2015 will be a monumental year for BMW, as it seeks to implement their advanced plug-in hybrid technology – found in the i8 – on their regular models. Dubbed eDrive, the technology is destined for the 3-, 5-, and 7 Series lines. The new feature will, however, make its first “regular” appearance on the BMW X5.
The plug-in hybrid system BMW plans to implement on its vehicles will utilise an electric motor that has been integrated with the transmission. Powered by a lithium-ion battery, the motor is strong enough to propel the car, but can work in conjunction with the normal combustion engine when the load becomes too heavy. The battery can be charged either at home, or whilst running using regenerative braking or energy from the engine.
The setup in the BMW 3 Series will comprise of a 2,0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine for internal combustion, with the electric motor mated to the eight-speed auto ‘box. In keeping in line with BMW tradition, drive will go to the rear wheels only.
Total power output for the plug-in hybrid 3-Series is rated at 180 kW and 520 N.m of torque, while fuel consumption is rated at a measly 2,4 l/100 km. In electric mode the vehicle should reach a distance of 35 km and a top speed of 120 km/h.
Inside the hybrid 3, mounted on the centre console, BMW installed the “Driving Experience Control switch”. In effect it is not much different to its iDrive system. Drivers can still opt between three driving modes – COMFORT, SPORT and ECO PRO – and set the vehicle up to meet varying requirements and situations.
Another button allows for the driver to switch between all-electric drive (MAX eDrive) and another mode that allows for the battery to be in a constant state of charge.
BMW predicts that in future, the internal combustion engine will be phased out and that electric vehicles will become the new standard barriers. With rising fuel prices and stricter standards being placed on emissions, it is perhaps understandable why BMW predicts the future the way they do.
For the performance orientated driver, BMW says that in future it will produce cars with double the capacity and power currently on offer, with outputs in excess of 500 kW.
The 3 Series plug-in hybrid will arrive next year together with the facelifted 3 Series. The current ActiveHybrid 3 will effectively be replaced.
Follow the respective links (Introduction report, Update 1, Update 2 and Update 3) to read about the ActiveHybrid 3 which recently formed part of our long-term fleet.
