A plug-in hybrid vehicle (PHEV, Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle) combines a petrol engine, an electric engine and a high-voltage battery. This allows a reduction in fuel consumption as well as CO2 emissions. Interaction between the two systems also offers additional performance and acceleration power.
As its name suggests, a plug-in hybrid can be charged from a socket, a wall box or at a public charging station. The maximum efficiency of a plug-in hybrid is achieved with a fully charged battery; which means that a charging facility should be available at home and at the workplace.
The electric range for purely electric driving with a fully charged battery in the case of a BMW 530e, for example, extends up to 37 miles. During recuperation, that means whenever you lift your foot from the accelerator pedal, kinetic energy is converted into electrical energy and fed into the battery – and as a result, you gain further miles for the electric range.
As part of its “Power of Choice” strategy, BMW is offering its customers a large selection of plug-in hybrids as a conscious decision in favour of this particularly efficient drive system.
A plug-in hybrid is ideal for drivers seeking the greatest possible versatility: on the one hand, it provides an electric drive for everyday use, such as the cost-optimised and sustainable commute to the office. Optimum use comes with regularly recurring medium-distance commutes when driving in pure electric mode. On the other hand, the vehicles offer range and flexibility for long distances such as for the weekend excursion with the family.