A fully-electric BMW 5-Series seems like a very long stretch right now. However, if this latest rumor turns out to be correct, then we can expect such a version to co-exist alongside BMW’s next generation 5er.
Expected to arrive in 2023, the successor of the outgoing G3X will reportedly get at least two electric drivetrains, according to BMWBlog, quoting insiders. Also rumored is the fifth-gen eDrive tech found in the i4 and iNext.
The publication thinks the alleged electric 5-Series will get both rear-wheel and all-wheel drive versions, plus battery packs producing anywhere between 60-80 kWh, providing it with a range of at least 300 miles (483 km). Upper grades might be able to travel for up to 435 miles (700 km) on a single charge.
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Giving the 5er battery-electric power will fall in hand with the company’s plans of electrifying the range. CEO Harald Kruger confirmed that plans of offering 25 electrified models by 2025, with more than half being electric, have been moved for 2023.
With the unveiling of the Power BEV last month, BMW might have tested the waters for an electric 5-Series. The concept is equipped with the fifth-gen electric drive, enjoying a massive output of 710 hp (720 PS / 530 kW). Performance wise, it’s on the same level with some of the best supercars of the moment, needing less than 3 seconds to accelerate to 62 mph (100 km/h), while retaining the practicality and comfort of a car in this class.
Until the next-gen 5-Series will be unveiled, the automaker is prepping a mid-cycle refresh. The facelifted iteration is currently undergoing testing and should be presented later this year or in 2020.
Note: BMW Power BEV pictured
