As the automotive world moves ever further toward electrification, new challenges have emerged. Chief among these is the practicality of long-distance travel, a hurdle that even the best electric vehicles still struggle to overcome. But some automakers are, in some ways, looking back to move forward. Enter: the EREV, or extended-range electric vehicle. The concept aims to combine the smooth, quiet drive of an electric vehicle with the long-distance safety of a hybrid vehicle – without the compromises of either. EREVs could prove to be a crucial bridge for the industry as charging networks become more sophisticated and buyers become slower to adapt to electrification. Although BMW has already made a major contribution to the EREV story, we are not sure if the brand’s chapter is closed.
The precedent for a BMW EREV
Such a system is not entirely new. BMW itself experimented with the idea in the early 2010s with the BMW i3 REx (Range Extender). This car featured a compact two-cylinder gasoline engine derived from a motorcycle that generated electricity to keep the small battery charged. The i3 REx was praised for its cleverness, but was ultimately limited by its small battery and limited performance. Especially in the United States, where range anxiety still prevails in the electric vehicle segment today. Remember: with a range extender, the i3’s range has almost doubled. A modern interpretation of a REx, building on today’s advances in battery efficiency, thermal management and electric propulsion, could bring even more drastic improvements.
The case for a BMW EREV
There are some distant rumors that BMW is exploring the possibility of an EREV X5. Whatever the concept, the EREV could make sense for some markets. With the new class technology, the electric iX5 coming next year will already deliver solid range figures. While hard numbers are still off-limits, we’re guessing the iX3’s range (EPA; WLTP, 497 miles/800 km) won’t be all that far off in either direction (up or down). Conservatively speaking, an EREV X5 could easily travel 800 miles before needing to be recharged and/or refueled. Realistically, 1,000 miles of range isn’t even a long distance. It’s obvious to see the appeal there.
Strategically, a BMW EREV serves as a pragmatic step between the company’s acclaimed electric models and its traditional lineup. It is recognized that while electric vehicle adoption is accelerating, infrastructure and consumer confidence have not yet reached a level that supports full electrification for all. An EREV could be attractive to drivers who want to take advantage of electrification without sacrificing long-term flexibility, especially in regions where charging networks are still being developed. And of course Americans are always cautious at a distance. From a driving dynamics perspective, an EREV fits well with BMW’s brand ethos. Since the engine never drives the wheels, the electric motors handle all of the torque transfer. This in turn ensures an immediate – and linear – response and feel. Engineers could also fine-tune how and when the range extender works, ensuring it runs only at its most efficient points and remains nearly unnoticeable to the driver.
Is a BMW EREV really possible?
We’ll see. The upcoming 2027 BMW G65 X5 lineup is already spread very thin, promising hydrogen, electric, gas and hybrid options. Even if BMW doesn’t launch an extended range/EREV model with this chassis, that’s hardly evidence that the brand isn’t thinking about it. We already know that automakers like Genesis are seriously considering the idea and even unveiled the high-performance system at the company’s Investor Day in New York last month. Time will tell, but we believe BMW’s experience with the i3 could make EREV technology a perfect fit for future BMW vehicles.
