BMW Vision EfficientDynamics Plug in Hybrid Concept 2009

For the 2009 IAA Frankfurt Motor Show, BMW is introducing an exceptional Grand Touring 2+ 2 Plug in Hybrid Concept with performance capability claimed to be similar to a M3. Offering full hybrid concept, the BMW Vision EfficientDynamics concept car is powered by a three cylinder turbodiesel and two electric motors. The overall system output is 262 kW/356 hp and maximum torque of 800 Nm/ 590 lb-ft. All-wheel drive features an electric motor on both the front and rear axle. Anticipated performances are acceleration from standstill to 100 kph (62 mph) in 4,8sec, a top speed electronically limited to 250 kph (155 mph), a fuel consumption in the European test cycle 3,76 litres/100 km ( equal to 75,1 mpg (UK) and CO2 emission of 99 g/km. In electric only drive, the CO2 emission rating is just 50 g/km taking into account the sources of energy used for generating electric power consumed (European electricity mix). The car is able to cover a distance of approximately 50 km/ 31 miles in the electric mode alone.

The original technology-oriented body design is a clear expression of consistent lightweight technology and aerodynamic performance. The styling design is typical of BMW brand. The roof and door inserts are made of polycarbonate glass and automatically become darker as a function of oncoming light. The BMW Vision EfficientDynamics comes with forward swinging doors opening uo to the side.

The three cylinder 1,5 litres engine follows the downsizing principle using relatively small engine capacity combined with a turbocharger to reduce fuel consumption. Through its compact dimensions, the three cylinder fits conveniently in front of the rear axle like in a mid-engined sports car despite the two seats at the rear. Engine output is 120 kW/163 hp and peak torque is 290 Nm/214 lb-ft. The power delivered by the turbodiesel is conveyed to the rear axle by means of a double-clutch gearbox.

The combustion engine is complemented by two electric motors, choosing the optimum combination of a hybrid synchronous motor at the front axle and a full-hybrid system at the rear. The rear axle comes with a second generation full-hybrid system where the electric motor is positioned between the combustion engine and the gearbox. The rear axle electric motor develops a consistent 25 kW and is able of peak to 38 kW.

A second electric motor acts on the front axle, developping a permanent output of 60 kW and peak torque of 220 Nm/162 lb-ft. Power is transmitted through a two-stage, single speed reduced ratio gearbox.

The BMW Vision EfficientDynamics Concept is able to run completely under electric power, with the power of the turbodiesel alone, or through an infinite combination of the three power sources. Depending on driving conditions and the driver's particular requirements, the two electric motors may be used both for accelerating and for regenerating energy when applying the brakes and in overrun. The electric energy is stored in 98 lithium-polymer cells that can generate nominal 364 Volt with gross storage capacity of 10,8 kWh. The overall weight of the entire storage system is 85 kg/187 lb. The Lithium-polymer storage is located at the center of the floor between the seats. Connected to the regular domestic power outlet (220 V, 16 Amps) the system requires a maximum of 2,5 hours to fully charge and whenever a power source with higher voltage (380 V, 32 Amps) is available, the charge time is 44 minutes at the most.

Measuring only 1,24 m/48,8 inches in height and boasting a sweeping arch-like roofline, the BMW Vision EfficientDynamics Concept offers a slender silhouette of a classic Gran Turismo. With the engine combustion engine fitted in front of the rear axle, the designers have succeeded in giving the car a very low and sleek front end, with the flow of air depending on driving conditions being further smoothered by active louvers in the radiator closing completely whenever the need for cooling is relatively low. The vehicle drag coefficient is quoted for 0,22. Overall weight of 1395 kg/3.076 lbis obtained by use of aluminium for the chassis and carbon fiber composite for the body or polycarbonate glass for the roof and door transparent inserts. Energy efficiency is also improved by integrating Stop and Start system and water cooled Thermo Electrical Generator integrated in the exhaust system of the turbodiesel engine.

Overall lenght 4,6 m /181,1 inches; width 1,9 m/74,8 inches; height 1,24 m/ 48,8 inches; luggage capacity 150 litres/5,3 cu.ft (backrest of the two rear seats may be tilted down for extra storage)

Text Paul Damiens - Photos & Illustrations BMW

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