German luxury car maker BMW is preparing to extend its electric vehicle (EV) offerings by introducing two fresh iterations of its 5 Series, dubbed the 530e and 550e xDrive featuring innovative eDrive 48-volt mild hybrid technology.

Anticipated with excitement, the launch of the BMW 530e and 550e xDrive PHEVs is slated for November this year. Customers in the manufacturer's home country of Germany can already place their orders for these eagerly-anticipated vehicles. This marks a notable step in the luxury brand’s continued commitment to expand its EV lineup.

The BMW 530e sedan has been equipped with a potent powertrain, which combines a four-cylinder gasoline engine with the brand’s in-house, cutting-edge eDrive technology to deliver 299 horsepower (hp). What is even more remarkable is the vehicle’s electric-only range, which can reach up to 62 miles (roughly 103 km) on a single charge.

The BMW 550e xDrive sedan takes it up a notch with a six-cylinder engine that is capable of churning out an impressive 489 hp, along with electric-only range of up to 56 miles (approx. 90 km).

Both of the aforementioned models incorporate the brand’s highly efficient eDrive unit, which integrates an electric motor (e-motor) with an eight-speed Steptronic Sport transmission. This innovative setup enables these PHEVs to achieve an impressive combined fuel consumption range of 235 to 392 miles per gallon (equivalent to 1.0 to 0.6 liters per 100 km) on the WLTP cycle.

BMW tries to optimize weight distribution and storage capacity by strategically positioning the high-voltage lithium-ion battery beneath the sedan’s underbody. This battery promises a usable energy capacity of up to 19.4 kWh and it takes approx. 3 hours and 15 minutes to get fully recharged. Additionally, the manufacturer has implemented adaptive recuperation technology that allows the battery to recover electrical energy while driving to enhance overall efficiency.

Both models come generously equipped, incorporating BMW's IconicSounds Electric system and featuring superior 19-inch light alloy wheels. The IconicSounds Electric system provides acoustic feedback that syncs with the accelerator pedal’s movements, enhancing the electric driving experience and adding to the general appeal of these hybrid vehicles.

The BMW 530e and 550e xDrive models represent the latest additions to the German brand’s eighth-generation 5 Series platform. These hybrid offerings are going to expand the lineup, catering to eco-conscious drivers’ diverse range of preferences. Additionally, the all-electric i5, which made its debut earlier this year, further highlights the brand’s commitment to providing a comprehensive spectrum of sustainable mobility options.