BMW kicks off Australian PHEV initiative

BMW Australia has announced it will introduce its first pair of non-‘i’-branded plug-in hybrid models simultaneously this year, with both the 330e sedan and X5 xDrive40e large SUV launching the company's eDrive hybrid program in May.

While the more exclusive i8 sportscar and i3 small hatchback pioneered plug-in power for BMW in Australia, the next brace of PHEVs will be the first to fall under the company's eDrive banner, which is ultimately set to spread through all model lines.

Following the first 3 Series and X5-based variants, a 7 Series and 2 Series Active Tourer are the most likely second wave, but BMW is staying tight lipped on any future eDrive models.

Of the pair, the X5 is expected to be the more popular eDrive option given Australia's demand for SUVs of all shapes and sizes, but BMW has not made any sales predictions for either model.

The premium SUV uses BMW's TwinPower 2.0-litre petrol four-cylinder engine with an output of 180kW/350Nm combined with an 83kW/250Nm electric motor that draws power from a 9kWh lithium-ion battery.

When in a hurry, the total 230kW/450Nm output can accelerate the xDrive40e to from zero to 100km/h in 6.8 seconds, and can use as little as 3.3 litres of fuel per 100km when driven more sedately on the combined cycle.

In pure electric mode, the X5 has a range of about 31km, while the 330e sedan can go for up to 37km before having to either fire up its 135kW/290Nm petrol engine, or find an electrical socket or i Wallbox to plug in to.

Like the X5, the 3 Series-based PHEV also combines an electric motor with petrol power for a total of 185kW and 420Nm, which can either shoot the 330e to 100km/h in 6.1 seconds or sip 2.1 litres of petrol per 100km with less lead in your toe.

BMW says the 330e is the driver's pick of the hybrid brace with a 50:50 weight distribution front-to-rear and the same dynamics associated with the whole 3 Series range, while the X5 is the go-anywhere option with its xDrive all-paw traction system and up to 1720 litres of load space.

BMW Group Australia CEO Marc Werner said the introduction of the two new variants was a mark of commitment to the future of cleaner motoring from the brand.

“BMW Group been very active in advocating sustainable mobility,” he said. “Our new eDrive models signal a real expansion of this area in Australia and reinforce our commitment to alternative fuel vehicles.”The German car maker has previously offered ActiveHybrid versions of the 3 Series and 7 Series, which did not have plug-in charging capability and sold with limited success.