| Concept Preview | 2008 Geneva Motor Show | BMW Vision EfficientDynamics concept |
BMW will use the
Geneva motorshow as a platform to show off its new Vision EfficientDynamics concept, which is based on an X5. The Vision is a 'mild hybrid' and has some previously unseen technology from BMW.
The Vision uses the twin-turbo diesel 2.0-litre engine from the
BMW 123d that produces 204bhp and 295lb.ft of torque, which BMW says would be enough for this unit to replace a larger turbodiesel. Economy of 43.5mpg is backed up by carbon dioxide emissions of 172g/km.
Assisting the turbodiesel engine is a mild hybrid generator that can supply up to 20bhp of additional power. Electrical energy is scavenged when the Vision is cruising or slowing down and the energy is stored in lithium-ion batteries.
Also helping to charge the batteries are solar panels mounted on the roof of the Vision. These panels also supply energy to the engine to help it warm up more quickly, which saves fuel and emissions when the engine is cold.
The 2.0-litre turbodiesel drives through a new eight-speed automatic gearbox that has been developed to give faster, more efficient gear changes. BMW also says that the gearbox will always select the right gear for the conditions to give the most efficient drive.
BMW has also redesigned the X5's alloy wheels for the Vision version, reducing aerodynamic drag. This means the Vision needs less power to travel at any given speed, helping to cut emissions and improve economy further.
BMW says the Vision is purely a concept car, but that most of the technology featured will make its way into production models in the very near future.
Alisdair Suttie - 22 Feb 2008