BMW X5 eDrive revealed

The new BMW X5 eDrive plug-in hybrid has been unveiled at the 2013 Frankfurt Motor Show, and should boast 74mpg fuel economy if it goes on sale in the next few years. Elsewhere at the show, Land Rover revealed its brand-new Range Rover Hybrid model as a direct competitor to the X5 eDrive.

The BMW Concept5 X5 eDrive is only a concept car for the time being, but is likely to preview a roadgoing model that will join the BMW i3 and i8, in the brand's line-up of electric and range-extending hybrid vehicles. The plug-in hybrid X5 eDrive gets a powerful petrol engine and a 95bhp electric motor, as well as xDrive four-wheel drive as standard. It is the most economical X5 yet, returning 74.3mpg and emitting less than 90g/km of CO2.

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Visually, the BMW X5 eDrive looks very similar to the forthcoming BMW X5, which was also on show at Frankfurt, and goes on sale in November. It gets the same kidney-shaped grilles at the front and identical LED daytime running lights. The subtle blue detailing at the front and rear hints at the car’s environmental credentials, while BMW has also fitted a new charging point just behind the front wheel. Other changes include new roof rails and unique aerodynamic 21-inch alloy wheels.

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The batteries for the X5 eDrive are mounted beneath the car’s boot floor, meaning practicality is virtually unaffected. As a result, the plug-in X5 should offer a generous 650 litres of boot space, expanding to 1,870 litres with the rear seats folded flat. These batteries will also allow the X5 eDrive to travel up to 19 miles on electric power alone.

Although the plug-in X5 is just an idea at the moment, BMW has high hopes for its super-frugal 4x4. It called the X5 eDrive “the next logical step towards landmark efficiency in the class”.

Along with the X5 eDrive, the brand-new BMW i3 has also made its world debut at the Frankfurt Motor Show. The i3 is a small family car designed to bring rock-bottom running costs to the premium hatchback market, and will cost from £25,680 when it goes on sale in November.

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