The BMW i3 and BMW i8 are the first zero-emission vehicles in the premium segment, being designed respectively as dedicated all-electric and plug-in hybrid models. Their BMW eDrive technology promotes hallmark brand driving pleasure, while at the same time delivering major reductions in fuel consumption and CO2 emissions – all the way to zero tailpipe emissions when operating in all-electric mode – and now the German car maker has revealed another concept that incorporates this new technology.
Combining a four-cylinder TwinPower Turbo petrol engine from the new Efficient Dynamics engine family with an electric motor, the BMW 3 Series plug-in hybrid prototype offers standards of sporty performance on a par with a conventionally powered BMW 3 Series six-cylinder model, combined with a significant reduction in fuel consumption. Its plug-in hybrid drive system has a combined output of approximately 245bhp and maximum combined torque of approximately 400Nm. These figures, together with the substantial extra acceleration provided by the electric motor’s boost function, bring a sharp and intensely dynamic dimension to everyday motoring. Average fuel consumption is approximately just 2 litres/100 km. In all-electric mode, the prototype is capable of a top speed of 120 km/h, and has a driving range of approximately 35 kilometres. At the press of a button, the driver can choose between different plug-in hybrid modes.
The MAX eDrive mode provides all-electric, zero-local- emission propulsion. Selecting the SAVE Battery mode keeps the battery at a constant state of charge. If the battery is less than 50% charged, the charge level is increased. In this way drivers can ensure they have enough power in reserve to operate in all-electric mode on a later, urban section of the journey.
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