BMW is continuing to grow its range of
plug-in hybrid 5-Series models with this, the BMW 545e xDrive Sedan. The
plug-in hybrid features a straight-six petrol engine using BMW TwinPower Turbo
Technology and rated at 286 hp. This engine is then joined by a synchronous
electric motor providing an additional 109 hp and bringing combined grunt up to
394 hp and 600 Nm. Coupled to the engine is an 8-speed Steptronic
transmission and intelligent BMW xDrive four-wheel drive.
The German car manufacturer says the 545e
xDrive Sedan can hit 100 km/h in 4.7 seconds and a top speed of 250 km/h. When driven on all-electric power, the car can hit a top speed
of 140 km/h and has an electric range of 54-57 km. The
545e xDrive has an average fuel consumption of 2.1 – 2.4-liters/100 km (112-98
U.S. mpg).
A host of driving modes are on offer. The
Hybrid mode is the default setting and provides a balanced set-up and an
intelligent interaction between the combustion engine and the electric motor.
If drivers press the Hybrid button twice, an optimized mode known as Hybrid Eco
Pro is activated to provide better efficiency. Also offered is Sport mode where
the full 394 hp is on tap. Last but not least is Electric mode.
Like other electrified BMW models, the
545e xDrive has a ‘ready to drive sound’ used to alert pedestrians of its
presence. This sound was created through a collaboration with composer Hans
Zimmer and “is designed to trigger joyful anticipation of the electric drive
when the driver enters the vehicle and presses the Start/Stop button.”
The BMW 545e xDrive also uses the
company’s eDrive Zone service that facilitates the automatic switching over of
the drive system to purely electric mode when entering urban low-emission zones
and other inner-city area.
BMW has yet to release pricing details for
the model nor announced when it will launch.
