BMW has announced word of new plug-in hybrid X1 and X2 xDrive25e models, with an electric-only range of up to 35 miles…
BMW has revealed two new plug-in xDrive25e models – the X1 and X2 xDrive25e – both employ the marque’s latest-generation hybrid technology, including BMW’s current breed of high-voltage lithium-ion battery. Each with an electric-only range of 35-miles, the electrified duo boast average fuel consumption of 134.5-148.7mpg and CO2 emissions between 43-48 grams per kilometre. Both cars are powered by a 1.5-litre three-cylinder petrol engine with BMW TwinPower Turbo Technology producing 125hp and 162lb ft of torque, the electric drive system developed for the models are derived from eDrive modular system. The hybrid specific all-wheel drive system distributes power between front and rear wheels, a six-speed Steptronic transmission drives the front wheels. Working in conjunction with all this comes an electric motor generating an output of 95hp and 122lb ft sent to the rear wheels via a single-speed transmission making for a hybrid specific all-wheel drive. The electric motor’s responsive power delivery provides maximum torque spontaneously from a standstill. In addition, the position of the electric motor above the rear axle contributes to balanced weight distribution. In total the motors produce an output of 220hp and 284lb ft. The new X1 xDrive25e accelerates from 0-62mph in around 7-seconds, the X2 xDrive25e is approximately two-tenths of a second slower to the same benchmark. BMW’s latest-generation lithium-ion battery has a gross energy content of 10 kWh, this allows for an electrically-powered range of between 33-35-miles in both models. The battery can be charged via a conventional household three-pin socket in around five hours from empty, 3.8-hours to reach 80 percent of total capacity. Using a BMW i Wallbox charging from flat to full takes just over three-hours with eighty percent reached after 2.4 -hours.
Drivers can use the eDrive button on the centre console to influence the drive system’s mode. In the standard ‘Auto eDrive’ setting, the intelligent drive system ensures optimum interaction between the two power units in all driving situations. Navigation data is also used to manage the plug-in hybrid system, increasing efficiency as well as driving pleasure. When navigation guidance is activated energy management can also take into account the route profile for controlling drive systems. The ‘Max’ eDrive mode can be activated for maximum use of the electric drive. In this mode the new models can reach a top speed of 84mph. In addition the ‘Save Battery’ mode enables the driver to maintain the charging state of the battery while driving, or to increase it by means of recuperation. Using this mode battery capacity can be saved for later use, for example when arriving at your destination in purely electric mode.
The new BMWs feature acoustic pedestrian protection as standard – in use at speeds of up to 19mph, a sound alerts other road users to the approaching car without impairing acoustic comfort of vehicle occupants. Standard equipment for the two compact X models in the UK includes 17-inch lightweight alloy wheels, dual-zone automatic air-conditioning, Sports seats and LED headlights. The interior can be pre-conditioned remotely by smartphone via BMW Connected. The new BMW X1 xDrive25e is available in Sport Line, xLine and M Sport in the UK with prices starting at £38,200 – it is available to order now. Available from summer 2020, final details of the X2 xDrive25e are yet to emerge.
As a pioneer in electric mobility, BMW intends to have more than one million electrified vehicles on the road by the end of 2021, by which point 25 percent of all vehicles sold by the BMW Group in Europe are expected to feature electric drive. By 2025 this figure is scheduled to reach 33 percent, increasing to 50 percent by 2030. The BMW Group plans to extend its portfolio of electrified vehicles to 25 by 2023.
