Exclusive looks, high speed, innovation, this is the the futuristic BMW Vision Efficient Dynamics Concept, the two-door hybrid car that was BMW’s masterpiece at the recent Frankfurt Auto Show. But it is not just another hybrid, the ED Concept can get to 62 mph in only 4.8 seconds and still uses less fuel than a Toyota Prius. That’s as quick as the Porsche 911, but with the EfficientDynamics stamp all over it.
The hybrid drivetrain of the Vision Concept, in combination with aerodynamics and optimizations in the engine itself, gives a drag coefficient of 0.22. More impressive, the ED gets 62.2 mpg and emits a Prius-like 99 grams of CO2 per kilometer. The Prius is rated at 51 city/48 highway/50 combined.
The 3-cylinder turbodiesel engine has a rear/mid-mounted placement with the second electric motor residing between the turbodiesel engine and the 6-Speed DCT gearbox. The 1.5-liter 3-cylinder turbodiesel engine outputs 163 horsepower and 214 lb-ft. of torque. The rear-mounted electric motor produces 33 horsepower continuously(51 hp peak) and maximum torque of 214 lb-ft.
The synchronous electric motor placed at the front axle constantly outputs 80 horsepower. Extra power of 112 hp is available for 30 seconds and for 10 seconds, 139 horsepower. Total torque: 162 lb-ft.
All that tech is housed in a body designed with some serious inspiration from BMW’s Formula 1 cars and for the first time, the layering design approach is being used, both inside and outside.
Complementing the Vision’s futuristic exterior design with its “bird wings doors”, the interior of the car has a flowing instrument panel and unique seating arrangement. The upholstery is mostly made with natural materials although Kevlar is used for the seats. A car with this styling needs adequate gadgetry and a new 3D head-up display is included.
Being at the L.A. Auto Show last week, we had the opportunity to enjoy again the Vision Concept and it was one of the cars that draw the most visitors. As always, plenty of photos are available in our gallery, along with a funny shot: our website showing a Vision Concept rendering with the actual concept in the background.
[Photos: John Hietter ]
Author: Horatiu B.
Source: http://www.bmwblog.com/2009/12/10/wallp ... s-concept/