BMW has revealed its plan to move towards hybrid technology for its future SUVs with the unveiling of the X5 eDrive concept. Marked for a public debut during the coming Frankfurt Motor Show, the eDrive concept features three modes of operation; all-electric, hybrid and save battery.
The three modes of operation are executed via a twin turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine coupled with a 96PS electric motor. The ratings for the petrol engine are not out yet, but the performance stats announced are enough to give one the impression that BMW has not taken a sedate route while conceptualising the X5 eDrive concept.
Dubbed as a SAV (Sports Activity Vehicle), the concept claims a fuel efficiency of 26.3kpl and an all-electric range of 30km. Interestingly the SAV can accelerate to a speed of close to 120kph of electric motor alone and in the process hit 100kph on the speedo in seven seconds.
Aesthetically, the hybrid X5 features a number of subtle additions to distinguish itself from the the standard X5. The kidney grille slats, air intake bars, and rear bumper inlay gets BMW i Blue paint for contrast while the 21-inch alloy wheels are more aerodynamically optimized. The car also gets special roof rails and Silverflake metallic paint.
Hybrid technology will most likely be a popular choice for many SUV buyers as it breaks the shackles that coin SUVs as gas guzzlers. With the recent introduction of the Range Rover Sport hybrid and the announcement of Porsche to develop a hybrid Cayenne shows evident signs for this changing trend. BMW is playing it smart by not missing out on a new segment that is mushrooming within the global automotive sector, but in an Indian perspective, hybrid technology still remains a distant reality as we lack the infrastructure and the right mind set that is essential for its adoption.
![BMW X5 [2012-2014] Image](https://imgd.aeplcdn.com/0x0/cw/static/oxygen/no-car-images.svg "BMW X5 [2012-2014] Image")
