Recently, it was reported that SMC Asia Car Distributors, the official distributor of BMW in the Philippines, is set to introduce two new plug-in hybrid (PHEV) vehicles.

According to sources, the automaker will soon launch the X5 xDrive 50e and the 7 Series 750e xDrive, with a potential arrival of the all-new M5 in the country as well.

Both PHEVs will be equipped with a 3.0-litre twin-turbo inline-six engine combined with an electric motor, producing 490 PS and 700 Nm of torque, and providing an electric range of between 55 and 64 km.

Additionally, BMW is reportedly preparing to introduce another plug-in hybrid model to the market. The automaker recently received regulatory approval for a new passenger vehicle with a 1,998cc petrol engine, equivalent to a 2.0-litre engine.

This is likely the B48 four-cylinder engine, which powers several BMW models. According to an anonymous source, the upcoming plug-in hybrid model is expected to be the X3 xDrive30e.

In other markets, the X3 xDrive30e comes with a 2.0-litre turbocharged engine, an electric motor, and a 12 kWh battery, delivering a combined system output of 248 PS (increasing to 282 PS with Electric Boost) and 420 Nm of torque, paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. BMW claims the X3 xDrive30e can travel up to 48 km on a full charge.

With the reported expansion of BMW's plug-in hybrid offerings, this trio of PHEVs could help the automaker secure a larger share of the electrified vehicle market. As BMW Philippines already provides both ICE and EV models, the addition of PHEVs to the line-up offers customers enhanced flexibility in choosing a model that aligns with their preferences.