BMW plug-in hybrids are about to experience a significant improvement in charging capabilities.
- The updated BMW i5 is expected to achieve an 8-9% improvement in efficiency due to several minor enhancements.
- The test cycle-adjusted range will increase by as much as 29 miles (47 kilometers), pending EPA estimates.
- BMW will also enhance the onboard charger for its plug-in hybrids, thereby reducing charging time.
However, the current version didn't meet expectations, and BMW has clearly taken that on board. Starting in March 2025, all i5 models will receive improvement that will increase overall range.
The updated models should see a hike of as much as 29 miles (47 kilometers) in range, thanks to a 9% boost in efficiency. Although BMW has yet to release official EPA ratings for the new vehicles, it's likely that these improvements will also impact the U.S.-market i5s. However, BMW has made no announcement regarding the availability of the wagon model in the United States, so those in the States shouldn't get their hopes up just yet.
Much of the newfound efficiency can be attributed to the silicon carbide semiconductors used in the car's power electronics. These improvements include enhanced thermal efficiency, enabling operation at higher voltage levels, better energy transmission, and overall optimization of the high-voltage components, resulting in improved overall efficiency.
The i5’s handling is outstanding for a vehicle in its respective class.
The 19-inch aerodynamic wheel and tire combination results in a WLTP fuel consumption rating for the single-motor i5 eDrive40 of 18-17.9 kWh/100 km (3.45-3.47 miles/kWh), and 19.5-19.4 kWh/100 km (3.19-3.20 miles/kWh) for the xDrive40 dual-motor version. These figures represent an 8% and 9% decrease, respectively. Keep in mind that WLTP estimates are generally on the more optimistic side, so actual performance may vary depending on the EPA cycle.
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According to reports, the new iX is 10% on average more efficient than its predecessor.
In March 2025, BMW will also start producing plug-in hybrids with an enhanced onboard charger. The X1, 2 Series Active Tourer, 7 Series, and XM will be equipped with 11-kW onboard chargers, compared to the previous 7.4 kW. BMW claims that this will lead to “significantly reduced charging times,” although the exact improvement is not specified. Currently, it takes approximately two and a half hours to charge an X1 plug-in hybrid's 18-kWh battery, so the new charger might enable a charging time of under two hours.