BMW’s latest iteration of the M5 could have taken a radically different turn towards a fully electric future.Instead,the renowned carmaker has unveiled a potent 717bhp plug-in hybrid featuring a twin-turbo V8,much to the anticipation of its loyal followers.

　　Frank Van Meel,the head of BMW M,provided insights into the decision-making process behind the powertrain choice.Amid emerging trends like Porsche’s new 911 GTS hybrid and Mercedes-AMG’s C63 with its smaller battery setup,BMW explored similar avenues but found them lacking.“We could not make a convincing proposal with a small-battery,rapid discharge hybrid,”explained Van Meel.Instead,they opted for a plug-in hybrid system that consistently delivers electric power along with an impressive 69km electric range and an additional 200 horsepower.

　　The possibility of an all-electric M5 was also on the table.However,it was ultimately set aside due to current battery technology’s inability to adequately balance sustained track performance with the cruising capacity expected by M5 clientele.While an electric M5 would inherently be heavier—posing a significant design challenge—the new hybrid M5 is not exactly lightweight either,tipping the scales at 2,435kg.This puts it in the weight class of luxury vehicles like Bentleys and Range Rovers.

　　Van Meel is pragmatic about the increase in weight due to electrification,which adds around 400kg to the vehicle.“We wrote down the consequences of the weight and adjusted our performance targets accordingly,”he noted.Highlighting a motorsport strategy,he likened their approach to adding ballast in racing vehicles to improve balance—the M5’s battery placement in the floor lowers the center of gravity and enhances performance dynamics.

　　In comparison,Porsche’s T-hybrid system for the 911 adds just 50kg,whereas the new C63 is approximately 300kg heavier than its predecessor,despite switching from a V8 to a four-cylinder engine.Asked whether BMW considered a similar downsizing,Van Meel dismissed the idea of a four-cylinder for the M5,emphasizing the need for a more substantial engine to handle the impressive torque and maintain the brand’s hallmark driving emotion.“The V8 is the best solution.It is not only emotional but also compact,”he asserted,making it clear that for BMW’s M division,the blend of traditional power with innovative hybrid technology remains the most compelling path forward.