BMW announces plans to release plug-in hybrid variants of its top models

BMW has announced that it will soon begin offering plug-in hybrid variants of its most popular vehicles models, including the best-selling 3-Series sedan, according to Autoblog. The German automaker also unveiled a new generation of BMW hybrid concept vehicles that are set to debut at the company’s facility in Miramas, France.

As with most plug-in hybrids, BMW’s 3-Series prototype features a four-cylinder TwinPower Turbo gasoline engine alongside an electric motor. The hybrid’s performance will be at a level comparable to the company’s 3-Series six-cylinder model, but will consume much less fuel and will come at a significantly lower price, according to Green Car Reports.

“All BMW Group models benefit from BMW i,” said Herbert Diess, a member of the Board of Management at BMW, in a press release. “The fundamental technology involved in battery cells, electric motors and the power electronics will be used in our upcoming plug-in hybrid models. When it comes to the electrification of the drivetrain, we are deliberately developing a wide-ranging expertise in order to offer our customers worldwide the ideal solution.

The automaker also unveiled a plug-in hybrid version of its X5 sport-utility vehicle and hinted that electric versions from the Mini and Rolls-Royce brands could be a possibility, further demonstrating the company’s dedication to reducing the emissions of its vehicles, similar to when BMW created the ”i” sub-brand for showcasing its clean-car technology.

“Our accumulated expertise guarantees us a competitive edge,” stated Harald Krüger, another member of the Board of Management at BMW, in the company’s press release, as quoted by Automotive News. “This can be seen not only in the performance data of the BMW electric motors but also in our highly efficient production process.”