PHEV Archives

BMW Unveils Next-Generation 5 Series Touring: ICE, EV and PHEV Variants

BMW has taken the wraps off its latest iteration of the esteemed 5 Series Touring, ushering in a new era of driving pleasure, luxury, and environmental consciousness. The sixth generation of the BMW 5 Series Touring represents a significant leap forward, boasting cutting-edge digital innovations, advanced automated driving features, and a heightened commitment to sustainability, highlighted by the debut of the all-electric BMW i5 Touring. This new model aims to redefine the premium upper mid-range segment with its refined design, exceptional performance, and spacious comfort.

The BMW i5 Touring is the first all-electric premium model in its competitive field. It will be available in two versions from the outset. In the BMW i5 M60 xDrive Touring, two highly integrated drive units on the front and rear axles together form an electric all-wheel drive with up to 601hp. With M Launch Control or M Sport Boost activated, the system torque is increased to 820Nm. The top model accelerates from a standstill to 100km/h in 3.9 seconds and its top speed is electronically limited to 230km/h.

The electric motor of the BMW i5 eDrive40 Touring is located on the rear axle and generates a maximum output of 340hp and a maximum torque of up to 430Nm with Sport Boost or Launch Control function. The BMW i5 eDrive40 Touring accelerates from zero to 100km/h in 6.1 seconds.

In both models, the high-voltage battery located in the underbody provides a usable energy content of 81.2 kWh. In addition to the efficient electric motors, adaptive recuperation and heat pump technology for heating and cooling the interior, the drive and high-voltage battery contribute to the long-distance capability of the i5 Touring. The range determined in the WLTP test procedure is 445 to 506km for the BMW i5 M60 xDrive Touring and 483 to 560km for the BMW i5 eDrive40 Touring.

The battery can be charged with alternating current with an output of up to 11kW as standard and up to 22kW as an option. The high-voltage battery can be charged with direct current with a power of up to 205kW. Anticipatory thermal management for the high-voltage battery optimises efficiency when using fast-charging stations. Connected Home Charging for the all-electric and plug-in hybrid models creates the conditions for solar and load-optimised as well as cost-optimised charging. The BMW i5 Touring is also suitable for the Plug & Charge Multi Contract function.

The new BMW 5 Series Touring introduces a flexible drive architecture that enables the production of highly efficient petrol and diesel engines, plug-in hybrid systems, and all-electric drive systems on a single production line. This approach underscores BMW’s dedication to offering diverse propulsion options while maintaining manufacturing efficiency.

All diesel engines available for the new BMW 5 Series Touring are combined with 48-volt mild hybrid technology and an 8-speed Steptronic transmission. The four-cylinder engine of the BMW 520d Touring models available at market launch and BMW 520d xDrive Touring generates a maximum output of 197hp and a maximum torque of 400Nm. The drive portfolio will be supplemented by an in-line six-cylinder diesel engine in summer 2024. At the same time, two model variants with the latest generation of plug-in hybrid drive will follow.

Externally, it showcases dynamically elongated proportions, a modern interpretation of the brand’s iconic twin headlights, and a distinctive BMW grille that projects forward. Its elongated wheelbase and sleek window graphics contribute to its sporty yet sophisticated appearance.

Inside the cabin, the cockpit is centred around the BMW Curved Display, offering a fully digital display network for enhanced user interaction. Notably, the interior features vegan materials as standard, with optional upgrades including BMW Individual Merino leather upholstery and a panoramic glass roof.

In terms of functionality and comfort, the new BMW 5 Series Touring offers improved space and acoustic comfort, making it ideal for both daily use and extended journeys. The adaptable interior includes a spacious luggage compartment that can be expanded to accommodate larger cargo, catering to the diverse needs of drivers and passengers.

Furthermore, the new BMW 5 Series Touring comes equipped with advanced systems for semi-automated driving and parking, enhancing safety and convenience for drivers. Infotainment and connectivity features are also at the forefront, with the BMW iDrive display and operating system offering redesigned interfaces and a range of digital services including streaming video and in-car gaming.

Overall, the new BMW 5 Series Touring sets a new standard in the premium upper mid-range segment, offering a compelling blend of performance, luxury, and sustainability. With its innovative design, advanced technology, and diverse propulsion options, it represents the future of automotive excellence.

New BMW X5 xDrive50e M Sport Pricing Officially Revealed: RM486,800!

BMW Malaysia has officially announced the pricing for the latest plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) variant, the new BMW X5 xDrive50e M Sport. As part of the BMW Group’s locally assembled vehicles for the Malaysian market, this PHEV version of the popular Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV), known as “The Boss,” arrives in the M Sport variant, offering enhanced performance and efficiency.

Performance and Efficiency Improvements

The new BMW X5 xDrive50e M Sport boasts an upgraded PHEV powertrain with a combined output of 489hp and an enhanced torque of 700Nm. This power, derived from the 3.0-litre straight-six petrol engine and a potent electric motor, enables the vehicle to achieve a century sprint in just 4.8 seconds. The PHEV capabilities have also seen significant improvements, with an electric range of up to 110 km (WLTP) and a faster 7.4 kW charging capacity, allowing for a full charge from 0-100% in only 4.5 hours.

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BMW Malaysia Memperkenalkan X5 xDrive50e M Sport Yang Dipasang Di Malaysia

Menyusuli kejayaan BMW X5 dalam pasaran Malaysia pada tahun 2023, BMW Malaysia juga telah menyingkap varian ‘plug-in’ hibrid jentera Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV) terbaharu mereka yang paling cemerlang, iaitu BMW X5 xDrive50e yang turut dipasang di dalam negara. Hadir dengan pakej M Sport secara standard, BMW X5 xDrive50e baharu melihat pengemaskinian yang signifikan dari segi prestasi dan keefisienan, memuatkan lebih banyak kuasa dengan jarak operasi elektrik yang lebih tinggi, tanpa mengkompromikan keelegenan dan kemegahannya.

Dari sudut dinamik pemanduan, BMW X5 xDrive50e M baharu didatangkan dengan rangkaian kuasa PHEV yang mampu membekalkan output gabungan berjumlah 489hp – iaitu 96hp lebih tinggi berbanding model terdahulu, juga dengan tork yang lebih tinggi kini berjumlah 700Nm.

Output gabungan enjin petrol enam sebaris 3.0 liter serta motor elektriknya yang hebat membolehkan BMW X5 xDrive50e M Sport baharu membuat pecutan abad dalam masa 4.8 saat. Daya elektrik jentera PHEV ini juga telah dinaik taraf, memberikannya jarak operasi elektrik sejauh 110 km (WLTP), di samping penambahbaikan sebanyak 7.4 kW dalam aspek pengecasan, membolehkan jentera ini dicas dari 0-100% hanya dalam tempoh 4.5 jam.

Di dalam kabin BMW X5 xDrive50e M Sport yang mengagumkan ini, terletak BMW Curved Display 14.9 inci dengan kluster paparan digital penuh yang sedia untuk diakses oleh pemandu, kini memuatkan BMW Operating System 8.5. Ia termasuk BMW Live Cockpit Professional dan panel instrumen BMW yang menyokong pelbagai kaedah interaksi di antara pengguna dan kenderaan ini, yakni melalui iDrive Controller, suara, sentuhan atau dengan menggunakan Gesture Control. Light Bar dengan struktur permukaan berhablur, serta sistem bunyi keliling Harman Kardon turut didatangkan secara standard.

Konsol sentral di dalam BMW X5 xDrive50e M Sport baharu juga kini menampilkan tata atur baharu serta butang fungsi sentuh tambahan, dan penukaran gear kini dibuat dengan suis jumpelang (rocker switch). Ciri-ciri standard tambahan bagi SAV ini meliputi BMW Comfort Access, Driving Assistant Professional, Parking Assistant Professional, berserta warna eksterior Black Sapphire, Manhattan, Mineral White, dan Skyscraper Grey, di samping upholsteri interior “Merino”, daripada famili BMW Individual Extended Leather, yang hadir dengan dua pilihan warna – Black dan Tartufo, kedua-duanya mencerminkan susuk atletik dan kemewahan moden BMW X5 xDrive50e M Sport baharu.

Anggaran harga jualan bagi BMW X5 xDrive50e M Sport baharu ialah RM530,000.

Toyota Memperkenalkan Crown Sport PHEV Di Pasaran Jepun

Toyota telah memperkenalkan Toyota Crown Sport Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV) ke pasaran Jepun, menggabungkan teknologi canggih dengan reka bentuk yang sporty.

Crown Sport PHEV ini menampilkan motor pemacu dengan ketumpatan daya keluaran tinggi dengan daya keluaran sistem maksimum 306PS. Ia mempunyai Series Parallel Hybrid dengan reduction gear (A25A-FXS 2.5-liter Dynamic Force Engine), memastikan pecutan yang kuat dan menetapkan standard baru dalam prestasi hibrid.

Bateri lithium-ion berkapsitas besar, diletakkan di bawah kenderaan, memberikan jarak pemanduan Mod Elektrik Bateri (BEV) sejauh 90km dan ekonomi bahan api mod hibrid sebanyak 20.3km/L, menghasilkan jarak pemanduan sebanyak 1,200km atau lebih.

Sistem E-Four 4WD elektrik meningkatkan kestabilan pemanduan, manakala binaan tambahan ke terowong lantai memastikan keseimbangan badan yang optimum. Sistem Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS) dan paddle shifters memberikan pemanduan yang lancar dan padu.

Crown Sport PHEV menampilkan sistem pengecutan yang berorientasikan prestasi dengan brek cakera berlubang berukuran 20 inci dan penjepit enam piston eksklusif untuk peningkatan kuasa berhenti.

Reka bentuk luar yang sporty dan mewah termasuk tayar berdiameter besar 21 inci dan tayar lebar, serta tiga mata rantai yang mencolok pada roda aluminium hitam.

Bahagian dalam kereta menampilkan skema warna hitam dan merah yang tidak simetri dengan kerusi sport dan jahitan merah.

Crown Sport PHEV menyokong fungsi cas standard dan pantas, dengan cas pantas mencapai kapasiti bateri 80% dalam masa kira-kira 38 minit. Sistem Vehicle to Home (V2H) yang inovatif membolehkan Crown Sport PHEV membekalkan tenaga elektrik yang disimpan ke rumah semasa pemadaman elektrik atau kecemasan. Toyota Crown Sport PHEV mewakili gabungan prestasi, teknologi, dan kesedaran alam sekitar, menandakan langkah penting ke arah masa depan automotif yang mampan dan elektrik.

Harganya di Jepun ialah ¥7,650,000 (RM247,627).

Toyota Launches Crown Sport PHEV in Japan – 1,200km Cruise Range, 306PS

In a pioneering move toward a sustainable automotive future, Toyota Motor Corporation has introduced the Crown Sport Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV) to the Japanese market, seamlessly blending advanced technology with a sporty design ethos.

The Crown Sport PHEV features a high-output density drive motor, providing a maximum system output of 306PS. It features a Series Parallel Hybrid with reduction gear (A25A-FXS 2.5-liter Dynamic Force Engine). This cutting-edge motor ensures seamless and powerful acceleration, setting a new standard in hybrid performance.

Positioned strategically beneath the vehicle’s floor, the large-capacity lithium-ion battery delivers a Battery Electric Vehicle (BEV)-mode cruising range suitable for daily use without compromising interior space. A fully charged battery provides a BEV-mode range of 90km and a hybrid-mode fuel economy of 20.3km/L, resulting in an impressive total cruising range of 1,200km or more.

To enhance driving stability, Toyota has incorporated the advanced E-Four electric 4WD system, distributing power to all four wheels. This system not only improves stability but also ensures control in various driving conditions, including cornering and adverse weather.

The Crown Sport PHEV ensures optimal body rigidity balance with added braces to the floor tunnel. The Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS) system, along with paddle shifters, delivers a smooth and planted ride, allowing for seamless gear shifts.

Equipped with a performance-oriented braking system, the vehicle features 20-inch ventilated disc brakes and exclusive six-piston callipers for enhanced stopping power and a sporty exterior aesthetic.

With its 21-inch large-diameter, wide tires and distinctive triple spokes on black aluminium wheels, the Crown Sport PHEV boasts a sporty and luxurious exterior design, appealing to drivers seeking a dynamic yet sophisticated look.

The interior adopts a black and red asymmetrical colour scheme, injecting excitement into the driving experience. Sports seats with red stitching provide firm support for the driver, enhancing the overall thrill of driving.

The Crown Sport PHEV supports both standard and rapid charging functions, with the rapid charging capability reaching 80% battery capacity in approximately 38 minutes. Additionally, the innovative Vehicle to Home (V2H) system allows the Crown Sport PHEV to supply stored electricity to the home during blackouts or emergencies.

Toyota’s Crown Sport PHEV represents a revolutionary fusion of performance, cutting-edge technology, and environmental consciousness, catering to drivers who seek a dynamic driving experience without compromising on hybrid efficiency. This model marks a significant step toward Toyota’s commitment to a sustainable and electrified automotive future.

In Japan, it is priced at ¥7,650,000 (RM247,627).

Hibrid Lebih Baik Daripada PHEV Dalam Kebolehpercayaan

Berita ini mungkin sukar diterima, terutamanya bagi pemilik kenderaan plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV), tetapi mengikut Consumer Reports (CR), hibrid biasa adalah lebih boleh dipercayai daripada PHEV. CR mengumpul maklumat daripada ahli-ahli mereka setiap tahun mengenai masalah yang mereka hadapi dengan kenderaan mereka dalam tempoh 12 bulan yang lepas.

Tahun ini, mereka mengumpul data dari lebih daripada 330,000 kenderaan, merangkumi model tahun 2000 hingga 2023, termasuk beberapa model awal 2024. Walau bagaimanapun, adalah penting untuk diingatkan bahawa kerana laporan ini berasal dari Amerika Syarikat, beberapa model kereta mungkin tidak relevan untuk pasaran Malaysia.

Fokus utama di sini adalah perbandingan dengan kenderaan internal combustion engine (ICE) tradisional. Model elektrik, terutamanya hibrid, telah menunjukkan prestasi yang lebih baik berbanding dengan kenderaan ICE tradisional. Walau bagaimanapun, laporan tersebut menunjukkan bahawa PHEV mempunyai prestasi yang bercampur, dengan kebolehpercayaan yang berbeza-beza di kalangan model-model yang berlainan.

Penilaian melibatkan 20 kawasan masalah yang berpotensi berbeza di kalangan pelbagai jenis kenderaan, merangkumi segala-galanya dari masalah kecil seperti brek bising hingga kepada kebimbangan yang lebih besar seperti enjin, transmisi, bateri kenderaan elektrik (EV), dan masalah cas EV yang sudah tamat tempoh waranti.

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Reports State That Hybrids Are Still Far More Reliable Than PHEVs

This is going to be a hard pill to swallow, especially for plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) owners, but statistics do not lie. According to CR (Consumer Reports), hybrids have far superior reliability compared to PHEVs. Every year, CR compiles info and data from its members about problems that they have encountered with their vehicles in the past 12 months.

This year, CR accumulated data from over 330,000 vehicles dated from 2000 to 2023 model years with a few additions of early 2024 models. However, because this CR is a US-based report, certain models may not be relevant to the Malaysian market.

The main comparison here is towards traditional ICE (Internal Combustion Engine). Electrified models, particularly hybrids, have emerged as frontrunners, showcasing superior performance compared to traditional ICE vehicles. However, the report also sheds light on the mixed performance of PHEVs, with notable variations in reliability among different models.

The evaluation delves into 20 trouble areas across various vehicle types, providing a nuanced perspective on mainstream models. This thorough evaluation encompasses everything from minor nuisances like squeaky brakes to major concerns such as out-of-warranty engine, transmission, EV battery, and EV charging issues.

Consumer Reports employs a meticulous approach, weighing the severity of each problem to generate a predicted reliability score for each vehicle, ranging from 1 to 100. This score is instrumental in determining the overall reliability rating for every major mainstream model. The reliability rating is then merged with data from track testing, owner satisfaction survey results, and safety data to calculate each vehicle’s Overall Score.

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New BMW 5 Series Sedan Now Offers PHEV Option With 489hp

BMW’s expansion into the electric vehicle realm has seen the introduction of two new combustion engine variants integrated with eDrive 48-volt mild hybrid technology: the 530e and 550e xDrive. These variants mark a strategic fusion of traditional combustion engines with BMW’s cutting-edge eDrive technology.

In the case of the 530e sedan, a potent combination of a four-cylinder petrol engine and BMW’s eDrive technology delivers a robust 299hp. Impressively, this amalgamation provides an electric range extending up to 103km, demonstrating the brand’s commitment to eco-friendly options without compromising power.

On the other hand, the 550e xDrive sedan boasts a formidable in-line six-cylinder engine, generating a substantial 489hp. Even in its electric-only mode, this model can achieve an impressive range of up to 90km, showcasing BMW’s dedication to providing diverse options within the hybrid spectrum.

Integral to these plug-in hybrids is the eDrive system, integrating an electric motor within an eight-speed Steptronic Sport transmission. This innovative setup enables exceptional fuel efficiency, aligning with BMW’s dedication to sustainability and reduced emissions.

To enhance the overall balance and storage capacity of the 5 Series, the lithium-ion battery, with an impressive usable energy content of up to 19.4 kWh, is strategically positioned within the car’s underbody. This placement optimises weight distribution and enhances the driving experience.

Moreover, the battery’s convenience is further emphasised by its rapid charging capability, allowing a full charge in approximately 3 hours and 15 minutes. Additionally, adaptive recuperation technology enables the recovery of energy while driving, enhancing overall efficiency.

Both the 530e and 550e xDrive models boast a range of standard equipment, including distinctive 19-inch light alloy wheels and BMW’s IconicSounds Electric. The latter feature adds an acoustic dimension to the electric driving experience, providing feedback matching accelerator pedal movements and elevating the overall driving experience.

These models are part of BMW’s eighth-generation 5 Series platform, reflecting the brand’s holistic approach to mobility solutions that encompass both traditional combustion engines and a dynamic shift towards electrification, as evidenced by the all-electric i5 introduced earlier this year.