BMW is further expanding its range of electric vehicles with the introduction of two new combustion engine 5 Series variants that incorporate its eDrive 48-volt mild hybrid technology. These new models, known as the 530e and 550e xDrive, will be available for order in Germany starting November.
The BMW 530e sedan combines a four-cylinder gasoline engine with BMW’s eDrive technology, resulting in a total output of 299 horsepower. This model can travel up to 62 miles (103 kilometers) solely on electric power. On the other hand, the 550e xDrive sedan employs an in-line six-cylinder engine, delivering 489 horsepower and an electric-only range of up to 56 miles (90 km).
Both the 530e and 550e xDrive feature BMW’s eDrive system, which integrates an electric motor with an eight-speed Steptronic Sport transmission. This setup allows the plug-in hybrids to achieve an impressive combined fuel consumption of between 235 and 392 miles per gallon equivalent (1.0 to 0.6 liters/100 km) based on the Worldwide Light Vehicle Test Procedure (WLTP).
To optimize balance and storage capacity, the high-voltage lithium-ion battery is positioned under the 5 Series sedans’ underbody. With a usable energy content of up to 19.4 kWh, the battery can be fully charged in approximately 3 hours and 15 minutes. BMW has also implemented adaptive recuperation technology, enabling the battery to recover electrical energy while driving.
Both the BMW 530e Sedan and the BMW 550e xDrive Sedan come equipped with an array of standard features, including 19-inch light alloy wheels. Additionally, they offer BMW’s IconicSounds Electric system, which enhances the electric driving experience by providing acoustic feedback that corresponds to the accelerator pedal’s movements.
These new models join BMW’s existing lineup of electric vehicles, including the all-electric i5 and the upcoming hybrid version of the M5. The hybrid M5 is rumored to utilize a twin-turbo V8 engine in combination with a single electric motor, resulting in a combined output of 644 horsepower and 590 pound-feet of torque.
In conclusion, BMW continues to invest in electrification by offering a diverse range of electric vehicles and hybrid options, catering to the growing demand for sustainable mobility solutions.
