BMW’s new plug-in hybrid system promises more power and a significantly longer electric range of up to 63 miles between charges
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The fully electric Vision Neue Klasse concept might be the absolute highlight of the automaker’s stand at the IAA Mobility 2023 show in Munich, but there are also other vehicles worthy of our attention. The Bavarian company will introduce two new plug-in hybrid variants of the 5-Series with significantly improved specs, the armored i7 Protection, and BMW Motorrad’s CE 02 eParkourer electric bike. Furthermore, MINI will unveil the new electric Cooper and the third-gen Countryman.
The plug-in hybrid BMW 5-Series models include the four-cylinder 530e and the six-cylinder 550e xDrive, which will go on sale in spring 2024 and will offer a “notable increase in output”, plus “significantly improved efficiency and electric range” compared to the previous generation.
More: MINI’s Upcoming Countryman Hints At More Rugged Character In Latest Teaser
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The rear-wheel-drive 530e will offer a combined output of 295 hp (220 kW / 299 PS), while the all-wheel-drive 550e xDrive will come with a combined 483 hp (360 kW / 489 PS). The electric motor is specifically developed for the new PHEV models and is mounted inside the 8-speed Steptronic Sport gearbox, producing up to 194 hp (145 kW / 197 PS) of power in the 550e xDrive. BMW engineers added a patented “pre-gearing stage” to the electric motor, allowing it to unleash up to 450 Nm (332 lb-ft) of “effective” torque from the “nominal” figure of 280 Nm (206 lb-ft) to further improve acceleration.
The larger lithium-ion battery has a usable capacity of 19.4 kWh, allowing an EV-only range of 87-101 km (54-63 miles) in the more frugal 530e and 79-90 km (49-56 miles) in the 550e xDrive. The battery pack is located in the underbody so it doesn’t compromise the 520 lt (18.4 cubic feet) of cargo space. The PHEVs are compatible with a charging rate of 7.4 kW, meaning that a full charge takes 3 hours via a rapid charger, or 9.8 hours via a domestic plug.
The Vision Neue Klasse And Other Notable Debuts
BMW’s presence at the Munich Auto Show will be spearheaded by the much-anticipated Vision Neue Klasse on September 2. The concept will be showcased at both the IAA Mobility Summit and at the Open Space site at Max-Joseph-Platz. The latter which will remain open between September 5-10, will also host BMW’s entire range of electric vehicles, including the iX1, i4, i5, iX, and i7.
Speaking of EVs, MINI has announced two debuts for Munich this year. The fully electric variant of the MINI Cooper will make its public debut, as with the new MINI Countryman. The SUV will be larger compared to its predecessor and offer the option between EV and ICE powertrains although the PHEV will be discontinued.
Last but not least, the first armored electric limo – the BMW i7 Protection – and the iX5 Hydrogen will be exhibited at the IAA Mobility Summit which is primarily aimed at trade visitors.
Stay tuned for more news from this year’s IAA Mobility Show which opens its doors on September 5 at the Munich Exhibition Center.
