Dec. 1, 2014—The BMW Group announced that it is preparing to offer plug-in hybrid versions of its core model vehicles.
In Miramas, France, on Monday, BMW will present a 3 Series plug-in hybrid prototype and a new generation of hybrid vehicle concepts incorporating technology already used in BMW i models.
Long term, BMW is planning to offer plug-in hybrid versions of all its core-brand models to meet stiffer emissions requirements.
The plug-in hybrid models presented in Miramas are equipped with a highly efficient internal combustion engine and an electric motor powered by an externally rechargeable high-voltage battery. Shorter-distance urban trips or commutes can be completed on electric power only. On longer journeys, the vehicle will usually operate in “combined mode”, with both systems working together.
The BMW 3 Series plug-in hybrid prototype combines a four-cylinder petrol engine with an electric motor. The internal combustion engine is based on the TwinPower Turbo four-cylinder petrol engine that has already twice been voted “International Engine of the Year”.
The electric motor and power electronics are directly based on the BMW eDrive technology already used in the BMW i3 and BMW i8 models.
