The next-generation BMW 5 Series model range is set to expand even further, potentially with the addition of two pure electric variants, sources told BMW Blog. The zero emissions pair is part of BMW’s aggressive transition into electrification tech, which will see the Munich automaker introduce 25 new models by 2023, of which more than half will be full electric.
Former BMW CEO Harald Krüger said last year that the forthcoming i4 and iNext models will utilise the company’s fifth-generation eDrive technology. “With the fifth generation of eDrive, our vehicles will be able to drive 550 to 700 kilometres on electric power, depending on the model,” he said.
The 5 Series electric is also expected to share the same electrical architecture, augmented by a large battery (possibly arranged in a T-shaped configuration for better weight distribution and low centre of gravity) that enable a driving range of up to 700 km. The two variants may be split down to one being a rear-wheel drive model, and the other a high performance all-wheel drive derivative.
Meanwhile, BMW recently unveiled the Power BEV, an experimental all-electric beast taking guise in the shell of the G30 5 Series (pictured above). Under the skin are three electric motors (one fitted over the front axle, and two at the rear) that produce a combined output of over 710 hp, allowing the BEV to sprint from standstill to 100 km/h in less than three seconds.
The rear motors are controlled separately, which enables e-torque vectoring, and at the same time provide maximum drive power to be put into forward propulsion even when the twists start to arrive. BMW says this setup provides a more effective and precise power delivery, with actively targeted inputs compared to a conventional limited slip differential.
It may all sound technically complex, but even so, BMW says the entire electric drive system can be packaged into a vehicle with no compromises in passenger compartment space. Watch out, Tesla!
GALLERY: BMW Power BEV
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When 330i local assembly CKD?
The automotive scene is getting a lot more interesting in the coming years. Gonna wait and see what they will bring to the table before making the switch.
Hardly a Tesla competitor. But a good move to accelerate the world’s transition to sustainable transport.
BMW is looking for sustainability, Tesla doesn’t seemed to be concern about this fact https://paultan.org/2019/07/25/tesla-posts-q2-loss-but-musk-certain-of-global-growth/