The next-generation BMW X5 will have the option of an extended-range electric vehicle (EREV) powertrain as this drivetrain type continues to gain popularity, especially in China.
EREVs have gained popularity there as they allow for primarily EV operation during regular commutes, and freedom from range anxiety and worrying about charging infrastructure during road trips.
According to Autocar, BMW is working with transmission specialist ZF on a range-extender setup for the new X5 large SUV with a target total range of over 965km (600 miles).
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Given the upcoming second-generation X7 will once again be closely related to the new X5, it’s no surprise BMW would also add a range-extender option to its flagship SUV.
The Bavarian automaker is also reportedly considering adding range-extender drivetrain options for the current X3 mid-size SUV. The next-generation X5 and X7, as well as the existing X3, are all based on BMW’s CLAR architecture, which supports mild-hybrid petrol and diesel engines, as well as traditional plug-in hybrid, and pure EV drivetrains.
If this report proves to be true, it will be the first time we’ve seen a range-extender option in a BMW since the demise of the i3 tall-boy hatchback (below).
In all i3 variants an electric motor powered by a lithium-ion battery pack was solely responsible for driving the wheels. For the now-discontinued REx (range-extender) variants, a 0.65-litre two-cylinder petrol engine making just 25kW and fed a small 9L fuel tank were added to the vehicle.
Whenever the i3 REx’s battery ran low or hit a preset level, the little motorcycle-sourced engine would sputter to life and recharge the traction battery.
It’s unclear what type of engine BMW is considering for the X5 range-extender. We also don’t know whether the range-extender option will be offered in addition to or as a replacement for the X5’s plug-in hybrid setup.
In a traditional plug-in hybrid drivetrain, both the electric motor can drive the wheels by itself or in tandem with the petrol engine.
The sixth-generation X5 was last spotted by our spy photography agency back in June 2024. From those photos we can see it has a nose heavily inspired by the Vision Neue Klasse X, which has angled headlights and slim double-kidney grilles.
With the i3 REx no longer available and the Mazda MX-30 R-EV never sold here, the Leapmotor C10 ‘REEV’ is the only range-extender vehicle currently offered in Australia, although Nissan’s X-Trail and Qashqai e-Power variants are also technically EREVs.
But a range of automakers are planning new EREVs, including Ford, Mazda, BYD, Genesis, Ram and Deepal.
MORE: Everything BMW X5
