The specs for the BMW 330e iPerformance plug-in hybrid, set for release this summer, have been revealed through a new press release — giving us a good idea of what BMW’s first plug-in 3 Series Sedan will actually be like.
The BMW 330e iPerformance plug-in hybrid (PHEV) — which will be retailing for $44,695 (this includes the destination charge) — features a combined system output of 248 horsepower and a peak torque of 310 pound-feet, allowing for an acceleration of 0–60 mph in just 5.9 seconds. The model will feature a top speed of 140 mph, and an all-electric range of just 14 miles. When in all-electric mode, the speed is apparently capped at 75 mph.
The exact combustion engine and electric motor split is explained by the press release:
The combustion engine fitted in the BMW 330e iPerformance is based on the four-cylinder gasoline unit with BMW TwinPower Turbo technology that has already won the International Engine of the Year Award on two occasions. Stand-out characteristics include its sporty power delivery, output of 180 hp and peak torque of 215 lb-ft.
The electric motor, developing 87 hp with maximum peak torque of 184 lb-ft, and the power electronics are derived directly from the BMW eDrive technology featured as standard in the BMW i3 and BMW i8 models. The motor is powered by a lithium-ion battery with a capacity of 7.6 kWh (gross)/5.7 kWh (net). The model-specific concept of the high-voltage battery, including its battery management system and highly efficient direct cooling system derive from BMW i.
The battery can be recharged at any domestic power socket and is mounted flat in a particularly crash-safe position underneath the load compartment. The power electronics form a single integrated system that drives the electric motor via a liquid-cooled inverter, manages the energy flow from the high-voltage battery to the on-board electrical systems and provides centralized control of hybrid-specific functions.
As stated above, the BMW 330e iPerformance is expected to hit US showrooms this summer.
Image Credit: BMW
Looks like the 2016 328i retails for $39k, so this thing carries a $5k premium for 14 electric miles. Still, if similarly equipped, it could be a good deal depending on the federal tax credit (which you can logically assume most BMW buyers will qualify for). Does anyone know what the tax credit would be for the 7.6 kWh battery?