For enthusiasts of luxury and sustainability, BMW’s newest member of the 5 Series family could be just the fit. BMW is unveiling the 530e and its mightier counterpart, the 550e xDrive. Both serve as plug-in hybrid supplements to the fully electric i5 range, ensuring a blend of elegance and eco-consciousness.
The BMW 550e xDrive Sedan takes centre stage. Already open for orders, with production kicking off in November 2023, it’s presently confirmed only for Germany. Many BMW enthusiasts in the U.S. are hopeful it will hit the stateside! A specially designed electric motor for this hybrid setup resides both under the hood and in the transmission.
A 3.0-litre in-line six-cylinder petrol engine and the electric motor harmoniously integrate into the 8-speed Steptronic Sport transmission. This union delivers a remarkable system output of 360 kW (489 hp) and a peak system torque of 700 Nm (516 lb-ft). Simply put, this car boasts impressive agility.
The X5 gets BMW’s clever xDrive all-wheel-drive system. As a result, it impressively dashes from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in just 4.3 seconds. Even though its top speed is electronically capped at 250 km/h (155 mph), for enthusiasts seeking an all-electric cruise, it can smoothly glide at a commendable 140 km/h (87 mph). Furthermore, showcasing an electric range of 83 to 90 kilometres (49 – 56 miles) according to WLTP standards, the updated 550e enables drivers to relish in delightful, emission-free adventures.
In terms of recharging, the high-voltage battery sees notable enhancements, offering a heightened usable energy content reaching 19.4 kWh. Impressively, the maximum charging power has seen a twofold increase from prior models, enabling a swift 0 to 100 percent charge in merely 3 hours and 15 minutes. Remarkably, even utilizing a conventional household socket results in a complete charge in just shy of 12 hours.
BMW prides itself on indulging its drivers, and the 2024 550e xDrive Sedan stands as a testament. Standard features include Adaptive Chassis Professional and Integral Active Steering, encompassing electronically controlled shock absorbers and a lower suspension. This configuration boosts comfort in manoeuvres, agility at moderate speeds, and assurance in lane changes and rapid cornering.