THE NEW BMW 5 Series range arrives in Ireland in 2017 – and for the first time it will include a plug-in hybrid version, called the 530e.
This combines a 2.0-litre petrol engine with a 95hp electric motor that is powered by a high-voltage lithium-ion battery pack.
According to BMW’s official figures, the 530e will be capable of a combined driving range of close to 650km, achieving combined fuel consumption of 2.0 litres/100km (141.2mpg) with emissions of just 46g/km.
The car will feature a number of modes to suit each driver, allowing for softer or firmer suspension and allowing users to choose what engine or motor combination to use.
In electric-only mode, the car will be capable of covering up to 46km using battery power only, which for many is enough to cover their daily commute to work. It can also drive at speeds of up to 140km/h using purely electric power.
Recharging the car’s lithium-ion battery can be done in less than three hours by using a 3.7kW BMW i Wallbox, and in less than five hours from a standard domestic plug socket. As the car has a smaller battery than a fully electric vehicle, the cabin offers the same amount of space as the regular 5 Series and boot capacity is a useful 410 litres.
Discreet visual changes identify the 530e from the regular 5 Series models – a subtle blue line on the kidney grille slats, blue wheel hub covers and obviously the additional charging socket cover that is located between the front wheel arch and the A-pillar. To most, though, it will look just like any other regular BMW 5 Series.
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