The automaker that gave us the aesthetically challenged XM is mulling extended-range powertrains for certain electric vehicles. Although EREVs are currently prevalent in China exclusively, consumer interest for such vehicles in the West appears to be growing.At its heart, an EREV is nothing more than a battery-electric vehicle with an internal combustion engine that powers a generator. Said generator is tasked with recharging the battery, thus explaining the extended part in extended-range electric vehicle. Over in the United States, the best examples in this regard come from Jeep and Ram.
Bloomberg understands from people familiar with the German automaker's product strategy that EREVs are being considered, but only for electric vehicles with relatively long wheelbases. The best examples in this regard are the i7 and upcoming iX7, although the iX5 would also make sense as an EREV.
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