Automakers are betting on a new kind of EV with small engines inside, and one German giant may lead the charge

                                        https://www.carscoops.com/author/bradcarscoops-com/                                    

BMW might be ready to revisit an idea it once helped popularize: the range extender. Interest in vehicles that run mainly on electric power but carry a compact combustion engine to generate extra juice has been climbing, especially in China, and reports suggest BMW is preparing to join in once again.

While nothing has been officially confirmed, the company is said to be exploring range-extender versions of the X5 and 7-Series. Their generous size make them well-suited to house a small generator engine without compromising comfort or luggage space.

What’s BMW Planning?

Not only have range-extender vehicles been growing in popularity throughout China, but BMW likely sees strong potential for them in the United States. Speaking with Bloomberg, sources with knowledge of the matter say that the long-wheelbase vehicles that BMW sells in the US and China would be ideal for the new powertrain.

Read: BMW Says Its New EV Is In Such High Demand, Even They Weren’t Ready For It

BMW hasn’t commented directly on the report, though a spokesperson noted that the company is “continuously analyzing usage patterns, customer needs and market developments and reviewing the market potential of various technologies.”

If it moves forward, BMW could become the first German manufacturer to return to the range-extender formula, potentially nudging others to follow suit.

Why the US Might Bite

The American market for range-extender electric vehicles (EREVs) remains modest but is steadily expanding. Jeep has confirmed that the 2026 Grand Wagoneer will feature a range-extender setup, while Ram is developing an EREV version of the 1500. Hyundai, too, has one in the works for the Santa Fe.

Scout will also sell its upcoming Terra pickup and Traveler SUV with EREV powertrains, recently revealing that over 80 percent of orders have been for the range-extender, and less than 20 percent for the battery-electric version. Evidently, there’s demand for these types of vehicles.

It’s understood that BMW could quite easily make a range-extender powertrain without needing hugely significant investments. It already makes most of the necessary components in-house, including the batteries, electric motors, small engines, and transmissions.