BMW’s first plug-in hybrid SUV – the X5 xDrive40e – made its UK debut earlier this month. The BMW X5 xDrive40e reaps the benefits of the technology and know-how transferred from BMW’s i brand, with great efficient performance as well as all-electric mobility with zero tailpipe emissions when in eDrive mode.
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.
READ ALSO: FIRST DRIVE: BMW X5 xDrive40e
With a total system output of 230 kW/308 hp generated by the four-cylinder petrol engine with BMW TwinPower Turbo technology and the synchronous electric motor, the BMW X5 xDrive40e achieves a combined fuel consumption of 3.4 – 3.3 liters per 100 kilometers (estimated 55 MPG) and a combined electricity consumption of 15.4 – 15.3 kWh over the same distance.
The Lithium-ion high-voltage battery has 96 cells and a capacity of 9.0 kWh. The electric motor produces 113 horsepower. The X5 plug-in hybrid powertrain has a combined output of 308 hp and 332 lb-ft torque, allowing the luxury X5 hybrid model to deliver a remarkable performance.
The car accelerates from 0-62mph (0-100km/h) in 6.8 seconds. This is accomplished thanks to a max torque of 184lb-ft available from 0 rpm from the electric motor. Top speed is electronically limited to 130mph (210mph) or 75mph (130km/h) when running on electric power.
BMW X5 xDrive40e can go up to 13 miles of zero-tailpipe-emission pure electric driving.
In the UK, the 2016 BMW X5 xDrive40e sells for £52,105.
