The BMW iX5 reached 464 kW at the charger. The 10-80% charge should take 22 minutes.
On October 20, 2026, BMW publicly unveiled the fast charging capabilities of its electric iX5 for the first time. The vehicle achieved 464 kW, exceeding even the manufacturer’s claimed maximum of 460 kW.
The demonstration took place in Southern California at the IONNA charging station equipped with Alpitronic devices. BMW claims that the iX5 60 xDrive model, equipped with a 144 kWh battery, can charge from 10% to 80% in 22 minutes.
Peak power is just part of the story
The car is said to be able to regain up to 170 miles of range, or about 274 km, in just 10 minutes. However, the manufacturer has not released the full charging curve, so we don’t know how long the iX5 maintained around 460 kW. Peak power may only last briefly, and the overall charging time is ultimately determined by the average power throughout the session.
The event description also contains some confusion. BMW was supposed to test the iX5 50 xDrive version, but the figures of 464 kW, a battery capacity of 144 kWh, and other specifications have been attributed to the iX5 60 xDrive variant. The available information does not explain this discrepancy.
The new sixth-generation eDrive system uses an 800 V architecture along with cylindrical cells. According to BMW, the Gen6 system is intended to offer up to 30% greater range and higher charging speeds compared to Gen5. The manufacturer also claims a 20% increase in energy density relative to the previously used prismatic cells. These are currently BMW’s figures, not results from independent testing.
700 km range and production in the US
The BMW iX5 60 xDrive features two engines, all-wheel drive, and a total power output of 425 kW, or 578 horsepower. The torque is 593 lb-ft, around 804 Nm, with a 0 to 60 mph acceleration time of 4.4 seconds.
The estimated range is 435 miles, or about 700 kilometers, but the official EPA rating has not been released yet. The starting price in the United States will be $79,800, with sales set to begin in the first quarter of 2027.
This will be BMW’s first fully electric model produced in the United States. The plant in Spartanburg is expected to start manufacturing it by the end of 2026. The demonstration proved that 464 kW is technically achievable, but only the full charging curve will show whether the massive battery can indeed be fully charged in 22 minutes. We also do not yet know the sales plans for the iX5 in Europe.
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