BMW's First Plug-in Hybrid

BMW refers to its SAV (Sports Activity Vehicle) asThird-generation "X5"Now, the plug-in hybrid model "X5 xDrive40e" has arrived. While BMW already sells plug-in hybrid models under its sub-brand "BMW i" with thei8, this is the first PHV for a pure "BMW" model.

The X5 xDrive40e, which inherits technology and know-how from the i brand, is equipped with a 2-liter, 4-cylinder inline BMW TwinPower Turbo gasoline engine that produces a maximum output of 180 kW (245 hp) and a maximum torque of 350 Nm. This is combined with an electric motor integrated into the 8-speed automatic transmission, delivering a maximum output of 83 kW (113 hp) and a maximum torque of 250 Nm. The system's combined output is 230 kW (313 hp) with a maximum torque of 450 Nm.

With fuel economy of 3.4-3.3 L/100km (approximately 29.4-30.3 km/L) and CO2 emissions of 78-77 g/km in European measurements, the environmental impact is kept low for an SUV weighing over 2 tons. On the other hand, the significant power generated is handled by the xDrive system, as indicated by the model name, which is a full-time 4WD with variable torque distribution between the front and rear axles. This allows for 0-100 km/h acceleration in 6.8 seconds and a top speed of 210 km/h (limited), demonstrating impressive performance.

The 9.0 kWh lithium-ion battery is housed beneath the luggage compartment. The cargo space offers 500-1,720 liters, a reduction of only about 150 liters compared to the standard model's 650-1,870 liters. However, the optional third-row seats are not available, limiting the vehicle to a 5-seater configuration.

Charging can be completed in 3 hours and 50 minutes using a standard European household outlet, or in 2 hours and 45 minutes via BMW's proprietary charging station, the "BMW i Wallbox," which outputs 3.5 kW.

Dedicated Powertrain Setting Control

The X5 xDrive40e features a dedicated "eDrive" button for adjusting powertrain settings. In the standard "AUTO eDrive" mode, the system prioritizes electric motor drive, engaging the engine for speeds above 70 km/h or during strong acceleration, while optimizing the operation of both power sources through electronic control for maximum efficiency.

The next mode, "MAX eDrive," is purely electric, operating solely on the motor. While the top speed is limited to 120 km/h, it can travel approximately 30 km on a full charge. Finally, "SAVE Battery" mode is available to actively conserve battery power for later use. This allows drivers to proactively charge the battery while driving on the gasoline engine, for example, in suburban areas, and then switch to quiet, zero-emission electric driving in urban areas as desired.

In addition to these powertrain modes, the familiar BMW driving modes "ECO PRO," "COMFORT," and "SPORT" are also available, allowing adjustments to throttle response, 8-speed automatic transmission shift characteristics, and the standard Dynamic Damper Control.

Beyond the Dynamic Damper Control, the xDrive40e comes standard with rear air suspension featuring self-leveling control. The 2-zone automatic climate control system is equipped with an electric auxiliary heater and an electric compressor to ensure heating and cooling functions even when the engine is off.

Standard features also include "Cruise Control with Brake Function," "Driving Assistant System," and "BMW ConnectedDrive." Optional features include "Active Cruise Control with Stop & Go Function," "Driving Assistant Plus" (which includes front collision warning and mitigation), "BMW Head-Up Display," "BMW Night Vision System," "Lane Change Warning System," "Parking Assistant," "Rear-view Camera," "Surround View System," and "Speed Limit Info" including overtaking prohibition signs.

Navigation System Can Also Find the Most Fuel-Efficient Route

For styling, the X5 offers the "Design Pure Experience" and "Design Pure Excellence" package options, as well as the plug-in hybrid-exclusive "M Sport Package." A charging socket is located on the left fender, illuminated blue during charging and green when fully charged. The vehicle comes standard with 18-inch alloy wheels, with 19-inch and 20-inch options available.

As a unique feature for the plug-in hybrid model, the X5 xDrive40e's instrument cluster displays specialized information regarding charging status and drive modes. The control display on the center console, operated via iDrive, features an energy flow display that shows the interaction between the engine and electric motor, as well as charging and discharging status. It also allows for scheduling charging times and setting timers for climate control.

Similar to the "i3" and "i8," a dedicated smartphone app is available for remote control of battery status, climate control, and searching for nearby charging stations.

To maximize the benefits of its plug-in hybrid capabilities, the xDrive40e comes standard with the Navigation System Professional, optimized for this model. In addition to standard route guidance, it offers an "ECO PRO route search" function that calculates the most fuel-efficient route based on road gradients and traffic conditions. Furthermore, the hybrid control program utilizes navigation data to continuously optimize the powertrain for maximum efficiency.

The new X5 xDrive40e, like other X5 models, as well as the "X6," "X3," and "X4," will be manufactured at the Spartanburg plant in South Carolina, USA, which was built for the production of the first-generation X5. Although an official announcement regarding its introduction in Japan has not yet been made, there are high expectations for its sales in the Japanese market, given the strong support for hybrid vehicles.

BMW X5 xDrive40e
Body Dimensions: Length 4,886 x Width 1,938 x Height 1,762 mm
Wheelbase: 2,933 mm
Tread Front/Rear: 1,644 / 1,650 mm
Weight: 2,230 kg
Engine: 1,997 cc Inline 4-cylinder DOHC BMW TwinPower Turbo
Bore x Stroke: 84.0 x 90.1 mm
Compression Ratio: 10.0
Engine Max Output: 180 kW (245 hp) / 5,000-6,500 rpm
Engine Max Torque: 350 Nm / 1,250-4,800 rpm
Motor Max Output: 83 kW (113 hp) / 3,170 rpm
Motor Max Torque: 250 Nm
Combined Max Output: 230 kW (313 hp)
Combined Max Torque: 450 Nm
Motor Regenerative Output: 20 kW
Transmission: 8-speed Automatic (Steptronic)
Battery: Lithium-ion
Battery Capacity: 9.0 kWh
Battery Voltage: 351 V
Brakes Front/Rear: Ventilated Discs
Suspension (Front): Double Wishbone with Coil Springs
Suspension (Rear): Integral Arm with Electronic Air Springs
Drivetrain: 4WD
Tires: 255/55R18
Minimum Turning Radius: 6.35 m
Trunk Capacity: 500-1,720 Liters
0-100 km/h Acceleration: 6.8 Seconds
Top Speed: 210 km/h (limited), 120 km/h in electric-only mode
Max Electric Range (EU Cycle): 30 km
Fuel Economy (EU Test Cycle): 3.4-3.3 L/100km (approx. 29.4-30.3 km/L)
Power Consumption (EU Test Cycle): 15.3-15.4 kWh
CO2 Emissions: 78-77 g/km
Fuel Tank Capacity: 85 Liters