{"id":64915,"date":"2025-06-06T12:18:07","date_gmt":"2025-06-06T16:18:07","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.globalvillagespace.com\/tech\/bmw-revives-range-extender-technology-for-next-gen-x5-and-beyond\/"},"modified":"2025-06-06T12:18:07","modified_gmt":"2025-06-06T16:18:07","slug":"bmw-revives-range-extender-technology-for-next-gen-x5-and-beyond","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.globalvillagespace.com\/tech\/bmw-revives-range-extender-technology-for-next-gen-x5-and-beyond\/","title":{"rendered":"BMW Revives Range Extender Technology for Next-Gen X5 and Beyond"},"content":{"rendered":"

BMW is making waves in the automotive world with its plans to reintroduce a range-extender (REx) drivetrain, a move aimed at enhancing the appeal of its electric SUVs. This comes at a time when charging infrastructure is still catching up in many regions, making the prospect of pure electric driving a bit daunting for potential buyers. The sixth-generation BMW X5 will be the first model to feature this innovative technology, and it\u2019s generating quite a buzz.<\/p>\n

Why is BMW Bringing Back the REx?<\/p>\n

The decision to bring back the REx technology isn\u2019t just a nostalgic nod to the past; it\u2019s a strategic response to the evolving market landscape. BMW has seen a significant uptick in global sales of REx models, particularly in China, which is now its largest market. The REx system is designed to alleviate range anxiety by providing an electric range of over 600 miles between refueling, making it a compelling option for those hesitant about fully electric vehicles.<\/p>\n

What Exactly is a Range-Extender?<\/p>\n

For those unfamiliar, a range-extender works by using a small combustion engine to generate electricity, which in turn charges the vehicle’s battery. This allows for longer distances without the need for frequent charging stops. BMW first introduced this technology in 2013 with the i3 REx, but it has been absent from their lineup since the model’s retirement in 2018. Now, with advancements in technology and a growing demand for flexible electric options, the time seems ripe for a comeback.<\/p>\n

What\u2019s New with the Upcoming X5?<\/p>\n

The new X5 will not only feature the REx drivetrain but will also be part of a broader strategy that includes the recently launched sixth-generation X3 and the upcoming second-generation X7, both of which are also being considered for the range-extender technology. All three models share BMW\u2019s CLAR (Cluster Architecture) platform, which has been a staple in their design for the past decade.<\/p>\n

Interestingly, BMW’s approach to the REx is evolving. The company is collaborating with ZF, a long-time component supplier, to develop a new range-extender architecture that promises to be more efficient and cost-effective. This new system includes two variants: eRE and eRE+, with the latter offering additional features that enhance its functionality. The aim is to run the combustion engine only within its optimal rev range, improving fuel economy and reducing emissions.<\/p>\n

How Does This Fit into BMW\u2019s Broader Electric Strategy?<\/p>\n

BMW isn\u2019t just stopping at the REx. The company is also gearing up to launch a pure-electric version of the X5 in 2026. This model will utilize the same sixth-generation electric drivetrain and cylindrical cell battery technology that will debut in the new iX3. The upcoming Neue Klasse EVs, which include the i3, iX3, and iX5, are touted to represent a significant leap in technology, featuring batteries that are denser and more efficient than current models.<\/p>\n

The push to innovate is partly driven by competition. Chinese automaker Li Auto has made significant strides in the range-extender market, offering models that boast impressive ranges. With Li Auto\u2019s sales surpassing 500,000 units in 2024, BMW is keen to reclaim its position in this competitive landscape.<\/p>\n

What\u2019s Next for BMW?<\/p>\n

As BMW prepares to finalize the specifications for the new REx drivetrain, the anticipation is palpable. The company is navigating a fine line between innovation and practicality, especially considering CEO Oliver Zipse\u2019s previous comments on the financial implications of combining large batteries with combustion engines. The X5 currently offers multiple drivetrain options, including petrol, diesel, plug-in hybrid, and hydrogen fuel cell, showcasing BMW\u2019s commitment to exploring various avenues in the quest for sustainable mobility.<\/p>\n

The big takeaway? BMW\u2019s return to range-extender technology isn\u2019t just about nostalgia\u2014it\u2019s a strategic move to adapt to market demands and consumer preferences. By focusing on flexibility and efficiency, BMW aims to provide solutions that ease the transition to electric driving. If you\u2019re considering an electric vehicle, keep an eye on these developments; they could make a significant difference in your driving experience in the near future.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

\"BMW<\/a><\/p>\n

\n Sixth-gen BMW X5 will arrive with electric power next year<\/p><\/blockquote>\n

BMW is set to reintroduce REx to its line-up to boost the global appeal of its electric SUVs<\/p>\n

\n

BMW is preparing to reintroduce a range-extender (REx) drivetrain to its line-up as part of a renewed push to offer pure-electric driving without the constraints of charging infrastructure \u2013 and its first REx model will be the upcoming sixth-generation X5<\/a>.<\/p>\n

Engineering work is claimed to be already well under way in partnership with long-time component supplier ZF and high-ranking BMW<\/a> sources say the decision to revisit the range-boosting technology comes as global sales of REx\u00a0models are gaining strong momentum \u2013 particularly in China, BMW\u2019s largest market by sales volume.<\/p>\n

BMW plans to deploy its new range-extender drivetrain in some of its most popular SUV models for markets where charging networks remain under-developed and buyer hesitation around pure-electric drivetrains persists. REx tech is expected to provide potential electric ranges of well over 600 miles between refuelling.<\/p>\n

In addition to the X5, a REx drivetrain\u00a0is also being considered for the recently introduced sixth-generation BMW X3<\/a> and the second-generation X7<\/a>, due out in 2026. All three models are based on BMW\u2019s 10-year-old CLAR (Cluster Architecture) platform.<\/p>\n

BMW is no stranger to range-extenders. It first offered the technology in a production model in 2013\u00a0with the i3 REx (pictured), which offered an optional two-cylinder petrol engine to maintain battery charge, but the firm has not rolled the tech out to any other models following the i3 REx’s retirement in 2018.<\/span><\/p>\n

\"\"<\/p>\n

BMW board members were this week\u00a0due to review the final specification with engineers, prior to signing the range-extender off for production, Autocar has been told.<\/p>\n

The decision would mark a change of heart for CEO Oliver Zipse, who told investors last year that the technology was too expensive. \u201cTo have a very large battery plus a combustion engine in there – there is a limit to the financial logic,\u201d he said. \u201cOur PHEVs are currently around the 100-kilometre [range] which I think is the perfect point where the customer says \u2018This is what I would like to pay for.\u2019\u201d<\/p>\n

The X5 is currently the only BMW to be sold with four different drivetrain technologies, including\u00a0petrol,\u00a0diesel, plug-in hybrid\u00a0and hydrogen fuel cell. The last of those is a low-volume model but has played a prominent role in the company\u2019s recent zero-emissions research and development activities.<\/p>\n

At this stage, it is not known whether the new petrol-electric range-extender will be offered as an alternative to the existing plug-in hybrid drivetrain used by the X5 xDrive45e\u00a0or whether it will supplant it.<\/p>\n

ZF\u2019s newly developed range-extender architecture consists of two variants: the eRE and eRE+. The former combines an electric motor, planetary gearset and integrated converter. The latter adds a clutch and differential, enabling it to serve as both a generator and a secondary drive source. Output of the combustion engine ranges from 148bhp to 201bhp.<\/p>\n

ZF’s eRE and eRE+ units can operate at peak efficiency, running the combustion engine\u00a0only within its optimal rev\u00a0range. This not only improves fuel economy but also reduces emissions and complexity, offering shorter development cycles and more affordable production than traditional hybrid set-ups.<\/p>\n

BMW is expected to combine elements of the ZF system with its sixth-generation electric drivetrain, which uses an 800V electric architecture. A key part of the development has involved leveraging experience from the experimental iX5 Hydrogen<\/a> programme.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/p>\n

Although hydrogen-powered, the iX5 employs a system that mirrors the REx format: a fuel cell acts as an on-board generator, producing electricity to charge a buffer battery that then powers the electric motor. The vehicle has no mechanical link between the power unit and driven wheels \u2013 a layout that BMW aims to replicate with its combustion-equipped range-extender.<\/p>\n

BMW engineers working on the project told Autocar that adapting a combustion engine for this new application is not as straightforward as it might appear.<\/p>\n

“It\u2019s not a simple case of taking the battery we use for our plug-in hybrids or pure-electric models and applying them to a range-extender,” said one source. “The cycling efficiency is different, as is the thermal load. In a range-extender, you have a continuous charging effect while the engine is running. The entire energy management strategy must be tailored for that.”<\/p>\n

However, the REx is not the only new drivetrain set to be brought to the X5. A new pure-electric version of the US-built SUV (seen here testing in sporting M-tuned guise) is planned for sale in 2026. It will use the same sixth-generation electric drivetrain and cylindrical cell battery technology that is set to be launched on the first of its Neue Klasse models, the second-generation iX3, later this year.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/p>\n

BMW says its upcoming Neue Klasse EVs, including the i3, iX3 and iX5, will represent a \u201cquantum leap forward\u201d in terms of technology compared with its current EVs. Chief among the upgrades for this next generation is a new type of nickel-manganese-cobalt (NMC) battery with cylindrical cells, which is said to be 20% denser and easier to package than modules (made up of square cells) found in today\u2019s ‘Gen5’ lithium-iron-phosphate (LFP) packs.<\/p>\n

The results, BMW claims, are a 30% increase in range, a 20% uptick in efficiency and 30% faster charging. Production costs are also 50% less, it has said, suggesting potential for lower prices in the showroom too.<\/p>\n

Munich looks to Li<\/strong><\/h2>\n

Among the key drivers behind BMW\u2019s decision to revisit the range-extender is the meteoric rise of Chinese car maker Li Auto. Founded in Beijing in 2015, it has taken a leading role in the technology and currently offers four models with a range-extender drivetrain: the L6, L7, L8 and L9 (below).<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/p>\n

Li Auto\u2019s global sales surged past 500,000 in 2024 and the company has set an initial\u00a0target of 700,000 for 2025.<\/p>\n

NMC battery technology for BMW’s new\u00a0range-extender drivetrain is said to be under development in partnership with CATL \u2013 the same Chinese-based automotive battery specialist used by Li Auto.<\/p>\n

All of Li Auto\u2019s existing range-extender models offer a range beyond 600 miles. The L9, which comes with the option of a 52.3kWh battery, manages\u00a0up to 731 miles on\u00a0the CLTC test cycle.\u00a0<\/p>\n<\/div>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":64916,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"Default","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[2,137],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-64915","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","category-featured","category-news"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.globalvillagespace.com\/tech\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/64915","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.globalvillagespace.com\/tech\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.globalvillagespace.com\/tech\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.globalvillagespace.com\/tech\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.globalvillagespace.com\/tech\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=64915"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/www.globalvillagespace.com\/tech\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/64915\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.globalvillagespace.com\/tech\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/64916"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.globalvillagespace.com\/tech\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=64915"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.globalvillagespace.com\/tech\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=64915"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.globalvillagespace.com\/tech\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=64915"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}