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BMW Reveals its own Vision

September 2nd, 2009 by Steve Cypher

The Munich based manufacturer will show a stunning hybrid concept at the upcoming Frankfurt Motor Show

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Vision EfficientDynamics Concept

Late last week BMW released images of its latest concept vehicle, the BMW Vision EfficientDynamics Concept, which will be revealed to the public for the first time at the upcoming Frankfurt Motor Show.

The Vision, executed in a 2+2 body style, uses plug-in full hybrid technology and, in the words of BMW, “combines the performance of a BMW M vehicle with a standard of fuel efficiency and emission management that exceeds even the current levels achieved by the latest small cars.”

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To accomplish this feat, BMW used a “clean-sheet” design and engineering process for the Vision. A three-cylinder 1.5-liter turbo-diesel that produces 163 hp (109/liter) and 214 lb.-ft of torque and is supplemented by two electric motors, one for the front axle and one for the rear axle. Much like a mid-engine vehicle, the diesel is fitted forward of the rear axle with an electric motor positioned between the engine and a 6-speed double-clutch transmission (DCT).

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Power and performance

Power output for the rear electric motor is constant 33 hp with a possible peak of 51 hp. Maximum torque is 214 lb.-ft. either supporting the engine or in all-electric mode. The second electric motor on the front axle offers a continuous output of 80 hp and peak torque of 162 lb.-ft. with 112 hp available for up to 30 seconds and 139 horsepower available for 10-second “bursts”.

In total, the overall output is 356 horsepower with a peak torque rating of 590 lb.-ft. (a maximum output for passing and quick acceleration situations). Top speed is electronically limited to 155 mph, with a 0-62 mph time of 4.8 seconds. Fuel consumption is excellent, with an EU test cycle equivalent to 62.6 mpg.

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Energy is stored in 98 lithium-polymer battery cells (with a total weight of just 187 lbs.) which can be charged via regenerative braking or, as the need arises, through a plug-in solution (the European 220 V, 16 Amp system will fully charge the Vision in 2.5 hours or less). A 6.6 gallon fuel tank gives the Vision Concept a 400 mile range, while in all-electric mode it will travel up to 31 miles, giving the vehicle a total range of nearly 431 miles.

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Style

As for its styling, suffice it to say that the BMW Vision Concept makes the current generation of Lamborghinis look quite tame in comparison. The menacing look of the vehicle’s snout morphs into flowing curves along its flanks that terminate with a flourish of curves surrounding delicate floating taillamps. Given BMW’s “clean sheet” philosophy for the Vision, it will be interesting to see of any of its design cues make their way into the brand’s production vehicles in the future.

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