BMW first implemented the mild-hybrid technology in the 5 Series last year and is expected to be seen in the 3 Series, X3 and X4 by Q2 of 2020.

The mild-hybrid technology helps lighten the combustion engine’s workload and boosts its power. With a 48V starter-generator, the Brake Energy Regeneration is better utilized as the energy harnessed can be used for additional drive power to boost fuel efficiency.

Another benefit of the mild-hybrid system is the refinement of the combustion engine’s stop start function. It allows the engine to be switched on or off with very little vibration, like hybrids.

The system also allows the engine to be completely shut off when in coasting mode, rather than just disconnecting the drivetrain, which further enhances fuel efficiency.

Curiously, the mild-hybrid technology is only adopted in diesel variants. And BMW Malaysia has stopped selling all diesel variants in light of the B10 biodiesel implementation.

It’s unlikely that there will be any BMW with mild-hybrid technology anytime soon in Malaysia. But the technology is expected to be adopted in more BMW models, even M models. So we’ll keep our eyes peeled.