BMW HAS unveiled its new Vision EfficientDynamics concept. Taking the form of a four-seat coupé of similar size to the 3 Series coupé, the radical show car boasts performance comparable to the current M3 – 0-100km/h in 4.8 seconds and a top speed of 250km/h – yet CO2 emissions of only 99g/km and combined cycle economy of 3.8 litres per 100km.
The figures are attributed to the concept’s hybrid powertrain, which combines a mid-mounted, three-cylinder turbodiesel engine with a powerful electric motor on each axle. In full power mode, the total system output is 351bhp and 800Nm of torque, yet the coupé can also travel for 50km on electricity alone.
A bank of lithium ion batteries nestle in the “spine” of the show car and they can be charged by plugging into a domestic electricity supply, as well as by recuperating energy from the motor/generators under braking. Additional energy is recovered from heat in the exhaust of the diesel engine.
Other innovations include a three-dimensional heads-up display and light-reactive polycarbonate cockpit glass.
The Vision EfficientDynamics concept will take centre stage on the BMW stand at this month’s Frankfurt Motor Show.