In an attempt to help save the environment, auto manufacturers have begun to offer electronic vehicle options and the public has been paying attention. More and more, the demand for EVs is increasing which means that these companies will need to fill a need in the market. For the Electric SUV options, the BMW X5 and the Volvo XC90 are leading the pack.
According to the BMW Blog, BMW was the first on the SUV green train with the release of its X5 xDrive40e plug-in hybrid. Volvo soon followed with its brand new XC90 T8 Twin Engine. Both SUVs are spectacular pieces of machinery, but they take to the electric vehicle technology a little differently.
The BMW X5 xDrive40e sports a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, which is mated to an electric motor. Combined power output for the unit is around 309 HP and the unit can go from 0mph to 60mph in 6.2 seconds flat. While the electric and gas engines are working together, the vehicle can also do an estimated 22 miles per gallon.
On the other hand, there is the Volvo XC90 T8 Twin Engine, which has an entirely different setup. At the front of the vehicle is a 2.0 liter turbocharged and supercharged four-cylinder engine that powers out at 316 HP and 295 lb-ft of torque. It is also slightly quicker as it can go from 0mph to 60mph in just 5.3 seconds. However, it will max out at 21 mpg because of the unit's weight.
In terms of design, Recombu noted that the BMW x5 is still beefy and imposing just like its predecessors, but it did receive a much-needed facelift. Inside the vehicle is a comfortable and well-built interior and has cream leather interiors. Arguably, it is the better-looking option of the two.
On the other hand, the Volvo looks - but is not actually - smaller and is a lot less menacing. It does, however, sports Thor's Hammer daytime running lights, as well as a front bumper and single-piece grille that adds some meatiness to it. It is the simpler, more understated electric SUV and is reportedly provides a more technologically advanced feel.
In terms of space and people that can be accommodated, the Volvo XC90 wins it out. Because the design was created with a hybrid powertrain in mind, the company did not have to sacrifice its third row of seating. Meanwhile, BMW did in order to make room for its rear-mounted battery back.
But because the entire idea of purchasing an electric vehicle is how much more efficient and economical it is, the debate really stops with this. The publication reported that the BMW X5 has a 9kwh battery, which offers it about 19 miles on a single electric charge. With the Volvo XC90 T8, owners will get about 25 miles.
The publication continued on to say, however, that the BMW X5 is roughly US$10,000 cheaper than the XC90. Theoretically, interested individuals can opt to add in a larger battery in order to be at par with Volvo's offering. Other additional features are also likely to be available.
