All upcoming BMW cars to get space for EV / Hybrid batteries

Last year, BMW announced that it would be developing a flexible architecture that would support fully-electric or plug-in hybrid systems along with internal combustion engines. Now, a media report reveals that the carmaker plans to leave space for batteries in all the upcoming models given the uncertain rules and regulations and demand for electric vehicles (EV).

BMW cars based on the new platform will have blank underfloor space for battery packs. The flat battery packs would come with scalable sizes. The Bavarian carmaker would also offer different capacity batteries depending on the model and trim levels. The performance-oriented cars in the company line-up would get a superior battery pack. These battery packs would also be incorporated in SUVs in the future.

At present, BMW has 2 platforms - CLAR for rear-wheel-drive cars like the 5-series, and FAAR for the front-wheel-drive cars. Both these platforms support a number of engines as well as an option for all-wheel drive powertrains. However, the company is uncertain of the future demand for electric and conventional automobiles. To play it safe, the carmaker has decided to develop a modular platform which would support both powertrain options. Developing separate platforms for these cars would be more complicated and it could cause capacity issues - under or over utilisation of one platform.

The new BMW platform is claimed to offer up to 100 km of range for plug-in hybrid models and up to 700 km for fully electric cars.

Source: Inside EVs