Report: BMW and Mini to share plug-in hybrids

Filed under: Hybrid, Europe, Technology, Crossover, Hatchback, Mini, Rumormill

From the whispers we're hearing, BMW plans on mixing its DNA with Mini even further. The Bavarian-obsessed minds at BimmerFile are reporting that the German automaker is currently hard at work on a partnership with Getrag to produce a new hybrid powertrain to be shared between both BMW and Mini. Details are skimpy at the moment, but BimmerFile has ventured a few guesses as to what we can expect from the platform when it debuts. Word is that the system will likely boast a plug-in capacity that it will probably show up on larger Mini models like the Countryman and its rumored BMW counterpart.

There's also some indication that the hybridized drivetrain will keep the current 120 horsepower four-cylinder at the heart of the system. The move is only part of the BMW master plan to keep Mini as efficient as possible. BimmerFile also hints that Mini may see a small turbocharged three-cylinder engine debut in a few short years with more horsepower, less weight and greater efficiency than the current four-cylinder line up. Join those thoughts with the rumored arrival of a diesel Cooper on American soil, and it begins to look like Mini will be in a good position as fuel prices continue to edge upwards.

[Source: BimmerFile]

Report: BMW and Mini to share plug-in hybrids originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 25 Jan 2011 16:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Source: http://www.autoblog.com/2011/01/25/report-bmw-and-mini-to-share-plug-in-hybrids/

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