BMW is reportedly working on new internal combustion engines for its SUVs.
Despite investing heavily in electrification, BMW has no intention of abandoning the internal combustion engine (ICE). According to a report in the German newspaper Handelsblatt , BMW plans to launch new ICE-powered vehicles in 2027.
New range of internal combustion engines for the X-Series models
According to company insiders, the new gasoline engines will be available for the X-Series model range, which includes vehicles like the US-built X3 and X5. The company's CEO, Oliver Zipse , has shared his thoughts on a complete ICE ban in the past, noting that abandoning the technology could hamper the growth of the auto industry.
BMW will continue to offer internal combustion engine vehicles alongside electric vehicles.
Although BMW is investing in electrification, its strategy is to offer one vehicle lineup for all markets, meaning that internal combustion engine vehicles will continue to be sold in markets where they are permitted. While this strategy may make sense from a business perspective, it has not been well received by environmentalists.
New internal combustion engines with reduced emissions
Last year, BMW's Frank Weber noted that the company is working on a series of traditional engines with significantly reduced emissions. This means they will comply with increasingly stringent legislation and extend the life of the ICE.
Internal combustion engines needed for markets where electric vehicles are not viable
It's important to note that both Rolls-Royce and Mini have committed to going fully electric by 2030. However, BMW will have to retain internal combustion engines if it wants to survive in the global market, especially in those markets where electric vehicles aren't viable.
Internal combustion engines in new Neue Klasse vehicles
These new internal combustion engines will likely be fitted to upcoming Neue Klasse models, designed to accommodate electric, combustion, and even hydrogen powertrains. The company's iconic straight-six and V8 engines are likely to survive a little longer thanks to electrification, but are expected to be phased out long before the three- and four-cylinder engines.
