BMW has been hard at work with their sustainable living projects, which have ultimately spawned the i3 city car and the new i8 concept. And to keep up with its exposure, BMW has just unveiled the i8 Concept in North America today at the 2011 Los Angeles Auto Show.

Power for the BMW i8 Concept comes from a modified electric-motor found in the i3. It drives the front axle while a 1.5 liter 3-cylinder gasoline engine making 220-hp and 221 lb-ft of torque moves the rear axle. Working together, the system makes 349-hp and 405 lb-ft of torque. Mated to a twin-speed transmission, the BMW i8 runs from 0 to 62 mph in less than 5 seconds with a top speed of 155 mph.

On a full charge of its lithium-ion battery, the BMW i8 can go 20 miles in full electric mode. While no total range has been provided, rumors say that the i8 is capable of going more than 400 miles on a full tank of gas and full charge. Estimated fuel-economy for the BMW i8 Concept comes in at 78 mpg.

Key Competitors: Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG E-CELL, Audi e-tron.

Power: 3-cylinder 3.0l, 220 hp (rear wheels), electric motor 129 hp (front wheels).

Transmission: Dual-clutch automatic.

Performance: 0-60 in less than 5 seconds.

Pricing: Probably more than your house.

Availability: Production model due in 2014.

Gallery

Source: egmCarTech
All Photos Copyright © Omar Rana – egmCarTech.

Toyota is teasing a bunch of its Tokyo Motor Show debuts today and one of the many vehicles to debut in Japan next month will be the Toyota Aqua, which will eventually come to the United States as the Toyota Prius C.

Toyota says that the Aqua “combines the features of a compact car with a hybrid vehicle to create a car that represents the future of compact vehicles with a groundbreaking fuel efficiency of approximately 35 km/L (under the JC08 test cycle; 40 km/L under the 10-15 test cycle).” After going through a bunch translation that means the Prius C will average somewhere in the area of 50 mpg when its comes to the United States.

Power for the Toyota Aqua/Prius C comes from a lightweight hybrid system mated to a 1.5-liter engine with a high-output motor.

The Toyota Aqua will go on sale in Japan in late Dec. 2011, and will go on sale in the United States sometime next year.

Note: As of right now, Toyota has released just one image of the Aqua/Prius C that you see above.

Electric powertrains are by no means new to the automobile industry because Toyota had invented the gasoline electric hybrid back in 1997. And although their functionality has been undoubtedly successful, a new investigation has popped up involving electric powertrains, more specifically with their battery packs.

This new investigation pops up after a Chevrolet Volt battery caught fire three weeks after a side-impact test at the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s testing center in Wisconsin. The fire engulfed the car and others surrounding it.

You may be thinking, well, what could’ve caused that and how come it hasn’t happened to other cars such as the Toyota Prius? Well, for starters, the Toyota’s hybrid powertrains have been utilizing a nickel-metal battery. The Chevrolet Volt on the other hand uses a lithium ion battery. That said, the Volt’s incident has forced a team of investigators from the NHTSA to conduct a private and thorough investigation of lithium battery packs in the application of automobiles, which means the Nissan LEAF will too be scrutinized.

“As manufacturers continue to develop vehicles of any kind — electric, gasoline, or diesel — it is critical that they take the necessary steps to ensure the safety of drivers and first responders both during and after a crash,” said the NHTSA in a statement.

However, interestingly enough, the Volt incident wasn’t isolated to the safety crash testing at the NHTSA center as there was another report of a Volt catching fire in a residential garage in Mooresville, NC while charging. A team of NHTSA investigators were sent to look into the cause. However, although these incidents occurred, the NHTSA doesn’t think there’s a greater risk with lithium-ion powered electric vehicles because relatively speaking, there’s an inherent danger with any automobile because of the volatility of their propellants.

“Based on the available data, NHTSA does not believe the Volt or other electric vehicles are at a greater risk of fire than gasoline-powered vehicles. In fact, all vehicles — both electric and gasoline-powered — have some risk of fire in the event of a serious crash.”

GM’s Statement to NHTSA Investigation:

The following statement can be attributed Jim Federico, General Motors chief engineer for electric vehicles:

“First and foremost, I want to make this very clear: the Volt is a safe car.  We are working cooperatively with NHTSA as it completes its investigation.  However, NHTSA has stated that based on available data, there’s no greater risk of fire with a Volt than a traditional gasoline-powered car.

“Safety protocols for electric vehicles are clearly an industry concern. At GM, we have safety protocols to depower the battery of an electric vehicle after a significant crash.

“We are working with other vehicle manufacturers, first responders, tow truck operators, and salvage associations with the goal of implementing industry-wide protocols.”

Source: Automotive News

Honda AC-X Concept

Along with the Honda Small Sports EV Concept, the Japanese automaker will show this four-door AC-X Concept. The Honda AC-X, which stands for Advanced Cruiser-X is described as “a next-generation plug-in hybrid vehicle which offers a more comfortable and enjoyable time in the vehicle during all driving situations, from urban to long-distance driving. With the choices of an ‘engine drive mode’ for more aggressive driving or an ‘automatic drive mode’ for more relaxed driving, the vehicle broadens the joy of mobility.”

The Honda AC-X is a plug-in hybrid sedan powered by a 1.6 liter gasoline engine and a 120kw electric-motor. Together the system puts out a nice 127-hp.

Honda says that the AC-X Concept has a total driving range of 620 miles with fuel-economy coming in at an amazing 260 mpg (we’re not sure which cycle Honda is basing its estimates on).

Honda AC-X Concept Interior

Honda AC-X Concept Interior

Source: egmCarTech

The BMW Vision EfficientDynamics Concept was the star of the 2009 Frankfurt Motor Show and carried wide range of completely or virtually production-ready components. After debuting with an overwhelming positive response and a huge desire to put the car in production, BMW announced today that it will produce a fully road-ready technology showcase vehicle based on the BMW Vision EfficientDynamics concept.

“By developing a sports car based on the BMW Vision EfficientDynamics concept study for serial production, the Munich-based premium automobile manufacturer underscores its position as a global leader in the production of sporty vehicles with exemplary efficiency,” BMW said in a statement.

The BMW Vision EfficientDynamics study is powered by a 1.5L 3-cylinder turbo diesel engine mated to a hybrid synchronous motor at the front axle and a full-hybrid engine at the rear axle enables an overall system output 328-hp. 0-60 mph comes in just 4.8 seconds with a top speed of 155 mph. Fuel-economy is estimated at 63 mpg and the concept can provide 31 miles of zero-emissions driving.

The production version of the Vision EfficientDynamics will go on sale in 2013 but BMW has not confirmed any production numbers or pricing.

Oh, and for those of you wondering, this is the same supercar teased throughout the Don’t Blog About This campaign.

Source: egmCarTech

While discarding rumors that he will soon leave the company, Ferrari Chairman Luca Cordero di Montezemolo let loose some details on what we can expect from the next-generation of vehicles from the Italian automaker.

“I want to shape the next product cycle at Ferrari to assure a bright future at a company that has been inextricably intertwined with my life,” Montezemolo said.

Talking about the next limited-edition supercar, Montezemolo said that the successor to the F40, F50 and Enzo, will be the cornerstone of future vehicles from the company. The model, which is due in 2012, will use the gasoline/hybrid technology shown in the Ferrari 599 GTB HY-KERS concept, which debuted at the 2010 Geneva Motor Show. That will help the model cut CO2 emissions by 35 percent along with the help of weight reducing technology previews in the 2007 Millechili concept.

“That car  will incorporate the state of the art of our knowledge in terms of increasing performances while reducing fuel consumption and emissions. It will then influence all Ferraris that appear after it,” he said.

Source: egmCarTech

The redesigned 2011 Toyota Highlander has made its official world debut at the 2010 Moscow Motor Show and we have to say… Toyota is finally getting some emotion and aggressiveness back into its styling.

The new 2011 Highlander receives a total new front end design with new headlamps, a new grille and a new front bumper. While it is a total redesign, the overall theme of the front still resembles the other Highlanders of the past. The back of the 2011 Highlander still remains very close to the current generation model but gets new tail-lights.

Those looking to purchase the 2011 Toyota Highlander in Russia and Ukraine will have the options of 3.5L gasoline V6 producing 273-hp mated to a five-speed automatic transmission . The United States should get the redesigned Highlander very soon but it may have some minor design changes. However, powertrain choices are expected to remain the same with the 187-hp 2.7 4-cylinder and the 270-hp 3.5L V6. The Hybrid Highlander will also continue on as is.

Source: egmCarTech

Ready to make its debut at the 2010 Paris Motor Show

, Honda revealed the first two images and some details on the new Honda Jazz Hybrid. The model, which will be known as the Honda Fit Hybrid in Japan, marks the first time a parallel hybrid vehicle has been available to B-segment customers.

The Honda Jazz Hybrid gets its power from the same 1.3L i-VTEC gasoline engine mated to the company’s IMA system and a CVT gearbox that is found in the Insight and the CR-Z. Like the Insight and Civic Hybrid models, the Jazz Hybrid will be able of driving on the electric motor alone under some medium and low speed conditions. No word on official fuel-economy figure but it is expected to be close to that of the Honda CR-Z.

The Jazz hybrid will go on sale in some European markets in the early part of 2011. The new hybrid will also be available in a range of existing colors plus a new Lime Green metallic. No word on if the Honda Fit will make it to the United States.

Source: egmCarTech

After all the waiting, rumors and reports, Porsche today announced that it has officially given the green light to the series development of the Porsche 918 Spyder.

“Reflecting the overwhelming response from the public and customers to the Concept Study, the Supervisory Board gave Porsche’s board of Management the mission to develop a production model based on the car already presented,” Porsche said in a statement.

“Production of the 918 Spyder in a limited series proves that we are taking the right approach with Porsche Intelligent Performance featuring the combination of supreme performance and efficient drivetrain concepts,” said Michael Macht, President and Chairman of the Board of Management of Porsche AG. “We will develop the 918 Spyder in Weissach and assemble it in Zuffenhausen. This is also a very important commitment to Germany as a manufacturing base.”

Prices of the production model are expected to start around 500,000 euros ($630,000 USD).

Refresher: Power for the Porsche 918 Spyder Concept comes from a 3.4L mid-mounted V8 making 500-hp. The engine is mated to two electric-motors sitting on the front and rear axle with an additional output of 218-hp. Power is driven to the wheels by Porsche’s 7-speed Doppelkupplungsgetriebe PDK transmission, allowing the 918 Spyder Concept to go from 0-62 mph in 3.2 seconds with a top speed of 198 mph. Drivers are allowed to choose from four different driving modes including E-Drive, Hybrid, Sport Hybrid and Race Hybrid. The E-Drive mode lets the 918 Spyder concept run on pure electricity with a range of 16 miles.

Source: EgmCarTech

The stylish Peugeot RCZ was the French automaker’s PSA’s 2007 concept car and it was finally unveiled in Frankfurt 2009.

Some things are worth waiting for. Take the Peugeot RCZ, for example. French auto giant PSA has been talking about putting the RCZ into production since initially unveiling it as a concept car in this very hall back in 2007. And that day has finally arrived with the unveiling of the production-ready coupe here in Frankfurt.

The critics may say the styling is too close to the Audi TT, but to our eyes that’s no bad thing. And while there are certainly some TT-esque design traits coming through, there is plenty to set this apart as uniquely Peugeot. Sporting a Zagato-style double-bubble roof and muscular wheel arches, the RCZ is easily the most stylish French car this side of a Bugatti.

Mechanically, it’s based on the 308 hatchback, but the svelte coupe has dropped the numeric moniker on the road to production. Engines include 1.6-liter turbo fours with 156 or 200 horsepower and a 2-liter turbo diesel with 163 ponies. Also available with the oil-burning mill is a hybrid drivetrain supplemented by a 37-horsepower electric motor that matches the top gas engine’s output while upping the ante with all-wheel-drive and environmental bragging rights. Have a closer look in the gallery below.

Source Autoblog

The more we see of Renault’s all-electric line-up that is on display at the Frankfurt Motor Show, the more we want to hang out at company cocktail parties. Something delicious and potent must be on tap there.

From the elegant and unexpected lines of the Zoe (above, note the recycle logo) to the buggy quirkiness of the Twizy, Renault is displaying some truly fun-looking electric cars here. Now if only these things were available to drive off the lot today, we’d really be getting somewhere. As we said yesterday when we got Renault’s official pics, these cars demand a second look in high-res. Have at it in the gallery below. While you do, we’ll hunt down more information on Renault’s Quickdrop battery exchange station and what role Better Place has with the technology.

Source Autoblog

We’ve already received a sneak peek at some early images of the Toyota Auris HSD concept, but Toyota was woefully tight-lipped about disclosing on any actual details at that time. No longer, as the Japanese automaker has just dropped all the pertinents and a bunch of new images of its upcoming hybrid ahead of the car’s official debut at the Frankfurt Motor Show.

As we noted, there are solar panels installed on the Auris HSD’s roof that Toyota says are a further development of the solar-powered ventilation system which debuted on the 2010 Prius. Additional solar panels on the car’s dashboard develop enough juice to recharge mobile phones and portable electronics using built-in charging trays.

As expected, the Auris HSD is powered by a 1.8-liter four cylinder engine mated to Toyota’s Hybrid Synergy Drive technology as used in the Prius. Toyota expects the run to 60 mph to take about 10 seconds and carbon emissions to be below 100 grams per kilometer. LED lights join a slew of aerodynamic tweaks that reportedly drop the car’s drag coefficient to .28 round out the exterior features unique to the concept.

Inside, blue Gaucholino leather joins a pearl white console to offer a unique showcar appearance. We’re not sure how many of these touches will make it into production (which is scheduled to begin next year at Toyota’s Burnaston factory in England with sales scheduled to start during the second half of 2010), but we’d like to see the mobile chargers make the leap. Click past the break for the official press release and be sure to check out our updated gallery below.

Source Autoblog

At the 2009 Detroit Auto Show, Mercedes-Benz showed us the BlueZERO E-Cell concept, which it said gets around 124 miles on batter-power alone. The concept was part of a three part study including the Mercedes-Benz BlueZERO F-Cell and the BlueZERO E-Cell Plus. Today, Mercedes-Benz released more details on the BlueZERO E-Cell PLUS along with a bunch of new high-res photos.

Unlike the BlueZERO E-Cell, which is purely battery-powered, the BlueZERO E-Cell PLUS gets a 3-cylinder tubrocharged petrol engine allowing for a total range of 373 miles, 62 miles of which come from pure electric-power alone. Mercedes-Benz says that the BlueZERO E-Cell PLUS requires about half an hour of charge for a 30 mile range.

Throughout the press release, Mercedes-Benz refers to the BlueZERO E-Cell and the E-Cell PLUS as a “near-series” concept. Don’t be surprised if you see at least one of these on the roads by next year in form of the next-generation A-Class or B-Class.

Source Egmcartech

After several months of speculation and official teases for the past week, we now finally have all the details on the Vision Efficient Dynamics Concept that BMW will show at the Frankfurt Motor Show in a couple of weeks. The speculation about the concept’s power train has gone in several directions, almost all of which were correct. The new concept is a plug-in hybrid with a three-cylinder turbo-diesel engine. Conceived with the idea of melding the performance of a M3 with exceptionally low fuel consumption, BMW claims a 0-62 mph time of 4.8 seconds while scoring 62.6 mpg (U.S.) on the E.U. combined test cycle.

There has been considerable speculation that future BMW’s will go to smaller engines including a three-cylinder. The concept uses a 1.5-liter turbo diesel that is essentially half of the fabulous 3.0-liter found in the 335d. The triple is rated at a hefty 163 hp with peak torque of 214 lb-ft. The engine is paired with a six-speed DCT derived from the unit used in the M3 and Z4.

Adding fuel to recent reports that BMW would not continue developing the two-mode hybrid system that will debut soon in the X6, the concept uses a new strong hybrid system. The new system is a further development of the mild hybrid that is debuting in the Active Hybrid 7. As in the 7, a more powerful 33-hp electric motor is sandwiched between the engine and transmission. A second 80-hp motor provides drive to the front axle. The total net output of the drive system is 356 hp and 590 lb-ft of torque. Continue reading more after the jump.

Making use of electric motors requires some electrical energy system. Here BMW’s new concept has an arrangement similar to the Chevrolet Volt using a lithium polymer battery pack running down the center tunnel of the car. Also similar to the Volt, the pack has a usable capacity of 8.6 kWh. However, the total capacity is just 10.8 kWh. BMW claims the pack used in the concept can use 80% of its capacity, considerably more than the 50% that the Volt uses. The upside is that the pack weighs just 187 pounds. When plugged into a standard European 220 V / 16 A outlet, the battery can be charged in just 2.5 hours.

Unlike the Volt, which is designed to give its full performance from the electric drive system, the BMW concept gets its full capability from the blended power delivery. The concept is able to run about 31 miles on electricity alone and complete the NEDC test procedure on electricity. The efficiency of the diesel engine means that the 6.6-gallon tank can propel the car another 400 miles. The electrical energy consumption of the concept is 28.16 kWh/100 miles, which compares to the claimed 25 kWh/100 miles for the Volt.

Another area where the BMW differs, particularly from the original Volt concept, is aerodynamics. The Volt is well known for having had terrible drag properties. The BMW is claimed to have a drag coefficient of 0.22, part of which was attained by moving the diesel engine to the back of the car. The mid-mounted engine sits just ahead of the rear axle, which combines with the small front electric motor for a very low front end. Similar to the Cadillac Provoq concept – which eventually became the production SRX – front air resistance is reduced by using thermostatically controlled slats ahead of the radiator inlets to redirect air when it isn’t needed for cooling. Overall, BMW says it has made use of knowledge gained from motor sports in optimizing the aerodynamics of the Vision Efficient Dynamics concept.

Beyond the power train, BMW has implemented an array of technologies to optimize the concept. A full aluminum chassis and suspension along with a roof and much of the skin made from a light-sensitive polycarbonate combine for a claimed mass of just 3,076 pounds. Other interesting design tidbits include polycarbonate glass that gets darker when light shines on it, and LED lighting all around has given the designers more freedom as well as reduced energy consumption.

Perhaps most interesting is what BMW refers to as “Forward looking energy management.” The idea here is to utilize the other systems in the vehicle to anticipate what is coming and optimize the use of the various power train elements to cut energy use overall. For example, the radar sensor for the active cruise control could be used to switch off the engine preemptively and trigger regenerative braking if traffic ahead is slowing down. We’ll be “looking forward” to learning more about this system.

PRESS RELEASE: THE BMW VISION EFFICIENT DYNAMICS CONCEPT

The latest BMW Concept Car for the Efficient Dynamics philosophy. For decades, BMW has made the reduction of emissions and fuel consumption a key part of its product development strategy, just as enhancements to the dynamic ability of each BMW have been a lasting, sustained brand value. BMW’s Efficient Dynamics engineering philosophy – the pursuit of an enhanced, athletic driving experience while simultaneously lowering the consumption and emissions of each vehicle – resulted in the most dramatic drop in fleet consumption of any automaker from 1990 through 2005, according to an Environmental Defense study.

Now, the BMW Vision concept car clearly demonstrates that the Efficient Dynamics objectives are fully compatible when applied to a sports car. Conceived as a 2+2-seater with plug-in full-hybrid technology, this unique car combines the performance of a BMW M vehicle with a standard of fuel efficiency and emission management that exceeds even the current levels achieved by the latest small cars. This outstanding result is made possible by the combination of BMW Active Hybrid components with an extremely economical combustion engine, and outstanding aerodynamic qualities. BMW Vision Efficient Dynamics is the result of a “clean-sheet” development process to ensure that the correct achievements were made in the areas of efficiency, driving pleasure, technology, and emotional design. BMW Vision Efficien tDynamics is the most comprehensive implementation of the Efficient Dynamics philosophy seen so far. The power train provides a top speed limited electronically to 155 mph, with acceleration to 100 km/h in 4.8 seconds. Average fuel consumption in the EU test cycle is 3.76 liters/100 kilometers, equal to 62.6 mpg, and the CO2 emission rating is 99 grams per kilometer. CO2 emission management is even more outstanding when driving in the all-electric mode after charging the battery from a plug-in source: Taking all emissions in the generation of electricity into account, as prescribed by the EU formula, the car’s emission rating is just 50 grams per kilometer. Through this unique balance of driving pleasure and fuel efficiency, the BMW Vision EfficientDynamics concept car clearly demonstrates the potential of BMW Active Hybrid technology, which makes its world debut at the 2009 Frankfurt Motor Show in the BMW ActiveHybrid X6 and BMW Active Hybrid 7 production models.

The power and performance are made possible by combining a fuel-efficient 3-cylinder turbo diesel with one electric motor on each axle. The intelligent combination of these units, together with precisely controlled energy management, simultaneously enhances the dynamic performance and the efficiency of the car. Overall system output is 356 horsepower, and peak torque is 590 lb-ft. The special arrangement of the two motors and diesel engine allows all-wheel drive when driving in all-electric mode. The result is minimum power loss and a harmonious transmission of the power available under all conditions. In its design, BMW Vision Efficient Dynamics for the first time conveys the dynamic look of a BMW sports car to a hybrid vehicle. Developed with decades of experience in Motor sport, the body of this unique sports car is a result of intelligent lightweight technology and aerodynamic efficiency. In the design of the interior, the focus was likewise on both the fascinating driving experience and, in particular, on transparent, hands-on technology and maximum reduction of weight. Turbo diesel engine with unprecedented specific output. The combustion engine is a cutting-edge turbo diesel featured for the first time in the BMW Vision Efficient Dynamics concept car. Displacing 1.5 liters on three cylinders, the engine consistently follows the downsizing principle of using a relatively small engine combined with a turbocharger to reduce fuel consumption.

Through its compact dimensions, the 3-cylinder fits conveniently in front of the rear axle like in an agile mid-engine sports car, despite the two seats at the rear. Fuel is injected by the latest generation of High Precision Direct Injection, and the turbocharger features variable intake geometry for maximum efficiency. Engine output is 163 hp with peak torque of 214 lb-ft.

The specific output of 109 hp per liter sets a new benchmark in diesel technology. The power delivered by the turbo diesel is conveyed to the rear axle by means of a double-clutch transmission (DCT). This advanced transmission technology, which already offers a particularly dynamic driving experience in BMW’s M3 and Z4 Roadster, allows the driver to shift gears without the slightest interruption of power. BMW Vision Efficient Dynamics features a newly-developed version of BMW’s DCT with six speeds for maximum efficiency and flexibility. Two electric motors for full-hybrid drive.

The combustion engine is supplemented by two electric motors. Consistently applying the BMW Active Hybrid philosophy, development engineers followed the principle of “Best of Hybrid,” choosing the optimum combination of a hybrid synchronous motor on the front axle and a full-hybrid system at the rear. In this concept, the driver benefits from the efficiency of the electric motors over a far wider speed range than with a conventional hybrid car. The rear axle comes with a second-generation full-hybrid system corresponding to the technology in the BMW Active Hybrid 7 production model. The compact electric motor positioned between the diesel engine and the DCT outputs a consistent 33 horsepower and is able to reach a peak of up to 51 hp. Maximum torque for the rear electric motor is 214 lb-ft, the power, either supporting the diesel engine or in all-electric motoring. When coasting or applying the brakes, the electric motor acts as a generator and feeds electric power to the lithium-polymer battery in the car. The electric energy developed in this way is therefore captured without any additional consumption of fuel through the principle of Brake Energy Regeneration. Energy wasted on the brakes of a conventional car is thus saved within the new power system for subsequent use in driving the car. A second electric motor acts on the front axle. This engine, a hybrid synchronous motor, offers continuous output of 80 horsepower and peak torque of 162 lb-ft. Extra power of 112 horsepower is available for a period of up to 30 seconds, and, for a 10-second “burst,” the electric motor is able to develop 139 horsepower. The power is transmitted through a 2-stage, single-speed reduction gearbox.

BMW Vision Efficient Dynamics is able to run completely under electric power, with the power of the turbo diesel engine alone, or through an infinite combination of the three power sources. Depending on driving conditions, the two electric motors may be used both for accelerating and for regenerating energy when applying the brakes and while coasting. This principle ensures efficient energy management, with the charge status of the lithium-polymer battery constantly remaining within the optimum range. When accelerating, the electric motors help to boost the car for even greater performance, ensuring immediate response and a significant reduction in fuel consumption. For a short time, such as in passing maneuvers, the cumulative maximum output of all three engines increases to 356 hp, with maximum torque generated by the three engines reaching 590 lb-ft.

Lithium-polymer battery for electrical energy. The energy cells featured in BMW Vision Efficient Dynamics are housed in a chassis element running from front to rear through the middle of the car. The front unit is the lithium-polymer complex, an ongoing development of the lithium-ion battery. Overall, BMW Vision Efficient Dynamics comes with a total of 98 lithium-polymer cells, each offering a capacity of 30 amp/hours and developing continuous output of 600 Amps at a voltage of 3.7 V. For a period of 30 seconds, each cell is even able to develop maximum output of 1,200 Amps.

Serial arrangement of the lithium-polymer cells serves to generate nominal voltage of 364 volts, the gross storage capacity of the battery is 10.8 kW/h. With an unusually high discharge capacity of 80 percent, the battery delivers 8.6 kW/h for driving the car. This superior performance comes on overall weight of the entire energy storage system of just 187 lb. A further advantage is that through their optimum dimensions tailored to the specific qualities and features of the car, the lithium-polymer cells, together with the operating strategy chosen with a concept of “forward looking” energy management, reduces the thermal load acting on the battery to such an extent that there is no need for active cooling. Plug-in solution: convenient charging of the electric power system from a conventional power socket.

Brake Energy Regeneration captures electric power generated while driving without additional fuel consumption, which is subsequently used to supply power to the electric motors and on-board network. A further option is to connect the lithium-polymer cells to a conventional power socket for a simple and efficient charge process, using a plug-in connector in the front-right wing of the car. Connected to a standard EU power outlet (220 V, 16 Amps), the system requires a maximum of 2 ½ hours to fully charge the lithium-polymer cells. And wherever a power source with higher voltage and amperage (380 V, 32 Amps) is available, the charge time is an even shorter 44 minutes.

In addition to electrical energy storage, BMW Vision Efficient Dynamics comes with a conventional fuel tank at the rear end of the central chassis tunnel, offering a capacity of 6.6 gallons. Running on diesel fuel alone, BMW Vision Efficient Dynamics is able to cover a distance of approximately 400 miles with its combustion engine. Benefiting from an extra range of up to 31 miles in the all-electric mode, the car offers an overall range of approximately 431 miles. As a result, this unique concept car offers all the requirements for using energy with maximum efficiency and at the same time experiencing the dynamic performance typical of BMW without any restriction of everyday driving qualities.
Performance, fuel efficiency and emission management opening new dimensions in hybrid technology.

The power delivered by the two electric motors and single diesel 3-cylinder engine gives the BMW Vision Efficient Dynamics concept a level of performance superior to anything provided so far by a hybrid vehicle. Acceleration from a standstill to 100 km/h, for example, comes in just 4.8 seconds and the car could exceed its electronically-limited 155 mph top speed. At the same time fuel efficiency and emission management now reach a standard only achieved, if at all, by far less powerful small cars conceived for city traffic and short distances. Applying the criteria of the EU test cycle, BMW Vision Efficient Dynamics offers average fuel consumption equal to 62.6 mpg. CO2 emissions, in turn, are 99 grams per kilometer. These consumption and emission figures are measured on a consistent internal power balance, meaning that the batteries and storage media for electrical energy maintain the same charge level throughout the entire test cycle (with the same level at the beginning and end) and are charged while driving only by the car’s on-board systems. As a plug-in hybrid, BMW Vision Efficient Dynamics is able to cover the entire drive cycle for measuring fuel consumption also with its combustion engine completely switched off. Then, to subsequently charge the lithium-polymer cells to the same status as when setting off, all the driver has to do is connect the car to an external power grid. To determine the consumption of electric power, the only requirement is to compare the charge level of the battery before and after the test cycle. Applying this measurement process, the BMW Vision Efficient Dynamics concept car consumes 17.5 kW/h per 100 kilometers, equal to a CO2 emission rating of just 50 grams per kilometer in the EU test cycle.

To determine the total volume of CO2 emissions when driving in the all-electric mode, new legal standards for measuring the level of fuel consumption are currently being prepared for hybrid and electric cars with a plug-in power supply. Applying this calculation method, the CO2 emission ratings generated by BMW Vision Efficient Dynamics are reduced further to just one-third of the original figure of 99 grams per kilometer. Clearly, this significant reduction of emissions opens up a new dimension in BMW’s Efficient Dynamics development strategy in this unique concept car.

Aerodynamic qualities reflecting BMW’s Motor sport experience.
BMW Vision Efficient Dynamics also takes a new approach in its design and streamlining, the body and the interior clearly expressing the unique combination of supreme efficiency and the sporting performance of the brand. Following BMW’s design language, this concept car visualizes both highly efficient aerodynamics and intelligent lightweight construction.

In its design, BMW Vision Efficient Dynamics differs from the usual low-emission car concepts. The principle of “form follows function” is not just for the overall look of the car, but embraces each and every detail. Measuring 48.8″ in height and boasting a sweeping, arch-like roof line, BMW Vision Efficient Dynamics offers the slender silhouette of a classic Gran Turismo. With the combustion engine fitted in front of the rear axle, the designers have succeeded in giving the car a very low front end, with the flow of air being further smoothened by active louvers in front of the radiator, which close completely when the need for cooling air is low. This efficient function follows in the footsteps of the active air flap control already used as a feature of BMW Efficient Dynamics in some of BMW’s current production models. As a further highlight, BMW Vision Efficient Dynamics guides air smoothly and exactly as required into the car through an active air intake at the front.
Numerous details in the design of the body are based on the know-how BMW has gained in Motor sport, a number of body elements serving as air deflectors and guide vanes. Designed as ducts, for example, the A-pillars serve to channel the flow of air in the same way as the rear lights with their wing profile. The floor of the car is fully covered from front to rear and from one side to the other, thus maintaining a smooth surface to avoid any air swirl liable to increase fuel consumption. Slender openings around the front air dam guide the air flowing specifically into two closed ducts leading inside the front air dam to the wheel arches where the air comes out again through a very slim aperture at high speed, flowing just next to the outer wheel flanks. This air jet rests on the front wheels like a curtain and is therefore referred to most appropriately as the “air curtain.” It provides a highly stabilizing effect.

Overall vehicle concept for a drag coefficient of just 0.22.

To further optimize the aerodynamic qualities of the entire vehicle and keep rolling resistance to a minimum, BMW Vision Efficient Dynamics comes with tires and wheels of quite unusual size on a sports car. The tires measure 195/55, while large 21-inch wheels provide a contact surface on the road otherwise offered only by a much wider tire. In combination with the sophisticated axle geometry, this ensures agile driving behavior.

The extra-large wheel covers extending over part of the tire flanks add to the unique, very different look of BMW Vision Efficient Dynamics from the side. The blade profile integrated in the wheels serves furthermore to reduce the negative effect of the turning wheels on the overall aerodynamics of the car. In all, these features optimizing the aerodynamic qualities of the car give the BMW Vision Efficient Dynamics concept car a very low drag factor (CX) of just 0.22.

Technological look as a strong impression of intelligent lightweight construction.

In both exterior and interior design, BMW Vision Efficient Dynamics stands out clearly as a strong spearhead in technology. Many components of the vehicle are presented in full view expressing the “transparent” character of the car as a powerful visual feature of lightweight technology. The chassis and suspension of BMW Vision Efficient Dynamics are made completely of aluminum; the roof and the outer skin on the doors are made almost completely of a special polycarbonate glass automatically darkening as a function of the light shining on the car.

Measuring 181.1″ in length, 74.8″ in width and 48.8″ in height, this unique concept car offers ample space for up to four passengers and their luggage. Thanks to the consistent lightweight construction strategy applied on the car, curb weight is 3,076 lb, with the center of gravity remaining very low. In its power-to-weight ratio, the BMW Vision Efficient Dynamics concept car is far superior to all other hybrid cars, achieving the same standard as extremely dynamic sports cars with a conventional combustion engine.

Carrying a maximum payload of 981 lb, this unique 2+2-seater is fully suited for everyday traffic. Luggage capacity of 5.3 cu ft, in turn, allows the driver and passengers to conveniently take along two golf bags. And to meet additional loading requirements the backrests of the two rear seats may be tilted down individually to provide extra storage space.

Emotional design through sculptural shapes and layering technology. Reflecting the innovative drive concept of this unique car, the design of BMW Vision Efficient Dynamics likewise takes a new approach in combining functional progress with a most powerful emotional impact. This has been achieved through the close cooperation of BMW’s Design and Technical Development Divisions starting at an early point and continuing consistently throughout the entire development process. The result is a brand-new vehicle architecture with the drive components as well as the body and interior elements perfectly coordinated and matched to one another with maximum flexibility and individual style. A fully integrated design philosophy also provided new options in using harmonized design principles connecting the exterior and the interior and providing an interacting effect between the two areas. Sculptural design language giving BMW Vision Efficient Dynamics a fully harmonized, complete look ensures the proportions typical of a BMW sports car. The front, side, rear and roof areas, for example, flow smoothly into one another. Dynamically contoured surfaces and shapes, in turn, create highly attractive light and shade effects accentuating the light and sporting character of the car in an emotional manner. Layering technology developed by the BMW Group Design Division acts as the fundamental guideline in designing the exterior and interior. Applied for the first time in exterior design, this technology layers one surface on top of the other, creating very smooth seams and joints to reduce the number of components and, accordingly, the weight of the car. As a result, BMW Vision Efficient Dynamics meets the most demanding aerodynamic requirements without using any additional body elements, simply through the structure of the surfaces optimized for a smooth flow of air.

Interior: innovative lightweight construction and unprecedented orientation to the driver. In the design of the interior, innovative layering technology provides an unprecedented symbiosis of function and stylish shapes intentionally reduced to a minimum, consistently implementing and visualizing the lightweight principle also inside the car. Specific components such as the central air vent not only serving to enhance motoring comfort but also acting as part of the cockpit, perform several functions in one. This multi-functionality is then presented visibly within the car, the use of particularly sophisticated materials providing a highly attractive combination of innovation in technology and quality clear to the eye and the touch of the surface.

This interaction of lightweight construction and individual well-being also comes out clearly in the design of the controls and switches, with a leather band, for example, running round the aluminum gear selector lever on the center console. Materials combining lightweight technology and all the qualities required are also to be admired all round the cockpit of BMW Vision Efficient Dynamics, giving the car an unusually generous feeling of space for a 2+2-seater. The body-contoured seats, for example, are made up of a kevlar shell, a backbone structure, and seat padding with personalized fillings. Clearly, this combination alone ensures comfort at a minimum weight. The driver’s and front passenger’s seats are connected firmly to the center console to form a joint interior “landscape”, while the rear seats anchored on the floor would appear to be hovering in space. Natural materials and light colors on the seat upholstery and all interior linings underline the light, sophisticated and sustainability-oriented atmosphere within the passenger compartment.

The instrument panel is deliberately padded only where technical components have to be appropriately covered, thus making an important contribution to passenger safety in the event of a collision. The instrument cluster played a fundamental role right from the start in the design process, serving as the starting point for all surfaces within the interior and thus creating a particularly powerful rendition of that driver orientation typical of BMW.

Innovative light technology: providing clear signals to the outside and offering soothing ambient illumination inside in a unique symbiosis.

LED lights at both the front and rear end of BMW Vision Efficient Dynamics provide an innovative combination of the symbols typical of the brand and clear design language oriented towards trendsetting technology. The distinctive look of the dual round headlights characteristic of a BMW is emphasized in particular by the use of LED technology. The rear lights are integrated also in their function into the design of the entire rear section, forming part of the rear air deflector and thus merging completely into the rear contour.

Extremely flat and compact, the rear lights are made up of innovative LED units forming a smooth and consistent red surface when not in use. Only when used do the respective light chambers take on the appropriate color such as yellow on the direction indicators. This innovative light technology also provides an intense symbiosis of the exterior and interior, again promoting and further refining the driving experience.

This is also why the ambient illumination of the interior comes with new features and qualities, the light sources within the passenger compartment being fed from the positioning lights at the side, the rear lights and the brake lights, thus changing the atmosphere created by the lights within the car as a function of driving conditions.

The optical impression conveyed by BMW Vision Efficient Dynamics also results in other areas from the symbiosis of the exterior and interior, eliminating the conventional barriers between the two. The lines within the interior, for example, continue on to the innovative design of the engine compartment lid, while in its shape the third brake light positioned higher up on the car follows the structure of the glass roof and tapers to the outside where the roof line moves down gently to the rear.

Overhead doors for convenient access to all seats.

The doors on BMW Vision Efficient Dynamics open up like bird’s wings, turning on pivots in the front roof column at the level of the side direction indicators. Since the car has no B-pillars, the large door cutouts ensure convenient entry also to the rear seats. The pivots on the doors also provide the base for the exterior mirrors, thus forming an ideal combination of function and aesthetic design. The structure of the doors is also characterized by several layers of materials on top of one another and the optical and functional symbiosis of the interior and exterior this technology is able to offer. Made up of three layers, the overall structure comprises the outer glass surface, an interim load-bearing layer, and the interior cover with its particularly smooth shapes and fl owing forms clearly visible to the passengers, layering technology again, therefore, opening up new perspectives.

The large glass surfaces extending far down on the body also provide a strong optical impression of the low seating position close to the road. And at the same time a stable sidebar ensures the body stiffness and crash safety naturally required on every vehicle. Flowing to the inside at its central point, this safety element also serves as an armrest. This interplay of the three layers also helping to minimize the weight of the car continues on the trim bar running along the door and extending out of the armrest, finally flowing into the outer door opener on its path from inside to outside.

Clear focus on the essential: 3-dimensional Head-Up Display.

Layering technology is also used on the displays in the instrument cluster and in the Head-Up Display developed to an even higher standard on BMW’s new concept car. The Display now creates a powerful impression of three dimensions, at the same time providing the option to present various signals more in the front or more in the background, depending on their relevance and current driving conditions.

The Head-Up Display projects information important to the driver on to the windscreen. Indeed, innovative presentation technology even allows the superimposed presentation of several views in three dimensions, keeping, the gauge graphics visible in the background while the latest information on route guidance or warning signals from BMW Night Vision, for example, are shown in the foreground.

The sequence in which such signals appear depends on the driving mode chosen by the driver, the display technology, again depending on the driver’s personal preference, enhancing a particularly sporting, a more comfort oriented, or an efficiency-based style of motoring. Through its design alone, the BMW Vision Efficient Dynamics concept car clearly shows that highly efficient individual mobility may by all means be presented in emotional style. BMW already offers models in all vehicle segments which, compared with the competition, ensure the lowest level of fuel consumption and emissions combined with superior power and performance. And now BMW Vision Efficient Dynamics confirms BMW’s commitment to offer a perfect combination in future of unique driving pleasure and optimum qualities in the responsible use of natural resources.

In the design process the need for sustainable management is borne out most clearly by the GINA (Geometry and Functions in N-fold Augmentation) concept developed by the BMW Group. In this case maximum creative freedom sets the foundation for innovative solutions challenging the conventional and meeting the requirements of the future. This makes the GINA principle particularly well-suited for developing visions for the future reflecting both the wish for emotional style and individual character as well as the quest for sustainable management and efficiency. From the dimensions of its wheels through the design of the rear lights and all the way to the configuration of the cockpit, BMW Vision Efficient Dynamics therefore boasts a number of details both outside and inside which, going far beyond conventional solutions, open up a new approach to maximum efficiency and that Dynamic ability typical of BMW.

Forward-looking energy management adjusting to individual requirements.

With the individual system components on board BMW Vision Efficient Dynamics being networked with one another, conditions are perfect for implementing a forward-looking system of energy management using information gathered by the sensors of the driver assistance units fitted in the car. Data provided, for example, by the rain sensor or Active Cruise Control with its Stop & amp; Go function as well as by the navigation system, and subsequently evaluated by the central control unit, offers an overview of current and upcoming driving conditions. Then, evaluating such data, the on-board computer is able to forecast driving conditions on the stretch of road immediately ahead, such calculations serving to prepare the car for upcoming requirements and make efficient use of the energy available through optimum operation of all systems.

Should the high-performance central computer establish, for example, that the driver is about to take the motorway, the power used for running the cooling system is reduced for a certain period in advance, on the assumption that the short increase in coolant temperature resulting from such an energy-saving measure will quickly be set off by the higher speed of the car on the motorway. Another example of such pre-conditioning is the regeneration of energy from the air conditioning, from Electronic Power Steering and the Brake Assistant

Source Autoblog

The last time we heard anything about the Acura NSX – it pretty much made us very depressed. Rumor has it that the car will now become a “Super Hybrid Sports” model that would be powered by a 450-hp 3.5L V6 engine mated to a hybrid system. Every dream of seeing a 600-hp 5.5L V10 NSX to compete with the Nissan GT-R and the upcoming Lexus LF-A has shattered into a million pieces.

In that sense, when Honda announced last year that is shelving the NSX for good – they weren’t kidding.

According Acura’s senior manager of product development John Watts, the next NSX will be scaled down. The original NSX was “too high a halo,” Watts told CARandDRIVER. “For it to be fully effective, it couldn’t be too far removed” from Acura’s other products.

So expect the “next NSX” to have a fairly affordable price-tag and to share a platform from a current product in Acura’s lineup.

Source Egmcartech

Velozzi, a Los Angeles, California based company, has unveiled their new SOLO crossover – a lightweight plug-in hybrid electric crossover with an on-board multi-fuel micro turbine battery charger. Confused? Yeah – so were we. Let’s try to make sense of it together.

Velozzi says that most of the plug-in hybrid electric-vehicles being built today are using the same type of construction as in the past – in terms of performance. “It is inconceivable and counter productive to manufacture efficient vehicles using antiquated types of construction,” says CEO Roberto Velozzi.

On the other hand, the SOLO brings Formula 1 technology to build a crossover that performs like a high-end exotic sedan. The SOLO is the first production car in the world to use a multi-fuel micro turbine battery charger to re-charge its lithium-ion batteries. While the SOLO is a true electric-car in nature, it can be recharged by either plugging it into an electric-grid or by its multi-fuel micro turbine battery charger. Some of the fuels that can be used with the Velozzi SOLO are gasoline, diesel, ethanol, methanol, butanol and biodiesel. Regenerative braking also helps improve the range.

Velozzi says that the driving experience will be similar to gasoline-powered vehicles. The SOLO can return a 100 mpg and go from 0 to 60 mpg in the 6 seconds with a top speed of 130 MPH.

Velozzi says that it setting up mass production of its cars by late 2011 – early 2012. It is also pursing government funding and investments to build its vehicles.

Source Egmcartech

FoMoCo is all about going global and going small – the same applies for its luxury brand Lincoln. With the Navigator selling poorly, Lincoln is now considering vehicles as small as the Ford Focus and a compact crossover due out in 2011. The two would be the smallest Lincoln models in the brands current lineup and unless a coupe based on the Ford Mustang materializes, Lincoln will walk away from the rear-wheel-drive segment when the Town Car dies in 2011.

Source Egmcartech

As of right now, most of Lincoln’s development team is focused on a compact car based on the next-generation global Ford Focus platform. While product chief Derrick Kuzak says that Lincoln has room in its lineup for a front-wheel-drive compact car, such a car is far from being green-lighted by executives, reports Automotive News.

Lincoln unveiled the Concept C at the 2009 Detroit Motor Show with a 1.6L EcoBoost 4-cylinder engine under the hood. It was the first time we’ve seen anything official from Ford regarding a 4-cylinder EcoBoost engine.

Toyota’s new president admits the automaker needs an excitement-infusion, and to that end – and in order to match the upcoming Honda CR-Z tit-for-tat – Toyota is rumored to be working on a two-door version of the Prius.

The latest reports out of Japan indicate that a shortened, 2+2 Prius-based hybrid sports coupe is under development, packing an uprated version of the 1.8-liter 2ZR-FXE four-cylinder putting out around 134 hp – 36 hp more than in its sedan counterpart. Naturally, Toyota’s Hybrid Synergy Drive system will carry over and the additional power boost will have an adverse impact on fuel mileage – albeit a minor one.

If the Prius coupe does come to fruition, expect it to be around 100 mm shorter than the sedan, carry over the standard Prius’ interior and debut sometime in mid-2012. Conveniently, there’s no word on a name and whether or not the coupe will be sold in the States, but we wouldn’t be surprised to find out that this would be a JDM-only affair.

Source Autoblog

Fisker Automotive announced today that its Karma plug-in hybrid sedan will make its public driving debut at the Rolex Monterey Historic Automobile Races on Saturday, August 15. The Karma Sunset hardtop convertible concept will also be on display along side the Karma sedan but will not show off any moves.

“The Rolex Monterey Historic Automobile Races is the best stage in the world for great moments in automotive history,” said Henrik Fisker, Fisker Automotive CEO. “Fisker is honored to be a part of it.”

Fisker plans to start delivering the first Karmas in the fourth-quarter of this year. Prices start at $80,400 for the coupe. Fisker Karma S Sunset prices will be announced at a later date. Buyers interesting in purchasing the Karma S will have to make a deposit of $25,000.

Source Egmcartech

Electricity is held by many in the industry to be the true way of the future, but so far only a tiny handful of companies have made serious attempts at a highway-capable production electric vehicle and aside from the electric Smart, Daimler and Mercedes-Benz haven’t been among them. But now the brand’s AMG division is skipping straight over the mundane family tourer, today officially announcing development of an all-electric supercar built on the 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG platform.

As hinted at last week, the car will bear the same name as its V8-engined counterpart, the standard SLS AMG, but instead of pumping 571hp out of a single engine<, the electric drive SLS AMG will generate a total of 525hp from its four corner-mounted motors. Torque of the electric model tops out at a heady 650lb-ft.

By using four motors, the SLS AMG’s all wheel drive system can modulate power to each individual wheel far more precisely and efficiently than any torque vectoring solution. Two transmissions – one for each axle – help to distribute power. Mercedes intentionally skipped mounting the motors in the wheels to reduce unsprung weight.

“With the SLS AMG with electric drive, we wanted to redefine the super car. For us, it is not just about responsibility. We attach just as much importance to excitement and classic AMG performance,” said Volker Mornhinweg, Chief Executive Officer of Mercedes-AMG GmbH.

Performance of the car will be very close to the combustion-engine version, with 0-62mph slipping by in just 4.0 seconds – 0.2 seconds off the V8 pace.

Of course, the electric SLS AMG will have a good deal of weight to deal with in the form of its 400V, 48kWh total battery pack, which will be located where the transmission tunnel is in the V8 model, while the engine bay will also be used for some of the electronics. Despite the addition of all the new drivetrain equipment, the Gullwing’s body required no structural modifications, and due to the modularity of the electric drive system, it can all be positioned very low in the chassis to improve the center of gravity.

Unfortunately, no clear time frame for the car’s development and release was announced, so we’ll likely have to wait several years before it hits the streets. Also undisclosed is the electric SLS AMG’s range on a single charge.

Source Motorauthority