A good horse does not jump higher than it has to, as the saying goes. The old wisdom may explain a little why manufacturers sometimes do not size the batteries in plug-in hybrids larger than is absolutely necessary. BMW has apparently exaggerated this with the Mini Countryman PHEV, because from January 2021 there will be more stringent rules for the innovation bonus.

The rules for funding are clearly formulated in the Federal Gazette: “An electric vehicle within the meaning of this guideline is, according to the definition in § 2 EmoG … an external one Hybrid electric vehicles that can be recharged from the outside are those whose maximum CO2 emissions per kilometer 44 do not exceed grams or a certain minimum range exclusive use of the electric drive machine. If purchased by 31. December 2021 this electrical minimum range is 40 km, if purchased after the 31 December 2021 and before January 1st 2025 it is 59 km and when purchased after January 1st 2025 this is 80 km. ”

The manufacturers have negotiated skilfully because the outdated NEDC cycle is used for this. In the current WLTP consumption recording, BMW names the Mini Cooper SE Countryman ALL4 44 to 52 km.

Precautionary increase The Countryman Hybrid was only in summer 2020 the battery capacity from 7.6 to 10 Gross kWh has been increased to meet future requirements. Since then, BMW has promised 60 km range in E-mode – as required by law for applying for the purchase premium from 2021 required. In internal tests, however, it was found that it was only 59 km, reports the Süddeutsche Newspaper. At least for all models that will not be delivered until next year, BMW wants to submit an update. With improved battery management, the range is to be raised to the minimum legal requirement of 60 km. On the other hand, it can be considered certain that BMW will never adjust the battery capacity again – the expense for this would probably be a financial disaster.

(mfz)