Why did BMW make low-range plug-in hybrids, like the BMW 740e?

Range and fuel economy are very important when it comes to choosing the right plug-in hybrid. Looking at the new BMW iPerformance plug-in hybrids, namely the BMW X5 xDrive40e and 740e iPerformance, can seem puzzling. Neither of these cars have the two important factors mentioned. So why did BMW actually make low-range plug-in hybrids like these?

Both cars only offer a pure electric range of around 10 miles. BMW may say they can reach up to 14 and 19 miles but that’s far from reality in the test drives done on these cars, unless you have a fully charged battery and going downhill, weather and temperature conditions permitting.

So if it does not do much in terms of range, what’s the point? Well, BMW created these cars to slowly introduce electric technology to the customer. Not everyone is highly knowledgeable about what an electric car is. More so, a lot of customers are still hesitant to even touch electric cars.

Offering low-range plug-in hybrids allow BMW to offer them plug-in hybrid versions of cars they already buy but offer better fuel economy. It is just a plus point that they can drive completely under electric power if they choose to do so. That’s a good first taste of the EV life. Some owners may never plug them in to electric mode and that’s fine. They will get comfortable with EV technology at their own pace.

These cars also allow BMW to make profit after spending on developing these technologies. They may not be over the top but helps keep the fuel running for EV research and development for BMW.