Because the automotive world strikes deeper into electrification, new challenges have emerged. Chief amongst them is the practicality of long-distance journey, a hurdle that even the most effective EVs nonetheless battle to beat. However some automakers are trying backwards to go forwards, in a way. Enter: the EREV, or extended-range electrical car. The idea goals to mix the graceful, silent drive of an EV with the long-distance confidence of a hybrid — with out the compromises of both. EREVs might show to be a vital bridge for the trade as charging networks mature and slower-to-adapt consumers develop extra snug with electrification. Whereas BMW has already contributed closely to the EREV story, we’re not sure the model’s chapter has concluded.
The Precedent for a BMW EREV
Such a system isn’t solely new. BMW themselves experimented with the concept within the early 2010s with the BMW i3 REx (Vary Extender). That automobile featured a compact two-cylinder gasoline engine derived from a bike, which generated energy to maintain the small battery charged. The i3 REx was praised for its cleverness, however was finally constrained by its small battery and restricted efficiency. Notably in the US, the place vary nervousness nonetheless pervades the EV phase to at the present time. Bear in mind: with a spread extender, the i3’s vary almost doubled. A contemporary interpretation of an REx, constructed on at present’s developments in battery effectivity, thermal administration, and electrical drivetrains, might see much more drastic enhancements.
The Case For a BMW EREV
There are some far-off rumors that BMW’s trying into the potential of an EREV X5. Nonetheless conceptual, the EREV might make sense for some markets. Utilizing Neue Klasse tech, the electrical iX5 coming subsequent 12 months will already present stable vary figures. Whereas onerous numbers are nonetheless off-limits, we assume it gained’t be too far off in both course (up or down) from the iX3’s roughly 400 miles of vary (EPA; WLTP, 497 miles/800 km). Very conservatively, an EREV X5 might simply journey 800 miles earlier than requiring a cost and/or fill-up. Realistically, 1,000 miles of vary isn’t even a stretch. It’s apparent to see the attract there.
Strategically, a BMW EREV serves as a practical step between the corporate’s acclaimed electrical fashions and its conventional lineup. It acknowledges that whereas EV adoption is accelerating, infrastructure and shopper confidence haven’t but reached a degree that helps full electrification for everybody. An EREV might enchantment to drivers who need to embrace electrification with out surrendering long-range flexibility, significantly in areas the place charging networks are nonetheless growing. And, in fact, ever range-wary People. From a driving dynamics perspective, an EREV aligns nicely with BMW’s model ethos. As a result of the engine by no means drives the wheels, the electrical motors deal with all torque supply. That in flip ensures quick — and linear — response and really feel. Engineers might additionally fine-tune how and when the vary extender operates, making certain it runs solely at its most effective factors and stays almost imperceptible to the driving force.
Is a BMW EREV Actually Potential?
We’ll see. The upcoming 2027 BMW G65 X5 lineup is already unfold very skinny, promising hydrogen, EV, gasoline, and hybrid choices. Even when BMW doesn’t introduce a range-extended/EREV mannequin with that chassis, it’s hardly proof optimistic that the model isn’t trying into it. We already know automakers like Genesis are significantly evaluating the precept, going so far as to disclose the high-performance system on the firm’s “investor day” in NYC simply final month. Time will inform, however we expect BMW’s expertise with the i3 might make EREV tech a pure match for future BMW autos.
