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Future models - BMW - X5 - REVReturn of BMW range extender a possibilityZF working with BMW on range extender tech for SUV models with X5 first: report16 Jun 2025 AS THE automotive world scrambles to find the best means of propulsion, be it internal combustion, battery electric, hybrid, hydrogen (fuel cell or combustion), or a mix, BMW looks like it could be bringing back the range-extender technology (REx in Munich dialect) first used in its quirky i3 hatchback model more than a decade ago.
The concept of range-extended electric vehicle (REEV) is not new but when the Chevrolet/Holden Volt (also known as the Opel/Vauxhall Ampera) and BMW i3 REx were released early last decade, it was an exciting development albeit ahead of its time.
In the years that followed the i3 REx launch, many car-makers decided to leapfrog the idea of REEVs in favour of battery-only models or focused on designs with smaller batteries and bigger combustion engines (plug-in hybrids).
Now, the range-extender is seeing a resurgence, with various auto-makers moving from petrol-propelled, electric motor-assisted hybrid setups to an electric-drive, petrol-generator setup.
The idea is simple: electric motors drive the wheels while a petrol engine acts as a generator to replenish the battery.
Unlike a petrol engine that provides drive, one acting as a generator can be smaller and operated only in its most efficient rev range, theoretically reducing emissions and fuel use.
China is at the forefront of REEV adoption and one manufacturer that took the range-extender plunge recently is Leapmotor, with its C10 REEV, while for some markets Mazda has introduced the technology to its MX-30 crossover.
A number of other auto-makers including Ram and Ford have also invested in the technology.
Now it looks like BMW, which already has runs on the board with REEV technology – even if it was shelved after being used in just one model – could be gearing up to use it in SUV models.
Reports from British publication Autocar indicate that senior BMW sources have confirmed a decision to revisit the range-extender technology alongside technology provider ZF.
ZF’s range extender technology includes its ‘eRE’ system that uses an electric motor with an integrated inverter and planetary gearset, as well as a higher-spec ‘eRE+’ option that gains a clutch and differential to make it suitable as an additional drive source.
According to the official ZF announcement, its range-extender systems are set for volume production in 2026.
The X5 is one of the most variably powered SUV models available, with a choice of petrol, diesel, plug-in hybrid and even hydrogen fuel cell (in prototype form) powertrains, and soon BMW could add REEV to the list.
Autocar also suggests BMW is considering a range-extender powertrain for the X3 and X7.
There is no indication as to whether the range-extender in the X5, and other X Series models, will replace plug-in hybrid options, nor have the rumours been confirmed by official BMW representatives.  Read more2nd of June 2025  Manic M2 CS gets big power bumpBMW has revealed its beefed-up M2 CS bruiser, due Down Under later this yearAll future models Alfa Romeo Abarth Audi Aston Martin BMW Bentley Chrysler Chevrolet Dodge Citroen Ferrari DS Ford Fiat FPV Foton Haval Great Wall Honda Holden Hyundai HSV Isuzu Infiniti Jeep Jaguar Lamborghini Kia Lexus Land Rover Mazda Maserati Mercedes-Benz McLaren Mini MG Nissan Mitsubishi Peugeot Opel Proton Porsche Renault Ram Saab Rolls-Royce Smart Skoda Subaru SsangYong Tesla Suzuki Volkswagen Toyota VolvoX5 pricing
Motor industry news GoAutoNews is Australia’s number one automotive industry journal covering the latest news, future and new model releases, market trends, industry personnel movements, and international events. |
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Motor industry newsGoAutoNews is Australia’s number one automotive industry journal covering the latest news, future and new model releases, market trends, industry personnel movements, and international events. |
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