BMW X5 to gain range-extender EV option – report

The next-generation BMW X5 will have the option of a range extender EV as this drivetrain continues to gain popularity, especially in China.

Range extenders 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 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 will also add a range extender option to its flagship SUV.

The Bavarian automaker is also considering adding range extender drivetrain options to the current X3. 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 range extender option in a BMW since the demise of the i3 tall-boy hatchback (below).

In all i3 models an electric motor powered by a lithium-ion battery pack was solely responsible for driving the wheels. For the REx (range extender) variants a 0.65L two-cylinder petrol engine making just 25kW, and a small 9L fuel tank were added to the vehicle.

Whenever the i3’s battery ran low or hit a preset level, the little petrol engine would sputter to life and recharge the traction battery.