The leaked 1 Series GT is actually a concept plug-in hybrid

Annual growth rates of up to five per cent are expected in the premium small and compact car segment in the following years. To tap the opportunity, BMW has unleashed the Concept Active Tourer (CAT) plug-in hybrid that will be presented formally at the Paris Motor Show.

The eDrive is akin to the system used in the BMW i8 and will continue for future electric and plug-in hybrid drives. With an exterior length of 4,353 mm, a width of 1,834 mm and a total height of 1,560 mm, the CAT provides a high level of comfort, a raised seating position and a generous amount of space finished in an exclusive High Reflection Silver colour.

The striking profile (which reminds us of a more sharper styled A-Class) is enhanced thanks to integrated door handles and side sills riding on large 20-inch wheels. The short body overhangs plus the long wheelbase provides generous space despite the compact dimensions.

The rear styling is unmistakably derived from the current staple of BMW's, while the large tailgate with low load sill and wide opening provides convenient access to the luggage compartment. The door trim panels and seats are covered in light, soft leather with contrasting orange seams.

The circular instruments and the central information display are within the driver's field of vision while a full-colour Head-Up-Display can be installed as an optional extra. An innovative composite glass sunroof extends across the entire roof surface. The sunroof contains Suspended Particle Device (SPD) technology where the brightness or temperature can be altered at the press of a button, which sounds similar to that of the windows from the latest Boeing 787.

A large 10.25-inch multifunction instrument display replaces the conservative instrument cluster. The digitalised circular instruments can display the different driver modes: comfort, sport and eco pro through different indicators and colour schemes. An 8-inch display displays the new navigation system and other core functions on top of the current operating mode.

Rear passengers can experience an interesting game with the iPad app - Seismic Surf. Seismic Surf is an ecological racing game created in real time that taps on acceleration figures, engine speed and other data supplied by the CAT. The aim of the game is to collect as many points as possible achievable with a fuel-efficient driver on top of a skilful player.

The CAT utilises a new twin turbo charged 1.5-litre petrol engine based on a similar award-winning 6-cylinder engine that drives the front wheels while the electric motors drives the rear axle when necessary. A combined output of over 190bhp allows the CAT to achieve a sporty performance with low fuel consumption and emissions. The CAT accelerates to 100km/h in less than eight seconds, before topping off around 200km/h. The average fuel consumption is less than 2.5L/100km, with 60g/km CO2 emissions.

A fully charged lithium-ion battery, gives the CAT a maximum range of over 30km on electric power alone with a maximum torque of 200Nm. The battery can be charged at any 220V household power socket. A high-volt generator attached to the petrol engine charges the battery when needed.