BMW concept hybrid on show

…..with a truly spectacular and futuristic concept car, the Vision EfficientDynamics, appearing as the sole hero BMW at the show, and representing the future of the BMW mobility.

Adding to the growing list of concept cars appearing at the Melbourne event, the BMW Vision EfficientDynamics is a four-seater sports car featuring avant-garde design, futuristic technology, impressive performance and unsurpassed efficiency figures.

The combination of a three-cylinder turbo-diesel with a hybrid synchronous motor at the front axle and a full hybrid engine at the rear axle enables a maximum power output for the system of 241kW.

This innovative technology allows the BMW Vision EfficientDynamics to achieve 0–100km/h in just 4.8 seconds – extremely impressive for a car that also achieves 3.76 litres per 100 kilometres, and a CO2 emission rating of just 99 grams per kilometre.

The eye-catching performance, efficiency and emissions figures are no doubt helped by the 1.24-metre high coupe’s slippery shape – with an aerodynamic drag coefficient of just 0.22.

As a “plug-in” hybrid, the Vision EfficientDynamics features a lithium-polymer rechargeable battery housed centrally in a longitudinal chassis element, which can be fully charged at a conventional power socket within just two-and-a-half hours.

The electrical stores of the BMW permit zero emissions motoring for a range of 50 kilometres – with the 24-litre diesel tank, that range extends up to 700 kilometres.

While it may look like a motor show-only concept that will never see a showroom floor, the wild-looking vehicle is expected to make it into production as the BMW i8 by 2013.

BMW’s new i sub-brand has been established to focus on developing sustainable mobility solutions, and the i8 has been announced as one of the first two vehicles to launch.

Australian International Motor Show event director Russ Tyrie says the BMW Vision EfficientDynamics Concept is what motor shows are about.

“It’s a sexy concept car that previews incredible futuristic technology,” said Mr Tyrie.

“They are the two elements that make motor shows exciting."

“The good news is that it actually is a true representation of vehicles that we will be driving in the future – given BMW’s plans for its new i sub-brand."

“If the Vision EfficientDynamics Concept is what the future is going to look like, I’m pretty sure motor show visitors are going to be keen to sign up for that future.”

Phil Horton, BMW Group Australia managing director believes that the Vision EfficientDynamics is a true representation of the direction of BMW both globally and locally.

“Through the Australian International Motor Show in Melbourne we have the rare opportunity to exhibit a concept car to Australians that exemplifies everything BMW represents, in terms of our dedication to increasing efficiency and minimising emissions while never compromising the performance BMW is famous for.

“By varying our approach this year and steering away from showing the usual BMW range we are free to present something for visitors to get even more excited about, as this is the future for BMW customers.

“The Vision EfficientDynamics Concept is proof that improving the efficiency and emissions of motor vehicles does not have to mean anything less than exhilaration and absolute driving pleasure – because creating the Ultimate Driving Machine will always sit at the heart of every car BMW produces.”

The Australian International Motor Show is on at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre and opens at 6pm on Friday 1 July and runs until Sunday 10 July.