Have you seen these hidden running boards for a X5?
 

Has anyone seen these hidden running boards for an E70 X5: AMP Research > Power Step Running Board

I saw these on a Ford pickup at the Seattle Auto Show and really want one for my X5. I've written the manufacturer, and I'll let you know what they say.

Anyone seen something like this from someone other than AMP?

You live in Puyallup...goto any off-road truck shop and they'll sell them and maybe even be able to work w/ you on finding a way to install them.

I saw those on a 2008 Ford Explorer Limited. They had been standard(?) on Lincoln Navigators for some time. Looks cool while they work. In places like Toronto when the snowfall can reach higher than the running boards I'm concerned that these will jam.

definitely a good concept - the vehicle isn't too tall (I'm 5'10") but I can still see myself using it everytime. I have admired it on Navigators for a while. They make it nice too since it blends in as a body panel.

The problem is that most of the American SUV and pickups are huge bodies w/ large overhangs on the frame, which is why they hide so easily. The X, or just about any BMW for that matter, have nice smoothly wrapping body lines where the rockers meet up nicely w/ flush paneling all the way to the framework. These could probably be mounted somehow, but I don't think they'd be nearly as hidden.

Most vehicles that have these installed as an option will need to be warm climate pavement vehicles. I have heard nothing but headaches with these in climates where you have snow, ice, salt/ sand etc. They will jam if they get too much dirt or sand/salt etc.

I'm 6'4", so i'd be happy w/ just the stock running boards.