BMW released a long list of details last week to flesh out the Vision EfficientDynamics concept vehicle to be presented at next week’s Frankfurt Motor Show. The BMW Vision EfficientDynamics is a plug-in hybrid car capable of hitting a top speed of 155 miles per hour. This concept car balances a miserly fuel mileage rate of 62 miles per gallon with low carbon dioxide emissions to meet European Union regulations. The details to follow built off BMW’s slight release about the Vision EfficientDynamics concept at the end of July.
This concept car is powered in large part by a 10.8kWh lithium-polymer battery consisting of 98 individual cells. The battery pack works with a 163-horsepower, 1.50-liter turbodiesel engine to create a smooth and fuel efficient ride. BMW installed its second-generation hybrid unit on the rear axle and a 60kW electric motor on the front axle to minimize lost energy between components. The Vision EfficientDynamics would be capable of traveling on all-electric power for 31 miles if put into production.
BMW’s Vision EfficientDynamics design does not sacrifice looks and aerodynamics for a fuel-efficient drive system. This 48-foot long concept vehicle was based on the sleek aerodynamics of Formula 1 cars. The Vision EfficientDynamics features a fully covered underside, front air dams and wider tires to create a favorable vehicle profile for highway driving. These features were incorporated by BMW designers to reduce drag and make this concept car look great on the show floor.
BMW has also gone to great lengths to ensure that the Vision EfficientDynamics concept is smarter than past eco-friendly models. The onboard computer collects information on average speed, turn tendencies and outdoor conditions to determine how energy should be allocated in the future. The Car 2 Car system allows one car to contact another Vision EfficientDynamics unit to communicate traffic tendencies. The Car 2 Infrastructure system theoretically works with sensors in public buildings, traffic lights and other structures to determine drive times. BMW is also bundling other great features like Eco Mode, EPS Electronic Power Steering and Brake Assistant into the Vision EfficientDynamics car to show the future of intelligent car design. The Vision EfficientDynamics concept vehicle may only be a distant dream but the components and hybrid systems featured at Frankfurt will be used in upcoming hybrid models.
