Selasa, 14 Juni 2011

BMW VISION

        With so many production hybrids looking fugly (Prius, Insight, etc.), BMW is keen to associate its new technology with high performance and  exciting exteriors. Its Vision EfficientDynamics concept (revealed in depth at eurotuner.com) is a great example of this.
       Its exo-skeletal bodywork was inspired by aerodynamic lessons learnt during BMW`s F1 experience. More importantly, a three-cylinder turbo-diesel engine and two electric motors make the Vision capable of M3 performance with a fraction the M3's emissions.
        The striking concept has a projected 356hp thanks to 163hp from the 1.5-liter three-cylinder turbo-diesel engine mounted ahead of the rear axle.
       The hybrid drivetrain features two electric motors, one on each axle. The rear motor produces up to 51hp and 214 lb-ft, while the second motor is capable of  80hp and 160 lb-ft of torque. However, an overboost function allows the driver to increase this to 112hp for a 30sec boost and 140hp for a 10-sec power enhancer.
       These figures equate to 356hp and 590 lb-ft, making it capable of 0-62mph in 4.8sec and 155mph top speed.
       At lower speeds, only the electric drive functions. The diesel engine can be the  sole power source or can work in conjunction with the electric drive to generate the impressive acceleration above. Alternatively, the diesel engine and a Brake Energy Regeneration system can be used to charge the electric battery pack as well.
       The battery packs run through the middle of  the car, while a 6.6 gallon fuel tank is located in the rear of  the central chassis tunnel. Running on diesel alone, the Vision is able to cover about 400 miles. It also has a range of  31 miles in all-electric mode, giving it an overall range of  up to 431 miles. Its fuel consumption equates to 62.6mpg in the European test cycle.
       This truly is a fascinating concept, and clearly this technology could see production in 5-10 years, with perhaps a version powering a future M3.

Words by GREG EMMERSON
First Drives :  ELECTRIC AVENUE
eurotuner,  march  2010          


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