The future of mobility

THE BMW Group has been showcasing its visions of future mobility in the shape of the BMW i3 Concept and BMW i8 Concept studies.

Unveiled for the first time, these concept vehicles provide a glimpse of the first electrically-powered production cars from the new BMW i sub-brand, due to be launched as the BMW i3 in 2013 and the BMW i8 in 2014.

“We are marking another milestone in the history of the BMW Group. As chairman of the board and an engineer myself, I am very proud of this project,” said Norbert Reithofer. “As the world’s leading premium car manufacturer, our aim is to offer customers purpose-built electric-drive cars as well.”

With its zero-emission electric drive and a range of approximately 150 kilometres, the BMW i3 Concept has been specifically developed for use in an urban environment, its 125 kW electric motor and rear-wheel drive ensure BMW-style handling, designers say.

Thanks to its innovative LifeDrive architecture featuring a carbon passenger cell, the BMW i3 Concept combines an extremely low weight of 1,250 kilograms with interior space and the highest crash safety levels. With four seats and a 200-litre luggage compartment, this vehicle is fully suited for everyday use.

“This vehicle will mark the launch of the first volume-produced car featuring bodywork largely made of carbon. It’s a revolution in automotive design,” stressed Klaus Draeger, the member of the board responsible for development.

The application of this new CFRP technology allows a weight reduction, compared to a conventional electric car, of between 250 and 350 kilos, and that means better handling coupled with a greater range. The BMW i3 does the 0-100 km/h sprint in less than eight seconds, while a high-speed charger achieves an 80 per cent battery charge in just one hour.

Thanks to the emission-free drive-train and a value added chain designed to be sustainable all along the line, life cycle emission figures for the BMW i3 are at least a third lower than for a highly-efficient combustion-engine car. If it is run on electricity from renewable sources, the figures improve by well over 50 per cent.

Meanwhile, the BMW i8 Concept goes from 0 - 100 km/h in less than five seconds and boasts fuel consumption of under three litres per 100km.

Its plug-in hybrid drive allows a range of up to 35 kilometres in electric mode – sufficient for most everyday journeys. For more dynamic driving or out-of-town routes, a high-performance three-litre petrol engine also comes into play.
 
The sports car has an electronically governed top speed of 250 km/h and space for up to four occupants.

“The BMW i8 Concept is the sports car for a new generation – pure, emotional and sustainable,” Mr Draeger added.

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