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BMW Megacity concept at Olympics

The Megacity will be used to chauffeur athletes, officials and media during the London Games and Paralympics. BMW will also provide a range of low-emission and electric vehicles, bicycles and motorbikes.

A concept version of the company's Megacity zero emission city car is expected to be one of 4000 vehicles to be provided by BMW for the Olympics.  BMW Australia spokesman, Piers Scott, says as one of the official automotive partners to the 2012 Olympics, the Munich-based carmaker will push the brand's ‘efficient dynamics’ message.

"It is a wonderful opportunity to showcase our credentials," he says.  Scott says he expects the Olympic small car to be a showcase concept more than an actual production model.

"Obviously it there will be an emphasis on our technologies," he says.  Apart from the Megacity concept, other Olympic cars are likely to include the 3 Series sedan and wagon and possibly the hydrogen-powered 7 Series.

The cars will be used to chauffeur athletes, officials and media during the London Games and Paralympics.  BMW will also provide a range of low-emission and electric vehicles, bicycles and motorbikes.

Some of the BMW Olympic fleet will be wheelchair-accessible too.  The company plans to convert a number of vehicles for use by disabled drivers and passengers.

The Megacity boasts a futuristic design with a light-weight carbon fibre reinforced plastic body.  At 4m long, the two-door four-seater coupe will be slightly longer and higher than the Mini Cooper.

It will be powered by a rear-drive electric motor with a lithium-ion battery pack.  BMW estimates the Megacity will have a range of at least 160km and a top speed of 153km/h.

The car is being developed as part of ‘Project I’.  It will be available from 2013 under a sub-brand of BMW.  Although the company has not chosen a name, some European media outlets have suggested BMW could resurrect the dormant Isetta brand.  Eventually, other Megacity models will be unveiled.

A second model, dubbed ICV for Intracity Vehicle, will be launched in 2015.  It will retain the two-door layout, but drop the rear seats.

Around 2017, BMW will unveil the UCV for Urban Commuter Vehicle, which features an extended wheelbase, four doors and seating for five.