[SCOTT26]

BMW has debuted a significant model to its largest market at this year's Guangzhou Motor Show.

The introduction of a plug-in hybrid variant of the China-only long-wheelbase 5-Series. The new BMW 530 Le.


Designed exclusively for the local market, the 530Le is powered by a gasoline-electric drivetrain consisting of a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine and a compact electric motor that replaces the torque converter in the ZF-built eight-speed automatic transmission. Together, the two power sources sends about 272 horsepower to the rear wheels.

The 530Le returns approximately 112 mpg in a mixed Chinese cycle with both power sources running. BMW promises the sedan is capable of driving on electricity alone for 36 miles at speeds of up to 75 mph, but the automaker has not revealed what kind of battery pack the 530Le is fitted with and how long it takes to obtain a full charge.

Visually, the 530Le is identical to a standard long-wheelbase 5-Series save for a model-specific emblem on the trunk lid and a flap for the charging port that is strangely integrated into the left side of the rear bumper.

Built by the BMW - Brilliance joint-venture in Shenyang, China, the BMW 530Le is scheduled to go on sale across its home country next year. Pricing information and full specifications will be published over the coming months.
BMW is not planning on offering the 530Le outside of China until the next generation 5er in 2016.

[Das Johnson]

I never got why china was the only country with the Long Wheelbase F10s...

[xDrive35i]

Originally Posted by Das Johnson

I never got why china was the only country with the Long Wheelbase F10s...

Because the market there has unique needs and the price gap between a 5-series LWB and a 7-series anywhere else would be too small.

[493263]

Originally Posted by Das Johnson

I never got why china was the only country with the Long Wheelbase F10s...

Because the rich Chinese prefer the back seats over the front seats.