BMW CEO confirms hybrid 3-Series, FWD subcompact
Just as if you couldn”t get any more news about new hybrid powertrains coming out, BMW AG has just recently confirmed plans to offer the next generation F30 3-Series and their new front-wheel drive subcompact with hybrid powerplants.
“We will continue to update our model range,” said Dr. Norbert Reithofer, Chairman of the Board of Management of BMW AG. “This includes other hybrid offerings such as the new BMW 5-Series Sedan with hybrid drive starting in 2011. The next generation of the BMW 3-Series will also include hybrid models.”
The F30 is aimed to be released in 2012, starting with the sedan, with the Touring, Coupe and Convertible versions following short after. The new front-wheel drive subcompact is BMW”s next project. It will be contributing to the supermini-segment and will sit under the current 1-Series. This suggests that the new model might be called the 2-Series.
“In the future, we intend to participate even more in the growth of the small car segment,” said Reithofer. “This is why we are planning to offer smaller BMW models ““ positioned below the BMW 3-Series ““ with front-wheel drive. These models with front-wheel drive will also be made available to our customers with a hybrid engine.”
Quite interesting after James May quoted the heifers at BMW who said that front-wheel drive was “the work of Satan.” There are also plans for BMW to collaborate with PSA Peugeot-Citroen Group for development of the new FWD Hybrid models.
“Our cooperation is focused on developing and producing components for hybrid front-wheel drives. Additional economies of scale will be achieved by pooling certain purchasing activities. I am talking specifically about e-drives, generators, and power electronics that control the interaction between a battery and electric drive,” Reithofer added.
FWD BMWs may see its market debut as early as 2012. BMW with FWD? We can wait.
– By: Chris Chin
Source: BMW (via CarScoop)
