On the occasion of its 50th anniversary, BMW M GmbH presents the XM, the first high-performance car with an electrified drive system
The BMW XM spearheads the brand’s 50th anniversary model offensive and is also the first standalone BMW M model since the BMW M1. The exterior design of the high-performance SAV (Sports Activity Vehicle) pays tribute to the legendary mid-engine sports car.
The M Hybrid drive system in the BMW XM offers a total output of 480 kW/653 hp (generated by the combination of a combustion engine with 360 kW/489 hp and an electric drive system with 145 kW/197 hp). It is supported by a newly developed V8 engine, built for high revs, with the latest generation of M TwinPower Turbo technology. The 4.4-litre unit has a crossover exhaust manifold and an optimized oil separation process.
The eight-cylinder engine is assisted by an electric motor integrated into the eight-speed M Steptronic gearbox. At start-up, the engine’s propulsion power is instantaneous and provides a lag-free response to every movement of the accelerator. The M Hybrid drive system produces a total maximum torque of 800 Nm (the combustion engine can produce up to 650 Nm and is combined with an electric motor that develops a further 280 Nm). A pre-shift stage increases the electric motor’s maximum effective torque to 450 Nm when the transmission kicks in.
The intelligent interaction between the combustion engine and the electric motor provides a perfectly resolved driving experience worthy of wearing the M badge in any driving situation. It is characterized by an impressive power delivery that starts immediately and lasts throughout the rev range. The BMW XM accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 4.3 seconds, accompanied by an energetic soundtrack with an exciting tune that is unusual for an eight-cylinder. This is due to the sports exhaust system with electronically adjustable flaps and hexagonal twin tailpipes, which are superimposed for the first time in a BMW M model.
The M Hybrid button on the center console is used to select one of three operating modes, including electric mode for locally emission-free driving at speeds of up to 140 km/h with a range of 82-88 km in the WLTP cycle. This is achieved thanks to the high-voltage lithium-ion battery mounted under the car and the 25.7 kWh of usable energy it provides. The combined charging unit of the BMW XM allows charging with alternating current up to 7.4 kW.
The power generated by the pair of propellers is transferred to the road via the M xDrive all-wheel drive system, whose configuration gives priority to rear-wheel drive, which is especially noticeable in 4WD Sport mode. The driver can also select 4WD Sand mode, which is specially designed for driving on dunes and similar surfaces. The operation of the M Sport differential on the rear axle is also fully variable.
The BMW XM Label Red will be added to the model range in autumn 2023. The most powerful production car in the history of BMW M GmbH will have an output of 550 kW/748 hp (generated by the combination of a combustion engine with 430 kW/585 hp and an electric drive of 145 kW/197 hp) and a maximum torque of 1,000 Nm (generated by the combination of the torque of 750 Nm produced by the combustion engine and the 280 Nm developed by the electric propulsion system; preliminary values based on the current stage of vehicle development).
The exterior design of the BMW XM is a statement of exclusivity, elegance and performance. Modern SAV proportions, powerful lines, a dynamic elongated profile, typical M design elements, a new interpretation of the front-end design created for BMW’s luxury segment models and a host of distinctive details give the XM a particularly extroverted appearance.
The headlights divided into two independent sections, the grille with the BMW kidneys with gold edges and their illuminated contours, as well as the large air intakes are the features that define the front end.
As part of the standard equipment, the BMW XM is equipped with the BMW Live Cockpit Professional, which brings with it an M-specific version equipped with the latest generation of the BMW iDrive multi-sensory vehicle experience. It is based on the BMW ID8 operating system and has the BMW Curved Display which consists of a 12.3-inch information screen and a central information screen with a diagonal of 14.9 inches. It focuses specifically on touch and gesture controls, as well as communication using natural language.
The striking flair of the BMW XM’s exterior design continues inside. The cab and front seats are specially designed to provide an active driving experience. A generous sense of space, high-quality materials and an extravagant design transform the rear of the BMW XM into the exclusive M Lounge. Heated backrests that extend to the sides of the rear compartment and specially designed cushions provide passengers with luxurious comfort. The sculptural ceiling cladding is unique, with a three-dimensional prismatic structure, a photo-style border and 100 LED lighting units. There are four different trim options to choose from to personalize the interior, as well as new Vintage leather for the upper instrument panel and door panels.
Source: La Verdad
I am Ida Scott, a journalist and content author with a passion for uncovering the truth. I have been writing professionally for Today Times Live since 2020 and specialize in political news. My career began when I was just 17; I had already developed a knack for research and an eye for detail which made me stand out from my peers.
