The BMW 3 Series plug-in hybrid has been revealed as a prototype as BMW gears up to deliver performance plug-ins. Gets 242bhp and 295lb/ft of torque.
BMW 3 Series plug-in hybrid prototype revealed
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We’ve already seen a BMW X5 eDrive plug-in hybrid concept , but now BMW are getting serious with their plug-ins and planning a range of plug-in hybrids to offer decent performance and big reductions in official economy figures.
Pictured with camouflage at the front and back (because it also previews a 3 Series facelift), the 3 Series plug-in hybrid gets a 2.0 litre petrol engine combined with an electric motor for a combined output of 242bhp and 295lb/ft of torque, enough, say BMW, for sporty performance on a par with a six-cylinder 3 Series but with official economy of 140mpg and just 50g/km emissions.
The lithium-ion battery pack – lurking under the boot floor – can be charged with a domestic socket and on the go through regenerative energy and offers a driving range on batteries only of up to 22 miles.
The 3 Series plug-in comes with a Driving experience Control switch which offers three different modes – Comfort, Sport and Eco Pro – delivering different suspension, shift characteristics and hybrid operating strategies, as well as a hybrid-adapted Proactive Driving Assistant that use the SatNav to manage the powertrain based on its current state and that of the road ahead.
All clever stuff, and heading for a BMW showroom near you before too long (well, by 2016).
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