Vision EfficientDynamics

BMW, the ultimate driving machine has created another futuristic driving machine:  Vision EfficientDynamics

This coupe is a combination of lightweight construction and plug-in hybrid drive technology. Many of the concepts are planned for use on upcoming BMW road cars, including an exciting Z10 EfficientDynamics range-topping model due by 2015.

The exterior, which employs advanced layering technology to layer the various pieces of the Vision’s bodywork over each other. The process smoothes out joints and seams and help to reduce the number of overall components. The wild bits and pieces jutting off the car are all there for a reason. At the front, the A-pillars are designed to guide air around the greenhouse where a wrap-around spoiler, fin-like rear fenders and blade-like taillights all duct the airflow off the back of the car to in an effort to further minimize turbulence and drag.

At the heart of the concept car is an advanced diesel-electric hybrid system, based on a compact turbocharged 1.5-liter, three-cylinder common-rail diesel engine that will first appear in the second-generation 1-series due in 2011.

The powerful front-mounted engine has 163 hp and 214 lb-ft of torque, making it more powerful than the latest and most-economical version of BMW’s existing turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder.

The diesel engine is supported by a pair of electric motors mounted at the front of the gearbox, one supplying drive to the rear wheels, the other to the front wheels via a single-speed transmission.

BMW says its hybrid concept should be good for a combined fuel-economy rating of 90.2 mpg.

Electricity comes from plugging into to the grid, or from regenerative braking and coasting. Recharging is estimated at 2.5 hours at 220 volts, or just 44 minutes at 380 volts. The 187-lb lithium-polymer battery pack produces up to 364 volts and has a storage capacity of 10.8 kilowatt-hours.

Depending on the driving conditions, the Vision EfficientDynamics is engineered to run exclusively on its electric motors, the diesel engine or a combination of diesel and electric motors. Maximum range in pure electric mode is estimated at 31 miles, with the diesel engine offering an additional 400 miles.

Inside, the Vision EfficientDynamics offers 2+2 seating, accessed via butterfly-style doors that extend along the complete side of the car. A prominent center tunnel divides the plush leather-lined interior, which features a futuristic-looking dashboard and associated trim panels mirroring the layered surfacing of the exterior.
With this new and revolutionary technology, BMW will have winner in next few years

BMW Vision EfficientDynamics