The BMW X5 xDrive40e is the first plug-in hybrid production car from the BMW core brand.
It combines the versatility and luxurious ambience of the X5, along with the superb traction provided by the BMW xDrive intelligent all-wheel-drive system, with BMW’s EfficientDynamics eDrive technology for outstanding efficiency.
The intelligently controlled interaction between the combustion engine and the electric drive, which together generate a total system output of 313hp, endows the BMW X5 xDrive40e with strong acceleration while simultaneously realising a substantial reduction in fuel consumption and emissions. It returns a combined fuel consumption of up to 85.6mpg, and a combined electricity consumption of 15.3kWh. CO2 emissions are just 77g/km.
The drive system of the BMW X5 xDrive40e comprises a four-cylinder petrol engine with BMW TwinPower Turbo technology, and a synchronous electric motor integrated with the 8-speed Steptronic transmission. The lithium-ion high-voltage battery pack can be topped up with mains electricity from any standard domestic power socket, or more quickly from the BMW i Wallbox, as well as at public charging stations. The high-voltage battery, which also supplies power to the battery for the 12V electrical system via a voltage transformer, is housed underneath the luggage compartment floor, where it is well protected in the event of a crash. With a capacity of 500 – 1,720-litres, the luggage area is barely compromised compared with other X5s. The standard charging cable can also be stored in a hinged compartment under the luggage area floor.
Short, everyday journeys in urban areas can easily be completed with zero tailpipe emissions, while actual fuel consumption is reduced substantially when driving for distances of up to approximately 15 miles in urban traffic. Driving in this way equates to an equivalent 94.2mpg, setting a new benchmark for efficiency in its segment. On longer journeys, when both engine and motor need to be deployed, the powertrain keeps the fuel consumption and emissions figures far lower than in comparable models with similar power outputs. Assuming the high-voltage battery is fully charged, daily commutes of up to 37 miles can therefore be completed with a fuel consumption of no more than 43.5mpg, depending on driving style. What’s more, when the fuel tank is filled to its 85-litre capacity and the high-voltage battery pack is charged, the BMW X5 xDrive40e also boasts the X5’s customary long-distance capabilities for travelling on holiday, for example, when it still succeeds in keeping fuel consumption above 25.7mpg.
Bespoke design touches on the exterior clearly identify the BMW X5 xDrive40e. The most noticeable feature is the charging connection for the high-voltage battery located in the left front wing. Blue light effects also appear here at the start of the charging process to indicate the flow of energy, while the exhaust system has a twin-tailpipe design with trapezoidal tips. Besides the model badge at the front of the vehicle’s flanks, the “eDrive” logo already familiar from the BMW i models graces the tailgate, roof rails, the doorsill strips with their blue background colour, and the centre console.
Apart from Dynamic Damper Control, the standard specification for the BMW X5 xDrive40e also includes self-levelling rear air suspension. The 2-zone automatic climate control that features as standard on all BMW X5 model variants is extended to include an auxiliary heating and ventilation system: this comprises of an electric instantaneous water heater and an electric refrigerant compressor which can precondition the car prior to driving. Other standard features include Xenon headlights, LED fog lights, an automatic tailgate, Dakota leather upholstery, heated front seats, and 40:20:40 split folding rear seats.
In addition to this, all of the optional extras from the BMW X5 range are available, with the exception of the third row of seats, the Adaptive Suspension Package Dynamic, Active Steering, the Multifunctional Instrument Display, comfort seats in the rear and the ski/snowboard bag. The Design Pure Experience or Design Pure Excellence packages available for the exterior and interior emphasise either the X5 xDrive40e’s robust, versatile nature or its exclusive, luxurious character. This model can also be ordered with the M Sport package and the bespoke features offered by BMW Individual.
The Navigation system Professional and DAB radio are another standard features. The cruise control system with braking function and the Driving Assistant, both likewise included as standard, is complemented by the wealth of BMW ConnectedDrive services, such as eDrive Services providing the driver with charging stations details, BMW Online Services and Real Time Traffic Information. There is also a whole host of options on offer, including: Driving Assistant Plus featuring Active Cruise Control with Stop & Go function, Collision Warning with braking function and Traffic Jam Assistant, the BMW Head-Up Display, the BMW Night Vision system with pedestrian and animal recognition as well as Dynamic Light Spot, Lane Change Warning, Parking Assistant, rear view camera, Surround View and Speed Limit Info including No Passing Info display. It should be noted that all driver assistance systems are also available when driving in all-electric mode. The Adaptive LED Headlights, Comfort Access, as well as the full selection of 19- and 20-inch light-alloy wheels, are also available to order. The BMW X5 xDrive 40e comes as standard with 18-inch light-alloy wheels in double-spoke design.
The BMW X5 xDrive 40e goes on sale Autumn 2015. Prices will be announced at a later date.
