Photo: Stefan Baldauf/SB-Medien
For the seventh generation of the 3 Series, the peeps at BMW have lots of goodies in the pipeline for us. If a particular rumor turns out to be true, then the G20 will also be available as an EV.
This hearsay comes from AutoExpress. The British publication is alleging that the BMW G20 3 Series is “set to get an all-electric version during its lifetime” and “the manufacturer is also planning to take on the forthcoming Tesla Model 3 by offering not only a plug-in hybrid version of the car, but also a fully electric edition.” Does the rumor hold water, though? No clue, sorry.
However, think about it this way. The BMW 7 Series (G11/G12) is built on the CLAR platform, a highly customizable vehicle architecture that will also underpin the next generation of the 3 Series. The plant where the 7 Series is made (Dingolfing) also produces eDrive bits and bobs for BMW i models and PHEVs such as the 330e iPerformance. So yes, the stage is set for a 3er EV.
While BMW has never mentioned if the CLAR platform has been engineered with electrification in mind, AutoExpress mentions the following tittle-tattle: “BMW’s engineers are said to be working on the installation of a 90 kWh battery pack, potentially giving the 3 Series EV – which is likely to carry the badge eDrive Sport – a range of around 300 miles" (482.8 km). Estimated time of arrival for the BMW 3 Series eDrive Sport? Not later than 2020.
While this mumbo-jumbo is nothing more than a rumor at this point in time, one thing is certain. And that is the 2018 BMW 3 Series will make its public debut next year. Word on the street is Frankfurt will be the place of unveiling. If the BMW G20 3 Series does not happen, then the 330e iPerformance will soldier on with its 2.0-liter turbo and electric motor driving the rear wheels. If PHEVs aren't your thing, don't forget that a BMW i5 is in the offing.
However, think about it this way. The BMW 7 Series (G11/G12) is built on the CLAR platform, a highly customizable vehicle architecture that will also underpin the next generation of the 3 Series. The plant where the 7 Series is made (Dingolfing) also produces eDrive bits and bobs for BMW i models and PHEVs such as the 330e iPerformance. So yes, the stage is set for a 3er EV.
While BMW has never mentioned if the CLAR platform has been engineered with electrification in mind, AutoExpress mentions the following tittle-tattle: “BMW’s engineers are said to be working on the installation of a 90 kWh battery pack, potentially giving the 3 Series EV – which is likely to carry the badge eDrive Sport – a range of around 300 miles" (482.8 km). Estimated time of arrival for the BMW 3 Series eDrive Sport? Not later than 2020.
While this mumbo-jumbo is nothing more than a rumor at this point in time, one thing is certain. And that is the 2018 BMW 3 Series will make its public debut next year. Word on the street is Frankfurt will be the place of unveiling. If the BMW G20 3 Series does not happen, then the 330e iPerformance will soldier on with its 2.0-liter turbo and electric motor driving the rear wheels. If PHEVs aren't your thing, don't forget that a BMW i5 is in the offing.
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