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BMW is to launch a plug-in hybrid version of its big-selling X5 SUV later this year.
The X5 xDrive40e is expected in showrooms in the autumn, at prices and specifications yet to be confirmed.
BMW claims combined cycle fuel economy figures of 85.6mpg, along with CO2 emissions of 77g/km while the performance, notably the 6.8-second 0-62mph time, matches one of the most popular X5 models, the 30d diesel.
The X5 xDrive40e uses the PHEV (Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle) technology previously seen in BMW’s i3 electric vehicle. The motor is mounted in the eight-speed automatic gearbox, and can power the vehicle on electric propulsion alone for up to 15 miles at speeds up to 75 mph.
The X5 xDrive40e’s powertrain produces 309bhp, along with 450NM of torque, by means of a four cylinder 2.0-litre petrol engine of 245PS with an 113PS electric motor.
Three driving modes are available – in Max eDrive the car runs on electric power alone, in Auto eDrive the electric motor and petrol engine combine, and in Save Battery the electric power is stored for later use in low-emission areas, such as city centres.
The lithium-ion battery pack is mounted in the boot, reducing bootspace by 150 litres to 500 litres, and according to BMW full charging time using a conventional domestic power socket will take around three hours 50 minutes, but this can be cut to two hours and 45 minutes using BMW’s own wallbox.
