BMW iX5 spotted ahead of US launch, sporting its new Double-X headlights

This one isn't about home energy upgrades, but here's the gist since it touches electric vehicles: BMW's new electric SUV, the iX5, was spotted testing in the US ahead of its launch in early 2027. It will come with a distinctive new headlight design BMW calls "Double-X," which folds the low beams, daytime running lights, side lights, and turn signals into a single unit. Buyers who don't like the look can turn off the "Double-X" icon pattern for simpler diagonal stripes instead.

On the technical side, the iX5 uses an 800-volt battery system, similar to BMW's newer electric models, paired with a 144 kWh battery in the US version. BMW estimates around 435 miles of range on a charge, with fast charging that can take the battery from 10 to 80 percent in about 23 minutes. It also supports bidirectional charging, meaning the car's battery can send power back out, for example to run camping gear or charge an e-bike. The dual-motor version makes 578 horsepower and can hit 60 mph in 4.4 seconds.

The iX5 will be built at BMW's plant in Spartanburg, South Carolina, making it the first fully electric BMW produced in the US. Pricing starts at $79,800 before a $1,450 destination fee, with sales beginning in early 2027. For homeowners with solar panels or backup power setups, the bidirectional charging feature is the detail most relevant to home energy planning, since it signals more EVs are being built to double as portable power sources.