BMW Revives Range Extender Tech for iX5 SUV by 2026

BMW is set to reintroduce range extender technology with the iX5 SUV, a model already in testing and slated for a potential 2026 release, according to a report by Auto News. This move marks a strategic pivot for the German automaker, which previously dismissed the technology’s future in 2019, and reflects growing demand for extended-range electric vehicles (EREVs) in key markets like China, North America, and Europe.

What Is Range Extender Technology?

EREVs combine a battery and electric motor with a combustion engine that serves as a generator, extending driving range without directly powering the wheels. BMW’s iX5 Rex, as the range-extended variant is internally called, aims for a total range of 621 miles (1,000 km), addressing range anxiety for drivers in regions with limited charging infrastructure. The system, developed in collaboration with German supplier ZF Friedrichshafen, builds on BMW’s earlier experience with the i3, which offered a range extender until its discontinuation in 2019.

Why the Shift in Strategy?

BMW’s renewed interest in EREVs aligns with industry trends and evolving consumer needs. In China, EREV sales surged nearly 50% through May 2025, per the China Passenger Car Association, driven by brands like Li Auto. In North America and Europe, where battery electric vehicle (BEV) sales are rising but charging networks lag, EREVs offer a practical bridge. “There are still a number of people for which pure EVs don’t work because they don’t have a charger nearby or they don’t want to spend a lot of time waiting for the vehicle to charge,” said Pedro Pacheco, Gartner Vice President of Research, in the Automobilwoche report.

BMW’s spokesperson emphasized adaptability, stating, “We continuously analyze usage patterns, customer needs, and market developments and review the market potential of various technologies.” This flexibility positions BMW to compete with European rivals like Volkswagen Group, Stellantis, and Ford, all of which are exploring EREV technology, and to challenge Mazda’s MX-30 e-Skyactiv R-EV and Stellantis-backed Leapmotor in Europe.

Technical and Market Implications

The iX5 Rex’s 621-mile range could set a new benchmark for EREVs, offering significant operational benefits for long-distance drivers and fleets. By integrating a combustion engine as a generator, the vehicle maintains electric drive efficiency while eliminating the need for frequent charging stops—a key advantage in rural or underdeveloped areas. Economically, EREVs may appeal to consumers hesitant to invest in full EVs due to higher upfront costs or infrastructure concerns, potentially broadening BMW’s market reach.

Regulatory landscapes also play a role. In Europe, stricter CO2 emissions targets push automakers toward electrification, but EREVs can qualify for incentives while offering combustion-engine familiarity. In the U.S., where federal EV tax credits and state policies vary, EREVs could attract buyers seeking versatility without sacrificing electric performance.

Olhando para o futuro

BMW’s revival of range extender technology signals a pragmatic response to diverse market demands and infrastructure realities. As testing progresses on the iX5 Rex, the industry watches closely to see how BMW balances performance, cost, and emissions in this next-generation EREV. With competitors ramping up similar efforts, the race to deliver flexible, long-range electric solutions is heating up, promising more options for EV enthusiasts and practical buyers alike.