Low weight, easy to charge
THE BMW GROUP UNVEILED FOR THE FIRST TIME,the BMW i3 Concept and BMW i8 Concept vehicles.
These vehicles provide a glimpse of the fi rst 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.
Norbert Reithofer, Chairman of the Board of Management of BMW AG said in Frankfurt on July 29 that “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 kms, the BMW i3 Concept has been specifi cally developed for use in an urban environment, its dynamic 125 kW electric motor and rear-wheel drive ensuring BMW-style dynamic handling. 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 optimal 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 features bodywork largely made of carbon, and the application of this new CFRP (or carbon fi bre reinforced plastic) technology allows a weight reduction, compared to a conventional electric car, of between 250 and 350 kilos. That means more dynamic handling coupled with a greater range. The BMW i3 does the 0 to 100 km/h sprint in less than eight seconds, while a high-speed charger achieves an 80 per cent battery charge in just an hour.
The BMW i8 Concept goes from 0 to 100 km/h in less than fi ve seconds and boasts fuel consumption of under three litres per 100 km. Its plug-in hybrid drive with a system output of 260 kW allows a range of up to 35 kms in electric mode – suffi cient for most everyday journeys. For more dynamic driving or out-of-town routes, a high-performance three-cylinder petrol engine also comes into play. With an electronically governed top speed of 250 km/h the car can seat four occupants.
