Maximising the performance of a BMW 530e - Stage 1 remap + ZF8 gearbox remap

There is tremendous scope to improve the performance and driveability of a BMW 530e, as proven in a recent tuning project completed by Optimal Automotive. Our customer travelled a two hour round-trip from Ipswich for our stage 1 engine remap and ZF8 gearbox remap on his 530e, and the results were seriously impressive for just a software upgrade.

This plug-in hybrid combines masses of instantly available torque with BMW’s proven 2.0-litre turbocharged B48 engine, but like many modern BMWs, the stock calibration leaves plenty of performance on the table. With a carefully developed ECU and gearbox tune, we were able to transform it into a performance sleeper saloon - all while retaining smooth drivability and factory-level reliability.

Enquire about a BMW 530e remap

Maximising the performance of a BMW 530e - Dyno proven gains

Validated using DynoPro, the car produced a gain of +100bhp and +147Nm over stock. This is a huge improvement from a pre-developed stage 1 tune, especially as the car was running on E10 petrol.

• Power gain: +100 bhp

• Torque gain: +147 Nm

• Fuel: E10 petrol

• Transmission: ZF8HP automatic gearbox (remapped)

We also tested the car using Dragy GPS timing, confirming just how much faster it is in a realistic driving scenario - a 3rd gear acceleration pull:

• 30–70 mph: 1.44 seconds quicker

• 50–70 mph: 0.86 seconds quicker

  
  

That’s a major difference you can feel every time you put your foot down.

Maximising the performance of a BMW 530e - ZF8 gearbox remap benefits

Remapping the ZF8HP gearbox is key to unlocking the full potential of the 530e, but is often an overlooked aspect by car owners. Our gearbox calibration works hand-in-hand with the engine tune to deliver sharper shifts, faster response, and maximise available torque.

Our matching gearbox remap features:

• Optimised shift points for both manual and auto modes

• Faster, smoother upshifts

• Reduced kickdown lag

• Full torque delivery in every gear

The result is a car that feels alive and more responsive, without the hesitation or lag you might notice in the factory setup.

More about gearbox remapping

Maximising the performance of a BMW 530e - Custom tuning when using E5 Fuel

If you are able to use E5 or premium 99RON fuel, we offer custom tuning for even higher performance gains - typically around +120–130bhp and +220–240Nm over factory figures. Using on-road engine datalogs, our custom tuning service is a bespoke ECU calibration specific to your engine - providing the ultimate upgrade without making any physical upgrades to the engine.

Maximising the performance of a BMW 530e - Stage 2 package with custom tuning

Would you like your BMW 530e to keep up with an M340i? With the addition of a cold-air performance air intake to replace the factory airbox and a sports catalyst (or decat for motorsport use), the BMW 530e becomes a real sleeper. With our custom stage 2 tune and E5 petrol, performance can reach up-to 390bhp and 690Nm.

Maximising the performance of a BMW 530e stage 1 remap - Available in East Anglia

At Optimal Automotive, we specialise in BMW tuning and gearbox remapping across East Anglia, covering our local area of Haverhill, and further afield in Cambridge, Bury St Edmunds, Newmarket, Sudbury, Ipswich and everywhere in between. Our remap packages for the BMW 530e are dyno-proven, data-driven, and developed to deliver exceptional results without compromising reliability.

Maximising the performance of a BMW 530e - Thinking about tuning yours?

If you own a BMW 530e (G30/G31) and want to experience what your car is truly capable of, our Stage 1 + ZF8 gearbox remap package is the perfect upgrade.

👉 Get in touch today to discuss your vehicle or book your remap:

📱 Call or WhatsApp us on 07361 228082

🌐 Visit: www.optimal-automotive.co.uk

📍 Based in Haverhill – serving all of East Anglia