The BMW XM will Feature 650 Horsepower and Around 30 Miles of Electric Range

• The first electrified M model will be a performance SUV powered by a V8 engine and an electric motor

• The battery will be large enough to provide around 30 miles (48 kilometers) of electric range

• The XM will have an exclusive M Adaptive Professional suspension

The BMW XM is currently testing on the open road ahead of its official debut towards the end of the year.

This performance SUV will be the first M vehicle to be electrified and the first standalone M product, meaning that there will be no equivalent sold under the BMW badge only, since the M1 of the late 70s.

Due to this model’s special place in the BMW lineup, special attention is being given to its powertrain and suspension in order for it to have the driving dynamics that are expected from an M badged vehicle.

The BMW XM will be powered by an exclusive plug-in hybrid powertrain composed of a new V8 engine and an electric motor, a combination that will be able to deliver 650 horsepower and 800 newton-meters (590 lb-ft) of torque to all four wheels through a specially developed version of the xDrive all-wheel drive system.

In addition to improving performances due to the instant torque delivery electric motors are known for, this powertrain will allow the XM to drive for an estimated 30 miles (48 kilometers) without using its gasoline engine, which will help its fuel efficiency, especially when driving around town.

In addition, the standard suspension system being tested for the XM is a bespoke adaptive setup called M Adaptive Professional.

This suspension system features adaptive dampers which are tied to the drive mode selector in order to provide a more comfortable ride or better handling depending on the driver’s mood.

For the first time in a BMW M model, the XM will also be fitted with a 48-volt electromechanical roll stabilising system which will eliminate the body roll in corners and on rough surfaces in order to improve both handling and comfort.

An active steering system and larger, M specific brakes are also standard in order to cope with the vehicle’s performances.

The design of the XM has not yet been revealed since the prototypes seen on the road are still wearing camouflage, but this should be done in the coming months since the XM is set to be launched towards the end of 2022, which will coincide with the 40^th anniversary of BMW’s M division.