Next-gen BMW M5 to get hybrid V8 power
According to a source close to the German company, BMW's M performance division will give the seventh-generation M5 a new hybrid drivetrain that will enhance its reserves to "over 700hp" and enable "limited electric drive compatibility." By 2024, the next-generation BMW M5 should be available in foreign markets.
- The engine will be a development of the present M5's 4.4-litre V8.
- Total output is projected to be in the 800hp/1,000Nm range.
- By 2024, the product will be available worldwide.
Next-gen BMW M5: what we know so far
The new M5 super sedan is one of a number of M models that will migrate from a traditional gasoline engine to a plug-in hybrid powertrain, resulting in increased power and performance.
With the debut still two years away, details are limited. However, our sister publication Autocar UK has obtained information indicating that, among other important mechanical modifications, it would use a rear-mounted electric powertrain.
The synchronous unit is said to work in conjunction with a further refined version of BMW's twin-turbocharged 4.4-litre V8 engine, which is utilised in today's sixth-generation vehicle – designated the S63.
The electric motor is expected to boost the M5's reserves by over 202hp and up to 298Nm, putting it somewhere around 800hp and over 1,000Nm of torque. The Concept XM, which previews a production car arriving next year, boasts 750 horsepower thanks to a similar setup.
Drive will be channelled through an 8-speed torque-converter automatic gearbox with steering wheel-mounted shift paddles, similar to the BMW M5, while a fully variable xDrive four-wheel drive system will deliver a distinct rear-biased apportioning of power in the car's more performance-oriented driving modes.
Early prototype versions of the next M automobile are rumoured to employ a lithium-ion battery with a capacity similar to that of the BMW 545e xDrive, which has a capacity of 12.0kWh. It's hidden beneath the back seat and runs on 354V and can be charged at up to 11kW.
It's unclear whether it'll be used in production versions of the forthcoming M5, while there are rumours that BMW M is working on its own performance battery with ultra-rapid discharge capabilities.
After rival Mercedes-AMG unveiled the GT63 E-Performance 4Matic+, BMW decided to give the M5 hybrid power. The AMG has a twin-turbocharged 4.0-litre V8 engine that produces 843hp and 1,400Nm when coupled with a rear-mounted electric motor.
According to recent media reports, BMW M plans to equip the upcoming M5 with a pure-electric drivetrain. Despite the fact that this has been ruled out, Autocar UK reports that BMW M is designing its own version of the future i5 EV saloon, dubbed the i5 M60.
BMW India: upcoming launches
In December, BMW unveiled the all-electric iX SUV, which costs Rs 1.16 crore (ex-showroom). The base xDrive 40 variant of the Jaguar I-Pace and Audi e-tron rival has a claimed range of up to 425 kilometres.
In the future, the German automaker plans to expand its electric vehicle lineup by introducing the all-electric i4 sedan in the coming months. BMW will also unveil the facelifted X3 SUV soon, while sister company Mini will debut the all-electric SE hatchback — orders for both are now open.
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