With its plug-in hybrid drive system, the new BMW 330e combines the dynamic flair and the promise of unbeatable efficiency over longer distances.
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The BMW 330e therefore brings together high-quality dynamics and extremely low fuel consumption. The fusion of BMW eDrive technology (developed under the BMW EfficientDynamics banner) with a BMW TwinPower Turbo petrol engine has resulted in an efficient and dynamic plug-in hybrid drive system which fits perfectly with the BMW brand: dynamically adept, locally emission-free thanks to its electric driving system and efficient driving.
The plug-in hybrid system delivers BMW driving dynamics by pairing an electric motor producing 65 kW/88 hp and a peak torque of 250 Nm / 184 lb-ft with a four-cylinder combustion engine, which develops 135 kW/184 hp and 290 Nm / 214 lb-ft of torque. Combined average fuel consumption is 2.1–1.9 litres per 100 kilometres, with CO2 emissions of 49–44 g/km. With 185 kW/252 hp and peak torque of 420 Nm / 310 lb-ft, the BMW 330e accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 6.1 seconds on the way to a top speed of 225 km/h (140 mph).
The electric motor supplements the power from the combustion engine with 100 Nm / 74 lb-ft of torque and can deliver a brief extra burst – depending on the position of the accelerator – of up to 250 Nm / 184 lb-ft. On the move, this comes across as an extremely forceful and sustained wave of power, similar to the sensation a large-capacity combustion engine might produce. Overtaking manoeuvres are that much quicker and the BMW 330e offers a rousing sense of driving pleasure on all types of road.
The high-voltage battery, made up of lithium-ion cells, is located underneath the boot and boasts efficient refrigerant cooling including a highly integrated low-temperature circuit. The battery has a total capacity of 7.6 kWh (gross)/5.7 kWh (net), which enables an all-electric and therefore locally emission-free range of around 40 kilometres (25 miles), all of which identifies the BMW 330e as a perfect model for city dwellers and commuters. ■
Under an intense surge of arctic air, Friday morning will begin with the coldest temperatures so far this season across much of the central and eastern U.S. with blustery conditions and a piercing wind chill.
