BMW may broaden its electrified drivetrain lineup beyond mild hybrids, plug-in hybrids (PHEVs), and fully electric vehicles (EVs) to incorporate petrol range extenders.
According to Bloomberg, BMW is reportedly exploring the addition of petrol range extender options for certain electric models.
Currently, the automaker is considering introducing the feature only in its larger models, as these have sufficient engine bay space to house both a compact petrol engine and an electric motor.
If approved, the first vehicles to receive the range extender option will be the i7 and iX5, though the timeline for availability remains uncertain. The next-generation X5 is expected to launch in 2027, while the current 7 Series, introduced in 2022, is still in production.
In an extended range electric vehicle (EREV), the wheels are powered entirely by the electric motor, with the petrol engine used only to recharge the battery when it runs low or when additional power is requested by the driver.
This concept is not new to BMW, which previously offered the now-discontinued i3 hatchback in both fully electric and EREV versions.
The extended range i3 EREV featured a 25 kW, 647 cc two-cylinder engine sourced from the brand’s scooter lineup. However, on highways or steep terrain, it struggled to recharge the battery as quickly as it was depleted, since the system was intended only to provide enough power to reach a charging station.
In contrast, modern EREVs, such as those produced by Chinese manufacturers, use larger engines and are engineered for long-distance travel where charging infrastructure may be limited or inconvenient.
EREVs have gained significant popularity in China and are now attracting interest from European and American automakers as well.
Although BMW was among the early adopters of electric vehicles with the i3, the company did not pursue electric vehicles as aggressively as many other automakers.
Rather than rapidly rolling out electric-only models, BMW adapted its CLAR platform to accommodate EV drivetrains alongside petrol, diesel, mild hybrid, and plug-in hybrid options.
BMW didn’t introduce its first dedicated mainstream EV platform until this year. Called Neue Klasse, the platform made its debut with the latest iX3 and is set to underpin the forthcoming i3 sedan.
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