BMW iX5 hits up to 460 kW during first public fast-charging demo

With up to 460 kW DC fast charging, the new BMW iX5 can add up to 170 miles in just 10 minutes. BMW proved it during a live public event for the first time.

BMW puts iX5 fast charging on display

BMW’s new electric vehicles are a step change from its previous-generation EVs. Based on its sixth-generation (Gen6) eDrive system with 800V technology, the setup delivers up to a 30% increase in driving range and charging speeds compared to the Gen5 system.

In addition to new, highly efficient electric motors, the Gen6 eDrive uses new batteries with cylindrical cells that BMW says provide 20% greater energy density than the Gen5 prismatic cells.

To prove just how fast it can charge, BMW put the new iX5 50 xDrive to the test during an international media event in Southern California with IONNA and Alpitronic.

During the event, the new iX5 hit a peak of 464 kW, even slightly higher than the 460 kW that BMW reported.

BMW said that with up to 460 kW peak charging, the iX5 60 xDrive can add up to 170 miles of range in 10 minutes. To charge the 144 kWh battery from 10% to 80% takes just 22 minutes.

While the results are impressive, 460 kW is the peak rate, not the sustained rate during the entire charging session. Either way, it’s still impressive and quick enough to get you back on the road quickly.

Plus, the US does not have the hardware to support 460 kW charging. Alpitronic supplied the hardware, and the demo was at an IONNA charger.

BMW will launch the 2027 iX5 60 xDrive in the US in the first quarter of 2027, starting at $79,800. Official EPA figures are still pending, but BMW estimates the iX5 will offer up to 435 miles of range with a 144 kWh battery.

It’s powered by a dual-motor all-wheel-drive powertrain, delivering a combined 578 hp (425 kW) and 593 lb-ft of torque, which BMW says enables it to go from 0 to 60 mph in 4.4 seconds.

The new iX5 is BMW’s first all-electric vehicle produced in the US. BMW is set to begin production at its Plant Spartanburg by the end of the year.