BMW was a pioneer in the EV segment with range-extra engines. The i3 Rex debut with an optional two -cylinder engine over a decade ago. Borrowed from the motorcycle division, the compact 647 CC gas engine was adapted as a generator for charging the battery. It was a unique solution because the packaging in another model was never replicated.
A new report from Autocar suggests that the range-coppering engine could make a comeback. The British publication quotes sources that are familiar with the plans of BMW and indicate a new system that was put together with the ZF supplier. According to reports, the technology is intended for SUVs and could debut in the X5 of the next generation (shown here)Cod name “G65”.
The technology of the next generation can also be used in the “G67”. The three-row SUV is scheduled to come onto the market in the second half of 2027. Even the current X3, which is known internally as “G45”, is assumed as a candidate for REX treatment, although this probably does not happen until his mid-cycle facelift. The LCI is expected to arrive at the end of 2028.
The new Range-Extra gas engine would only run with its optimal speed to maximize efficiency. It could be combined with BMW batteries, especially if you consider that the all-electric IX5 will use the debut of the gene6 pack in the new class IX3 this year. These cylindrical cells offer 20% higher energy density and an increase in the area by 30% compared to today’s prismatic batteries. In combination with the Rex, this should practically eliminate the fear of reach in large SUVs such as X5 and X7.
The X5 has an exceptionally diverse drive train line-up: petrol, diesel, plug-in hybrid, battery electrics, hydrogen fuel cell and now this rumored area that combines a gas engine with batteries. It is unlikely that BMW will offer all versions worldwide. Instead, it will adapt the availability to the availability based on regional demand.
For example, in China Range Extenders in China, popularity is obtained. The revived Scout brand from Volkswagen will present the technology in the USA in the upcoming Terra Pickup and the Harvester SUV. VW’s core brand also plans to start EVS, which starts extensive electric vehicles in China and possibly other regions. The upcoming scalable system platform (SSP) will support EVS, which are equipped with a combustion engine that acts as a generator.
It remains unclear how much an X5 would cost with a range, although it is probably rated between the plug-in hybrid and the fully electrical IX5.
