Powerful Hybrid Offerings
Get ready to see the future of BMW driving on UK roads. Just after the grand launch of the all-electric BMW i5 and its 48-volt mild hybrid siblings, BMW is all set to drop two brand-new plug-in hybrid models this November. Say hello to the BMW 530e Sedan and the BMW 550e xDrive Sedan.
Key Specs
The 530e Sedan, coupled with its 2.0-litre petrol engine and e-drive unit, boasts a hefty 220 kW or 299 hp. It can reach from a standstill to 62 mph in a zippy 6.3 seconds and has a top speed of 143 mph.
The 550e xDrive Sedan, on the other hand, packs even more of a punch. Powered by a 3.0-litre petrol engine, this beauty can deliver up to 360 kW or 489 hp. Clocking 0 to 62 mph in 4.3 seconds, its top speed is a whopping 155 mph.
Driving Green and Going Farther
Both models take advantage of the latest BMW eDrive technology. The new 550e xDrive Sedan can drive for 49 to 56 miles purely on electric power, while the 530e Sedan impressively ranges between 54 to 62 miles. So, for those city commutes or quick jaunts to the countryside, you might not even use a drop of petrol. It’s a smooth transition to more sustainable driving.
Efficient Design with a Dash of Agility
One of BMW’s patented innovations helps boost the power of the electric motor. This means a compact motor can generate the kind of torque that would typically need a much larger one. Furthermore, aerodynamic enhancements, like special panelling and air deflection elements, help reduce air resistance, ultimately increasing the electric range.
When out and about, the latest version of adaptive recuperation uses navigation data to adjust power recovery based on traffic situations. Efficient, right?
More Power, Less Waiting
No one likes to wait around, especially not for charging. With a new and improved high-voltage battery and a maximum charging power of 7.4 kW, the battery goes from empty to full in just 3 hours and 15 minutes. If you’re plugging into a standard household socket, it’s a wait of 11 hours and 45 minutes – perfect for an overnight charge.
Luxury as Standard
BMW is renowned for luxury, and these models are no exception. Both the 530e Sedan and the 550e xDrive Sedan come with a broad range of standard equipment. Notably, both feature the BMW IconicSounds Electric, developed in collaboration with famed film composer Hans Zimmer. This feature delivers an immersive acoustic experience in electric mode.
The BMW 550e xDrive Sedan also boasts the Adaptive Chassis Professional, enhancing driving agility and comfort. Additionally, the BMW Interaction Bar, with its illuminated, touch-sensitive control panels, promises both functionality and a visual treat.
Quick Look at Emissions & Consumption
For the 530e Sedan, we’re looking at 0.8 – 0.6 litres/100km fuel consumption and 21.7 – 19.9 kWh/100 km power consumption. CO2 emissions stand at a low of 17 – 13 g/km. The 550e xDrive Sedan is slightly higher with 1.0 – 0.8 litres/100km fuel consumption and 23.2 – 21.6 kWh/100 km power consumption. Its CO2 emissions are between 23 – 19 g/km.
To sum it up, BMW continues to combine power, luxury, and sustainability in their offerings, setting a high standard in the automotive world. These hybrids are not just a statement – they’re a glimpse into the future of driving.