BMW has revealed an upgraded version of its 530e saloon, set to arrive in the UK in 2020. Available with either rear-wheel-drive or xDrive all-wheel-drive, the revised hybrid combines the benefits of both internal combustion and electric power.
The model, no matter the drivetrain, utilises a 2.0-litre twin-turbocharged four-cylinder and an electric motor powered by a new lithium-ion battery – the former set under the bonnet and the latter under the boot floor. Its petrol unit produces 181bhp, while the electric motor adds 111bhp to the package. This allows for a brisk 0-60mph time of 6.1 seconds in the regular saloon and 6.2 seconds in the xDrive version.
But this car isn’t all about performance – its goal is also to provide cleaner, more economical motoring. The 530e delivers on this with a claimed 128mpg (xDrive) and 49g/km of CO2, while 36 miles of pure-electric driving is said to be possible.
BMW say the model’s combined fuel consumption and CO2 emissions has been reduced by more than 20 per cent thanks to the latest-generation of eDrive technology. The 530e’s battery can be charged in less than six hours when using a conventional household socket, while a BMW i Wallbox takes care of the job in three hours and thirty-five minutes.
Furthermore, when charging the car, its CO2 footprint is reduced by as much as 47 per cent, the firm claims. What’s more, braking can be used as a means of charging the battery.
Boot space has been limited due to the presence of batteries underneath, with the xDrive model having just 410 litres of room on offer – compared to the regular 5 Series saloon, that’s 120 litres less.
Both rear-drive and all-wheel-drive versions will be launched at the same time, with prices yet to be confirmed.