BMW has confirmed that it will reveal a new plug-in hybrid model based on the long-wheelbase version of the 5-Series sedan at next month’s Shanghai Motor Show. Dubbed the New Energy Vehicle, the plug-in will be built and sold exclusively in China.
“This model will be our e-car from China for China,†BMW CEO Norbert Reithofer said. “This car will benefit from the strength and excellent reputation of the BMW brand.â€
The New Energy Vehicle will likely use a version of the hybrid system first seen in the ActiveHybrid 5 Concept. That show car used a six-cylinder gas engine mated to an electric motor, with the New Energy Vehicle adding plug-in capabilities.
Given the confirmation of the New Energy Vehicle, we might finally see the production version of the ActiveHybrid 5 at the upcoming New York Auto Show. It was thought that the ActiveHybrid 5 would make an appearance at the Geneva Motor Show, but the greener sedan never made an appearance.
On the opposite end of the 5-Series spectrum, the next-generation M5 is also expected to make its world debut at the Shanghai show.
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1.’BMW CEO…’ view
