First plug-in hybrid business sedan urges drivers to go electric

German premium carmaker BMW is localizing even further in China. Earlier this year, its joint venture BMW Brilliance launched the 5 Series plug-in hybrid, the brand's first plug-in hybrid electric premium business sedan.

The model is locally produced in BMW Brilliance's factory in Shenyang. According to the company, it is the first plug-in hybrid business sedan in China that combines luxury, energy saving and environmental protection.

The model is sold in seven cities around the country and BMW offers an all-round service for customers. The company believes the model sets a benchmark for the development of premium business sedans in the Chinese market.

The suggested price of the model is 698,600 yuan ($112,405).

eDrive technology

BMW's eDrive technology is specifically designed for new-energy vehicles. Its electric driving mode can achieve zero emissions and its gas engine allows for long distance driving.

The model is equipped with a four cyclinders Twin Power Turbo engine, an electric motor and 8-speed automatic gearbox. The car takes 7.1 seconds to get from zero to 100 km/h. In pure electric driving mode, the maximum mileage of the battery capacity is 58 km and the top speech could reach 120 km/h, which meet the needs of city commutes.

In terms of fuel efficiency and emissions, the model boasts the lowest fuel consumption in the premium business sedan segment, of 2 liters per 100 km, according to the company.

The BMW 5 Series plug-in hybrid qualifies for the government subsidy of 31,500 yuan offered to new-energy vehicle owners.

Buyers are also exempt from paying 59,700 yuan in vehicle purchase tax. Local governments, for example, Shanghai authorities offer a 30,000-yuan subsidy to new-energy vehicle buyers, who can also get a free license plate.

duxiaoying1@chinadaily.com.cn

(China Daily 04/20/2015 page4)