BMW has confirmed that it will put a 2+2 plug-in hybrid car into production, based on the
Vision EfficientDynamics show car.
The concept is low and aerodynamic: 1.24 metres high with a drag coefficient of 0.22. Access to both rows of seats is by 'wing doors' that hinge on the A-pillar. For production the dramatic design may well be toned down.
Drive comes from two electric motors, one for the front and one for the rear axle. There is also a front-mounted, three-cylinder turbodiesel engine. BMW claims the system puts 328bhp at the driver's disposal - enough for 0-62mph in 4.8 seconds. Fuel economy is quoted as 75.1mpg and CO
2 emissions are 99g/km.
Electrical energy is stored in a lithium-polymer battery in the centre of the car. This can be charged from the mains in two and a half hours and allows the Vision EfficientDynamics a 31-mile 'zero emission' range. Overall, with a 24-litre diesel tank, it should be possible to cover 430 miles.
Putting the Vision EfficientDynamics concept into production is supposed to underscore BMW's position as a builder of 'sporty vehicles with exemplary efficiency'.
John Lambert - 8 Nov 2010