With the BMW Concept X5 eDrive model—first presented last September at the Frankfurt Auto Show, BMW Group highlighted how their Sports Activity Vehicles can be made more efficient. For the first time, the public was introduced to an SAV concept model that combined the BMW xDrive intelligent all-wheel-drive system with an innovative BMW plug-in hybrid system. It looks like BMW will be bringing us the production version before too long and that it will be called the BMW X5 eDrive
This combination of xDrive and eDrive will not only give the BMW X5 eDrive a typical BMW performance personality but also efficiency and eco-friendliness. With the boost function of the electric motor, the X5 can deliver powerful acceleration—0 to 60 mph in under seven seconds. The development goal for this model is to achieve an average fuel consumption of approximately 88 mpg in the EU test cycle, and CO2 emissions of 90 grams per kilometer—new benchmarks in this vehicle category. The X5 eDrive would also be capable of all-electric operation for over 18 miles. In this mode, of course, there would be no emissions at all coming from the vehicle.
Thanks to perfect synchronization of BMW eDrive technology with the intelligent BMW xDrive all-wheel-drive system, the drive torque from the electric motor, the four-cylinder gasoline engine, or both power sources operating in tandem can be split in a variable ratio between the front and rear wheels. The split is automatically controlled to provide superior traction, optimal stability, and maximum agility and performance under all conditions. At the same time the vehicle delivers the customary luxurious driving experience expected of the BMW X5, as well as high standards of driveability around town and on the highway.
The future BMW X5 eDrive will use a state-of-the-art four-cylinder gasoline engine from the new Efficient Dynamics engine range with TwinPower Turbo technology. This demonstrates the BMW Group’s overall goal of providing a customized electric mobility solution in every model series.—Scott Blazey
