Update: Someone just emailed me and stated that the car was spotted in Illinois as well, but didn’t know what to make of that bulge.

One of our readers just sent us in news regarding a BMW X5 Hybrid that was spotted in….Michigan. Yes, a little bit surprising since we were used to seeing the BMW test mules around California state, with most of them being tested in the Mojave Desert. 

The bulge on the hood gives it away immediately, but the Illinois license plate is very surprising. This is probably the first test mule that I have seen with a plate from the Land of Lincoln. Since we’re based out of Chicago, I guess I should keep my eyes open.

I still don’t have any more news on the X5 Hybrid models, but what I know so far is that at the last Geneva Auto Show, the german luxury automaker unveiled the BMW X5 Twin-Turbo Diesel Hybrid, a Vision Efficient Dynamics Concept, powered by a twin-turbo 2.0 liter four cylinder diesel that’s mated to a hybrid motor. The diesel engine produces 204 hp and 295 lb.-ft. of torque, but the addition of a compact generator increases power by another 20 hp and 154 lb.-ft. of torque. Power is sent through an eight-speed gearbox developed. 

Will we get a similar model or simply an all hybrid engine?

Thanks for the tip D.S!

[Source: Xbimmers ]