THE first ever plug-in hybrid performance sedan to come out of BMW’s growing stable of eco-friendly cars has been revealed, with the launch of the BMW 330e.
Using technology garnered from the groundbreaking i8 sports car, and combining a four-cylinder 2.0-litre BMW TwinPower turbo petrol engine and electric motor, the 330e delivers low emission, fuel-efficient motoring while retaining trademark BMW performance – a maximum power output of 185kW and peak torque of 420Nm – the same peak power and an additional 70Nm of torque compared to the petrol BMW 330i.
At the same time, this advanced drive train (the electric motor is fitted between the petrol engine and standard eight-speed automatic transmission) is able to power the BMW 330e from 0-100km/h in 6.1 seconds, with a top speed of 225km/h.
Visually, the BMW 330e maintains the dynamic flair that is a trademark of all 3 Series models, incorporating standard LED lights and large 19-inch light alloy wheels. The model is defined by its charging socket located in the left front wing, 330e badging and ‘eDrive’ logo on the boot lid and door sills.
Inside, the 330e is offered in Sport Line, Luxury Line or M Sport trim packages and features a high level of standard equipment for comfort, convenience and safety, together with BMW ConnectedDrive Services.
Dual-zone climate control – with cabin preconditioning available thanks to the auxiliary heating/cooling unit – key-less Comfort Access System, cruise control with braking function, interior LED ambient lights package, Rain Sensor automatic windscreen wipers and lights, electric seats, Dakota leather upholstery and multi-function steering wheel with gearshift paddles are all standard.
Providing optimum safety and driver assistance are six airbags, Dynamic Stability Control, Acoustic Protection for pedestrians, Driving Assistant, Rear View Camera with Surround View, Head-Up Display and front and rear Park Distance Control.
The 330e also features a hybrid specific version of the BMW Remote app, eDrive Services, which allows checking the battery status and locating public charging stations, along with instrument cluster and control display information tailored to the hybrid drive.
The lithium-ion battery that supplies energy for the electric motor comes with a six-year warranty and is able to be charged from empty from a standard domestic power socket in three hours and 15 minutes, via the high-speed and efficient BMW iWallbox in two hours and 15 minutes, or through the growing number of public charging stations.
The BMW 330e will hit the Australian market at $71,900 (plus on-roads).
