Based on the all-new third-generation X5, the concept is powered by a plug-in hybrid drivetrain that consists of a four-cylinder gasoline-burning engine and a 95-horsepower electric motor linked to a lithium-ion battery pack. Â Power is sent to all four wheels via an automatic transmission.
Full performance figures are not available, but BMW says the X5Â is capable of sprinting from zero to 62 mph in less than seven seconds with both power sources running. Â It returns 61 mpg in a mixed European cycle when driven conservatively.
With the battery pack fully charged, the X5 can drive on electricity alone for 19 miles at speeds of 75 mph.
A switch mounted on the center console enables the driver to select one of three driving modes: Pure Electric, Hybrid Drive or Save Battery. Â The latter puts the electric motor on standby in order to keep the battery’s full charge for a later time.
The high-voltage battery pack can be recharged by plugging the vehicle into a household power outlet, a wall-mounted charger or a public charging station. Â A purpose-designed smartphone application lets the owner monitor the charging process from a distance.
Bespoke 21-inch wheels, blue trim all around, model-specific roof rails and a fender-mounted flap that hides the charging socket set the eDrive apart from regular X5s.
Although billed as a concept, the X5 eDrive will likely be added to the BMW lineup as a regular production model in the near future. Â
The eco-friendly X5 won’t be the only global debut on the BMW stand in Frankfurt. Â The Munich-based firm will lift the veil off of the production version of the i8, a plug-in hybrid sports car powered by a 231-horsepower turbocharged 1.5-liter three-cylinder engine and a 131-horsepower electric motor. Â The i8 is expected to land in United States showrooms in late 2014 as a 2015 model. Â
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