According to the latest report from the German media Automobilwoche, BMW is reportedly evaluating the mass production of a range-extended version of its iX5 SUV, internally known as the iX5 REx. This vehicle is said to achieve an impressive driving range of up to 1000 kilometers, courtesy of a small internal combustion engine that solely functions to charge the battery.
The iX5 REx represents BMW’s possible strategic shift in response to the growing demand for vehicles with extended ranges, especially in key markets like China. With the increasing popularity of range-extended electric vehicles globally, BMW’s move could be a significant step to regain market share in the electric vehicle segment.
The use of a small combustion engine as a range extender allows the iX5 to maintain a high level of electric driving experience while eliminating the so-called “range anxiety”. When the battery’s charge is running low, the engine kicks in to generate electricity, ensuring the vehicle can keep running smoothly.
Industry experts believe that if BMW decides to put the iX5 REx into production, it could pose a strong challenge to existing range-extended electric SUVs in the market. It combines BMW’s renowned engineering prowess with a solution to one of the biggest concerns of electric vehicle owners – range.
However, as of now, BMW has not made any official announcements regarding the production plan of the iX5 REx, and consumers and investors alike are eagerly waiting to see if this high – range vehicle will hit the roads in the near future.
