KUALA LUMPUR: BMW Group Malaysia today introduced its new 3 Series plug-in hybrid here, pricing it at RM248,800 for the Malaysian market.
The new 330e sedan is the premium automaker's second locally assembled hybrid with eDrive technology introduced in the country.
The new hybrid was unveiled during BMW's 100 year anniversary celebration at BMW Innovation Days Malaysia 2016, held in Desa ParkCity.
"The BMW 330e is the 12th model to join the portfolio of locally-assembled vehicles at BMW Group Malaysia’s Assembly Facilities at the Kulim Hi-Tech Park," said managing director and CEO of BMW Group Malaysia, Han Sang Yun.
"The launch of the new BMW 330e is a testament to both the legacy of the BMW brand and future oriented mobility. Since its inception, the BMW 3 Series sedan has been challenging boundaries and standards in its class without forsaking its identity as an iconic driving machine. Today, the BMW 330e continues to drive the future of mobility with pioneering hybrid technology and cutting-edge engineering,” added Han.
The 330e is powered by a BMW TwinPower Turbo engine mated to an 88hp electric motor.
The four-cylinder petrol unit has a maximum output of 252hp with a peak torque of 420Nm.
Combined fuel consumption is at 2.1 litres per 100 kilometres and CO2 emissions is at 49 grams per kilometre.
The electric motor is able to drive the car to a top speed of 120kph in pure electric drive, with an electric-only range of 37kms.
Combined, the powertrain propels the 330e from 0 to 100kph in just 6.1 seconds. The 330e has a top speed of 225kph.
Powertrain control is selected with the eDrive button and Driving Experience Control switch.
There are three driving modes which vary the balance between conventional and electric drive. The are – Auto eDRIVE, Max eDRIVE and Save Battery modes.
The high-voltage battery has a capacity of 7.6 kWh and can be charged from any domestic power socket.
Full charge from a conventional domestic power socket takes about 5 hours. With a BMW Wallbox Pro however, charging time is reduced to 3.5 hours.
BMW customers can also opt for the ChargeNow service.
With a ChargeNow card, they can charge at partner charging stations like ChargEV, which are located at operational in 19 strategic locations throughout Kuala Lumpur, Selangor, Kedah, Malacca, and Johor.
This service is made possible through BMW Group Malaysia’s partnership with Malaysian Green Technology Corporation (GreenTech Malaysia).
Colour options for the new BMW 330e are Black Sapphire, Mineral Grey, Mediterranean Blue and Alpine White with Leather Dakota Black upholstery.