BMW is working on an ultra-efficient hybrid electric vehicle, reports German outlet Auto Motor und Sport, quoting an initial story by Automobilwoche. At an electric-vehicle conference, the Bavarian carmaker spoke about a concept with a rear-mounted, turbocharged two-cylinder range-extending engine and an electric motor with unspecified output. The model is supposed to weigh 2650 pounds and achieve 588 mpg on the highly optimistic European test cycle for plug-in hybrids.
-The concept is designed with a body and chassis made largely from carbon fiber, and BMW points out that the four-seater sports a trunk that fits a generous 12.3 cubic feet of luggage. The drag coefficient is said to be a low 0.18, and the vehicle is fitted with a lithium-ion battery pack. Top speed would exceed 112 mph.
-The model could look like these patented drawings unearthed by the Chinese website pcauto.com.cn. (You can see more views at Auto Motor und Sport.) We like its looks; they combine styling elements of the i3 and the i8 with normal-ish, very Toyota-like proportions. The Toyota look is quite appropriate, since the two companies have partnered up on various projects.
--
- -
- Der Supra: East Meets West in the Toyota/BMW Sports-Car Partnership
- -
- Driven: The Volkswagen XL1, the 283-mpg Hyper-Hybrid
- -
- BMW and Audi Developing Carbon Fiber That’s 90-Percent Cheaper
- -
-
In an official statement, BMW has acknowledged the existence of the project. But it is said to have little chance of series production, which isn’t exactly surprising, given the poor market performance of the i3 electric vehicle.
-Agya Club Indonesia
