BMW Details New X5 Plug in Hybrid eDrive Concept
The vehicle uses BMW’s eDrive hybrid technology, has a range of 19 miles on electric power alone, and gets 74.3 mpg, based on the EU test cycle (3.8 liters per 100 kilometers), according to BMW.

The BMW x5 eDrive plug-in hybrid concept. The automaker plans to show this vehicle at the Frankfurt Auto Show. Photo courtesy BMW.

The BMW x5 eDrive plug-in hybrid concept. The automaker plans to show this vehicle at the Frankfurt Auto Show. Photo courtesy BMW.
BMW unveiled a plug-in hybrid concept version of its X5 Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV) that the automaker plans to show at the 2013 Frankfurt International Motor Show (IAA). The vehicle uses BMW’s eDrive hybrid technology, has a range of 19 miles on electric power alone, and gets 74.3 mpg, based on the EU test cycle (3.8 liters per 100 kilometers), according to BMW.
The concept eDrive system features a four-cylinder gasoline engine, equipped with BMW’s TwinPower Turbo technology, and an electric motor. The 95 hp motor is powered by a lithium-ion battery. The vehicle can charge from any domestic power outlet, according to BMW. When traveling on electric power alone, the motor can get the X5 eDrive up to a top speed of 75 mph. It also provides boost, allowing the vehicle to go from a stop to 62 mph in 7 seconds.
For driving modes, BMW said the concept offers the driver-activated Eco Pro mode, which engages when the vehicle starts and helps manage energy use by the hybrid system. The Proactive Driving Assistant feature in the vehicle works with the on-board navigation system to incorporate route, speed limits, and traffic into the driving mode selection. On the display, the range in electric-only mode shows as a numeric value and the system monitors factors affecting range, such as traffic conditions, route, and driving style, according to BMW.
BMW said drivers can also obtain vehicle charge status information via the Remote smartphone app from BMW ConnectedDrive. The app also allows the driver to pre-program the vehicle while charging, for example in order to control heating or air-conditioning.
BMW said that although the vehicle does have less cargo space due to the battery system, it still offers enough room for two large suitcases or four 46-inch golf bags. The back seat has a 40/20/40 split/folding design for added room.
More Operations

Managing Fleet Costs in an Era of Permanent Volatility
Fleet operating costs have risen more than 20% since 2020, raising a key question: When does extending a vehicle's service life stop making financial sense?
Read More →
The Next Evolution of Fleet Management: Autonomous Operations
This opening keynote session at the Fleet Forward Conference highlights the future of autonomous driving for fleets.
Read More →
How to Reduce the Total Cost of Risk From Catalytic Converter Theft
A stolen catalytic converter can cost fleets far more in downtime and lost productivity than in repairs. A total-cost-of-risk approach can help fleet managers quantify their exposure and prioritize theft prevention.
Read More →
Personal-Use Charges Rise as Vehicle Values Fall | AF News Recap
Personal-use charges are climbing, wholesale used-vehicle values are declining, and commercial fleet sales growth is slowing. This week, we're breaking down the latest fleet data, plus how Element Fleet Management is helping Waymo prepare for its first Canadian robotaxi market.
Read More →
Here's When You Should Make an Exception to Fleet Policy
Fleet policies are designed to create consistency, but not every driver or situation fits neatly within standard rules.
Read More →
AI-Native or AI-Acquired: What Should Fleet Managers Look for in an AI Platform?
Six questions can help fleet managers look beyond AI marketing claims to evaluate integration, data access, and real-world operational performance.
Read More →
A buyer's guide to fleet management software in 2027
Buying fleet management software in 2027 means looking beyond features and price. As fleet operations, technology and expectations evolve, this guide explores what today’s fleet professionals should consider when choosing a system that can deliver value now and adapt to what comes next.
Read More →
What Will Shape the Next Era of Fleet Management?
EVs, AI, and autonomous vehicles are reshaping fleet management. Discover what’s ahead—and how fleet leaders can prepare for the next era.
Read More →
How Fleets Can Recruit and Train Veterans for Technician Roles
Here's how the technician shortage has affected uptime for fleets, and what to do about it.
Read More →
Avis Budget Group Deploys Neology Toll Management Technology Across Major Brands
Neology’s neoFleet platform will manage toll transactions and toll-authority operations for vehicles across Avis, Budget, Payless, Budget Truck and Zipcar.
Read More →
