BMW 330e Sedan.
The BMW 3 Series range has expanded thanks to the addition of the 330e Sedan. It is the first plug-in hybrid of the current-generation 3 Series.
WHAT IS A PLUG-IN HYBRID?
The BMW 330e is a petrol-electric hybrid. That means it has a conventional engine paired to an electric motor.
The electric motor is powered by a battery pack, which can be recharged when the car is plugged in. Hence, plug-in hybrid. In conventional hybrids, the battery pack is only recharged by the engine and through regenerative braking.
HOW MUCH POWER DO YOU GET?
The BMW 330e Sedan has a turbocharged 2-litre 4-cylinder paired to an electric motor.
In all, the 330e offers 252hp and 420Nm. This rear-wheel-drive saloon will zip from rest to 100km/h in 5.9 seconds, with help from XtraBoost. The car’s top speed is 230km/h.
Xtra-what?
The BMW 330e Sedan is the first BMW with XtraBoost. This function gives the driver an extra 40hp for 10 seconds.
To activate it, the driver has to first select Sport mode on the Driving Experience Control switch. Then to unleash it, the driver must stomp on the accelerator pedal.
According to BMW, XtraBoost is available even if the lithium-ion battery is at minimal charge.
ELECTRIC-ONLY DRIVING
As a plug-in hybrid, the BMW 330e is capable of pure electric driving. In this mode, its maximum range is between 59 to 66km. This is more than 50 percent better than the previous model.
In Electric mode, top speed is 140km/h, or 20km/h quicker than its predecessor. When Hybrid mode is selected, top speed is 110km/h, or 30km/h faster than before.
PRICE & SPECIFICATIONS
BMW 330e Sedan Luxury Line 2.0 (A)
ENGINE 1998cc, 16-valves, inline-4, turbocharged
MAX POWER 184hp at 5000-6500rpm
MAX TORQUE 300Nm at 1350-4000rpm
TOTAL SYSTEM POWER 252hp (292hp with XtraBoost)
TOTAL SYSTEM TORQUE 420Nm
GEARBOX 8-speed automatic with manual select
0-100KM/H 5.9 seconds (with XtraBoost)
TOP SPEED 230km/h
PRICE INCL. COE $248,888 (after $10k VES rebate)
AGENT Performance Motors Limited
What is the difference between a hybrid, plug-in hybrid and electric car?
