BMW X1 xDrive25Le plug-in hybrid unveiled in China

BMW has unveiled a plug-in hybrid version of the X1 in China. Labelled X1 xDrive25Le iPerformance, this latest addition has arrived at the 2016 Chengdu Motor Show. Interestingly, it’s the first plug-in hybrid offering in the compact luxury crossover segment.

Manufactured by BMW Brilliance, the X1 plug-in hybrid is in line with China’s development policy for the NEV industry. The car was developed simultaneously with the new X1 range launched some time ago. It runs on both electricity and fuel, with the petrol engine and electric motor powering the front and rear wheels respectively. The hybrid tech is inspired by the futuristic looking i8 and will make its way to other series-produced models by BMW.

The 1.5-litre petrol engine at the front axle is mated to a 6-speed gearbox and churns out 134bhp with peak torque clocking in at 220Nm. The electric motor at the rear axle, on the other hand, produces up to 70kW (93bhp) and can deliver a peak torque of 165Nm at start-up. Thanks to BMW’s eBoost function, both power systems can provide a peak torque of 385Nm allowing a 0-100kmph time of just 7.4 seconds.

The X1 xDrive25Le iPerformance comes packed with a lithium battery with a net capacity of 10.7 kWh to provide a purely electric cruising range of 60km and a combined cruising range of 630km when working in tandem with the 35-litre fuel tank. 

Like the new 1 Series sedan, the X1 xDrive25Le iPerformance will only be available in China.