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/62 miles), according to BMW.

by Staff

August 30, 2013

2 min to read

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/62 miles), 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 cluster display, the range in electric-only mode shows as a numeric value, which 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.

Topics:BMW Green Fleet

More Green Fleet

Turning Connected Vehicle Data Into Decisions That Matter

Fleet leaders have more data than ever, but turning that data into clear, actionable decisions remains a challenge. This white paper shows how leading organizations are using connected vehicle data to improve safety, reduce costs, and optimize fleet performance. Learn how to turn insight into action across your fleet.

Are You Tracking Your Fleet's True Total Cost of Ownership?

Bobit Business Media surveyed 190 fleet professionals and found that while most fleets are tracking costs, fragmented systems and data gaps are keeping true TCO visibility out of reach. With rising pressure to control spend in an increasingly volatile environment, the gap between what fleets think they know and what the data actually shows is wider than you might expect. See how your peers are managing costs today and where the industry still has room to improve.

Hybrids: Electrification Without the Challenges

For fleet managers, fuel is one of the biggest line items in the budget — and it's one hybrids can shrink without changing how your people work. Download the eBook to see the numbers, understand the technology, and get a step-by-step guide to making the switch.