BMW Launch a New Plug-In Hybrid Version 

Starting March, the BMW 3 Series model family will benefit from four plug-in hybrid options. The introduction of four new plug-in hybrid versions for the popular BMW 3 Series and 5 Series family of models is the latest development in the German automaker's electrification strategy. The new base model PHEV powertrain will use a 163 horsepower 2.0-liter 4-cylinder petrol engine that works in tandem with the electric motor for a combined 204 horsepower. The plug-in hybrid system also produces a peak torque of around 258 lb-ft. Power is channeled via BMW's 8-speed Steptronic transmission. BMW says its new models will feature the latest high-capacity storage battery technology, which produces 12 kWh of gross energy content with a capacity of 34 Ah. Charging a fully charged battery to 80% on the BMW PHEV model will take 2.6 hours on a 3.7 kW charger and 3.6 hours to fully charge.