Autoblog

BMW plan to provide 4,000 cars to Olympic dignitaries in London triggers controversy

Jonathon Ramsey — Wed, 04 Jan 2012 16:33:00 EST

Filed under: Sedan, Etc., BMW, UK, Luxury

The problem when a bunch of bigwigs want to do something good for the environment is that they won't stop being bigwigs in order to do it. Getting a lot of VIPs together means a lot of private jets and limousines, and next thing you know, you've got a situation like the 2009 climate change conference in Copenhagen, when it only took a few days for 15,000 delegates to create as much filth as the town of Middlesbrough's 142,500 inhabitants.

According to the UK's Daily Mail, the 2012 London Olympics may be headed down the same carbon trail, with sponsor BMW planning to ship 4,000 cars to The City for use by dignitaries. Games organizers had promised that this would be the cleanest Olympics ever, and London mayor Boris Johnson said in 2009 that he wanted London to be the cleanest city in the world by the time the games arrived. Even though 200 of the BMWs are electric and all fall below the 120g/km emissions limit, the promise could still be difficult to fulfill with 3,800 more limos on top of the extra rides already called into service, especially once you factor in shipping them from Germany.

Some perspective, though: the addition of four thousand BMWs is being compared to London's aim for clean games; the extra metal really isn't that many cars considering we're talking about an event of this size. Only 250 vehicles will be allotted exclusively, the rest will be in shared service, and many will simply be displacing cars that otherwise would have been called into regular service. And, on the bright side: their use of BMWs will leave more room on buses and trains for the rest of you...

BMW plan to provide 4,000 cars to Olympic dignitaries in London triggers controversy originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 04 Jan 2012 16:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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BMW Vision EfficientDynamics spotted on the set of Mission: Impossible 4

Aaron Richardson — Sat, 23 Apr 2011 18:35:00 EST

Filed under: Concept Cars, Coupe, Hybrid, Performance, Europe, BMW, India, Diesel

2011 BMW Vision EfficientDynamics - Click above for high-res image gallery

Mission: Impossible 4 was filming in Mumbai, India with a rolling example of the BMW Vision EfficientDynamics/i8 concept on hand and ready for its closeup. The VED was accompanied by a 2011 BMW 6 Series during a scene in which the cars negotiate Mumbai's traffic-clogged streets.

Though there's still little indication of when the proposed 328-horsepower, three-cylinder diesel hybrid sports car will show up, this version looks mighty similar to the one caught lapping in Abu Dhabi last year. BMW's plans for the car are still generally under wraps, but it's likely the production version will break cover wearing the i8 badge. Thanks for the tip, Zohaib!

Gallery: 2011 BMW Vision EfficientDynamics Concept

[Source: TeamBHP Images: TeamBHP]

BMW Vision EfficientDynamics spotted on the set of Mission: Impossible 4 originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 23 Apr 2011 18:35:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Spy Shots: BMW i8 spotted winter testing

Zach Bowman — Tue, 08 Mar 2011 10:57:00 EST

Filed under: Spy Photos, Coupe, Hybrid, Performance, Technology, BMW, Diesel, Luxury

BMW i8 Spy Shots - Click above for high-res image gallery

BMW doesn't seem to be too engaged in trying to hide what the company's new i8 supercar will look like when it arrives - in fact, it's been so kind as to leave the label on one of its prototypes. Our keen-eyed spy photographers managed to snap a few quick photos of the vehicle dashing through the snow in northern Sweden during a little cold-weather testing. The machine you see above will be the reigning monarch of the Bavarian automaker's new sub-brand, i, once it debuts.

Based on the Vision EfficientDynamics concept that starred at the 2009 Frankfurt Motor Show, the vehicle is said to pack 2+2 seating, a 0-62 mph time in the 4.8 second range and fuel economy of over 62 mpg U.S., along with a supercar price tag. Look to fork over around $200,000 when this beastie touches down.

There's been some indication that BMW will forgo the thrifty diesel engine of the concept in favor of a turbocharged four-cylinder gasoline mill to work in coordination with a hybrid system. While that's bad news bears for diesel fans, the fact that BMW is gearing the platform toward gasoline means that this vehicle will more than likely show up on American shores.

Gallery: BMW i8 Spy Shots

[Source: CarPix]

Spy Shots: BMW i8 spotted winter testing originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 08 Mar 2011 10:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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BMW Vision ConnectedDrive set to make Geneva swoon

Domenick Yoney — Thu, 10 Feb 2011 11:03:00 EST

Filed under: Concept Cars, Convertible, Geneva Motor Show, Europe, BMW, Design/Style, Electric

BMW Vision ConnectedDrive concept - Click above for high-res image gallery

BMW is coming to the Geneva Motor Show tech-loaded for bear and the Vision ConnectedDrive concept is the sleek, roadster-shaped weapon. The topless study is based on the production-bound BMW EfficientDynamics and serves as a platform to showcase the Bavarian automaker's advanced driver assistance and mobility networking systems, demonstrating what is possible both now and in the future.

The drivetrain beneath the concept is purely electric. No specifications have been revealed yet, though it really only needs enough get-up-and-go to get up on the stage and get gone after what's sure to be its enthusiastic presentation. The sexy package is just meant to grab your attention long enough for BMW to subliminally inform you how it will swath you in a safe and entertaining environment through technology that's just a mind-meld short of miraculous. Check out our high-res gallery below and the press release after the jump detailing the VCD concept and BMW's other Geneva activities.

Gallery: BMW Vision ConnectedDrive

[Source: BMW]

Continue reading BMW Vision ConnectedDrive set to make Geneva swoon

BMW Vision ConnectedDrive set to make Geneva swoon originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 10 Feb 2011 11:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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BMW Vision EfficientDynamics spotted in Abu Dhabi - is it closer to production? [w/video]

Steven J. Ewing — Fri, 31 Dec 2010 17:57:00 EST

Filed under: Spy Photos, Coupe, Hybrid, Performance, BMW, Middle East, Diesel

BMW EfficientDynamics supercar in Abu Dhabi - click above to watch video after the jump

During a recent trip to Abu Dhabi, Teamspeed forum member Captain Stradale caught a glimpse of the BMW Vision EfficientDynamics strutting its stuff for an on-track photo shoot. What makes us most curious, though, is the fact that this gray version of the VED is marginally different-looking than the white concept BMW has paraded around the auto show circuit over the past year (along with the white with blue swirly camo prototype they've shown).

The Vision EfficientDynamics, which is rumored to come into production under the name 'i8', is expected to be powered by a 328-horsepower three-cylinder diesel-hybrid powertrain. The ultra-lightweight production car is tipped to run from 0-100 in just 4.8 seconds, and during normal driving, the new efficient supercar is estimated to achieve 62.5 miles per gallon.

When we'll see the production version of the VED is still unclear, though sources have reported that it will show up in 2013, priced from around $200,000. We can't verify if the gray car in these Teamspeed shots is anything closer to production, but seeing this thing out on the track makes us all the more eager to experience BMW's efficient hotness for ourselves. In the meantime, check out the spy video after the jump and click on the link below to see more photos at Teamspeed. Thanks to everyone for the tips!

[Source: Teamspeed]

Continue reading BMW Vision EfficientDynamics spotted in Abu Dhabi - is it closer to production? [w/video]

BMW Vision EfficientDynamics spotted in Abu Dhabi - is it closer to production? [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 31 Dec 2010 17:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Rumormill: BMW's production Vision Concept to be called i8

Sebastian Blanco — Wed, 29 Dec 2010 17:55:00 EST

Filed under: Coupe, Hybrid, BMW, Rumormill, Electric, Diesel

BMW Vision EfficientDynamics Concept - Click above for high-res image gallery

We have heard that BMW has has registered a series of "i+number trademarks (i1, i2, i3, i4, i5, i6, i7, i8 and i9) to use for its fuel efficient MegaCity range of vehicles. BMWBlog is now saying that it has heard a rumor that the combination that will be applied to the upcoming (read: 2013 or 2014) version of the Vision EfficientDynamics Concept will be i8. This makes some sense, as a BMW i8 would conjure up images of the never-seen M8 supercar, but BMWBlog is unconvinced. After all, why bring back memories of gas-guzzling supercars when you're trying to reinvent what one can be? Plus, since the vehicle is so far away, there's probably no name set in stone yet anyway.

Whatever BMW decides on, it'll be better than the name that the car was given when we first saw it at the Frankfurt Motor Show in September 2009. Vision EfficientDynamics is just way, way too long.

Gallery: Frankfurt 2009: BMW Vision EfficientDynamics

[Source: BMWBlog via Green Car Reports]

Rumormill: BMW's production Vision Concept to be called i8 originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 29 Dec 2010 17:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Officially Official: BMW confirms Efficient Dynamics production [w/video]

Autoblog Staff — Fri, 05 Nov 2010 11:06:00 EST

Filed under: Concept Cars, Coupe, BMW, Electric

BMW Vision Efficient Dynamics prototype - Click above for high-res image gallery

Sure, BMW is going to build a small, urban electric car - the Megacity - in a few years, but we're pretty sure there are a lot of Bimmer drivers who won't much care for that little thing, no matter what the powertrain. For them, BMW has announced a second treat today: the Vision Efficient Dynamics (VED) concept will indeed make the jump to production form.

We first saw the VED a little over a year ago at the Frankfurt Motor Show in 2009 and BMW says the concept was met with an "overwhelming response." Little surprise, then, that BMW was interested in building this for the people - well, people who can afford the $200,000, give or take, the car will likely cost when it come to market in a few years. Since the VED contained a fair bit of "completely or virtually production-ready components," BMW is confidently giving out media test drives at the Leipzig trade fair center of a road-ready technology showcase vehicle based on the VED.

Final production numbers won't be known for a while, but the prototype features wing doors and a 2+2 seating arrangement. Underhood, a three-cylinder turbo diesel engine "with a hybrid synchronous motor at the front axle and a full-hybrid engine at the rear axle" put out a total of 241 kW/328 bhp and hits 0-100 kilometers per hour (62 miles per hour) in just 4.8 seconds. The sleek car can do this while burning just 3.76 litters of fuel per 100 kilometers (a Toyota Prius-beating 62.5 miles per gallon U.S.) and emitting 99 grams of CO2 per kilometer. The production VED will also be a plug-in, with the ability to go 50 km (31 miles) on lithium-polymer battery power. Hit the jump for the full details in BMW's press release, as well as a video of the Efficient Dynamics prototype.

Gallery: BMW Vision EfficientDynamics Prototype

[Source: BMW]

Continue reading Officially Official: BMW confirms Efficient Dynamics production [w/video]

Officially Official: BMW confirms Efficient Dynamics production [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 05 Nov 2010 11:06:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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BMW's dontblogaboutthis.com car revealed on forum

Jeff Glucker — Wed, 08 Sep 2010 14:27:00 EST

Filed under: Concept Cars, Spy Photos, Coupe, Etc., Marketing/Advertising, Paris Motor Show, BMW, Rumormill, Specialty

dontblogaboutthis BMW - Click above for high-res image gallery

Yesterday we brought you a few strange images and even weirder videos showcasing an odd BMW. Today, more images have hit the web, proving this is more than a BMW 6 Series with skinny tires and a missing tailpipe. The car may be wearing 6 Series skin from the a-pillar back, but the front is a different animal. It appears to be similar to the face found on the BMW Vision EfficientDynamics concept vehicle.

There are a lot of ways these "spy shots" can be perceived. The above image and the extremely quiet running sound from the clips certainly led us to believe this car is utilizing a new EfficientDynamics powertrain. This would mean the above mash-up mobile is powered by a 1.5-liter inline three-cylinder diesel as well as a pair of electric motors set on the axles.

A viral campaign complete with dark photographs of a mysterious vehicle? It must be auto show season! The Paris Motor Show is right around the corner and we hope someone BMW will be ready to spill their precision-engineered beans.

Gallery: DontBlogAboutThis.com BMW

[Source: dontblogaboutthis, e90post forums]

BMW's dontblogaboutthis.com car revealed on forum originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 08 Sep 2010 14:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Rumormill: Production BMW Efficient Dynamics sports car in 2013, M version too!

Sam Abuelsamid — Tue, 03 Aug 2010 14:31:00 EST

Filed under: Concept Cars, Coupe, Hybrid, Performance, BMW, Diesel

2009 BMW Vision EfficientDynamics Concept - Click above for high-res image gallery

A production sports car based on last year's BMW Vision EfficientDynamics concept will reportedly debut at the 2011 Frankfurt Motor Show and come to market by 2013. According to Germany's AutoBild, the car which they refer to as the I100 (as part of BMW's project I which is also spawning the MegaCity EV) will be powered by a hybrid powertrain much like the one in the concept.

A 1.5-liter three-cylinder engine (possibly a diesel) paired with an electric motor based on the architecture of BMW's mild hybrid 7 Series would drive the rear wheels, while a second motor would drive the front wheels. A lithium ion battery pack is earmarked to provide electrical energy storage, although it's not clear if the plug-in capability of the concept would be retained.

According to Autobild, it's also possible that we'll see an M variant of this car using the 450 horsepower twin-turbo inline-six from the next generation M3 along with set of supercapacitors instead of a lithium battery pack.

Gallery: BMW Vision EfficientDynamics Concept

[Source: AutoBild]

Rumormill: Production BMW Efficient Dynamics sports car in 2013, M version too! originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 03 Aug 2010 14:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Rumormill: BMW developing M8 hybrid sports car

Steven J. Ewing — Mon, 28 Jun 2010 14:01:00 EST

Filed under: Coupe, Hybrid, Performance, BMW, Rumormill

BMW Vision EfficientDynamics concept - Click above for high-res image gallery

This isn't the first time we've heard rumblings about the possibility of BMW producing a hybrid sports car based on its Vision EfficientDynamics concept. Now, though, the German magazine Autozeitung report that the new sports car could potentially be named M8, and more importantly, that the plug-in hybrid motor from the concept will be ditched in favor of something sweeter.

Instead of a wholly electric motor, these new rumors suggest that the production M8 will use a version of the E60 M5's 5.0-liter V10, but with two electric motors added on for good measure. These two electric mills will be mounted at the front and rear, similar to the layout seen in the Vision EfficientDynamics concept, and should produce around 150 horsepower, combined. Add the V10 to those whirring motors and we expect total output to be somewhere between 600-700 hp. If this is the future of hybrid sports cars, we're okay with it.

The magazine also reports that the M8 will be about five inches longer than the original Vision concept, and that a two-plus-two seating configuration will be offered inside. If the project remains on track, expect to see BMW's hybrid supercar debut at some point in 2012.

Gallery: BMW Vision EfficientDynamics Concept

[Source: Autozeitung via TeamSpeed, BMWblog]

Rumormill: BMW developing M8 hybrid sports car originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 28 Jun 2010 14:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Spy Shots: Clearest look yet at BMW's next 6 Series

Jonny Lieberman — Tue, 06 Apr 2010 15:31:00 EST

Filed under: Spy Photos, Coupe, Europe, BMW, Luxury

The next BMW 6 Series-click above for high-res image gallery

We've been seeing spy shots of the upcoming 6-Series Convertible for some time now (also, here), but this is the first time we've seen the hard topped version out in the streets. Well, halfway out in the street, as BMW has it all wrapped up for up for a psytrance after-party. We will tip our hats to BMW for this black and white disguise, however, as there's a slight resemblance to the Maserati 4200 GT in front, while they taped off the C-pillar ape the Z32 300ZX. That said, they're not fooling anyone.

First of all, the stuff they didn't/can't cover with camo-wheels, brakes and mirrors-all scream BMW. Especially the "Efficient Dynamics" brake kit that will charge the battery while you're slowing down. Also, the trunk is still fairly Bangled, though less so than the current car.

The engines will be coming out of the 7 Series, though probably not the vaunted 760Li's twin-turbo V12. Expect the double-scroll single turbo 3.0-liter straight six and the twin-turbo 4.4-liter V8, as well as few diesel mill we won't be seeing in the States. As far as the next M6 goes, that's up in the air. Early reports indicate that BMW will be selling some manner of R8-fighter based on the Efficient Dynamics Concept, though it will probably be stuffed with a 600+ horsepower version of the BMW 262 cubic inch twin-turbo V8.

Before you get salty tears in your coffee, our spies also inform us that a four door version of the new 6 Series is expected. Something along the lines of a 650i Gran Turismo, including a hatch/trunk lid similar to the one found in the 550i GT. A model needed (apparently) to combat the upcoming Audi A7 four-door coupe. Those wacky Germans...

Gallery: Spy Shots: 2011 BMW 6 Series

Spy Shots: Clearest look yet at BMW's next 6 Series originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 06 Apr 2010 15:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Video: BMW gets cute, takes dig at Audi in the classroom

Chris Shunk — Mon, 01 Mar 2010 16:30:00 EST

Filed under: Videos, Audi, BMW

Click above to watch the video after the jump

Good, we were hoping BMW would answer the latest challenge from Audi in the online battle of boast. Audi started up again the dormant war of words between these two German automakers a couple weeks ago by patting itself on the back for winning three Car and Driver comparisons in a row, and now BMW is striking back by bragging about its mixture of efficiency and vehicle dynamics sans compromises.

Hit the jump to watch the 1:25 video for yourself. Unfortunately, Team Motor Werks didn't get to throwing down with Audi until the very end of the spot, which takes place in an elementary school classroom. And even when the guys and gals at BMW took their swing, we're afraid it just grazes the four-ringed chin of its luxury car rival. Let us know which automaker you think scored the more direct blow by chiming in on the post-jump comments.

[Source: YouTube]

Continue reading Video: BMW gets cute, takes dig at Audi in the classroom

Video: BMW gets cute, takes dig at Audi in the classroom originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 01 Mar 2010 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Video: BMW "Joy is Futureproof" commercial showcases Efficient Dynamics engineering

Steven J. Ewing — Tue, 16 Feb 2010 19:01:00 EST

Filed under: Marketing/Advertising, Videos, BMW

BMW's "Joy is Futureproof" commercial - Click above to watch the video after the jump

BMW has done a lot of work over the past year to bring its core philosophy of Efficient Dynamics to nearly every vehicle in its lineup. We've seen new hybrid production vehicles like the ActiveHybrid X6 and 7, as well as diesel-powered offerings like the 335d and X5 xDrive35d.

But for BMW, Efficient Dynamics doesn't just represent alternative fuels. The automaker has implemented technologies like regenerative braking on gas-powered models, as well as a larger focus on using lightweight materials to construct the vehicles in its lineup.

BMW's latest ad spot shows how these forward-thinking improvements influence its full range of products, and ties it all into the original Vision EfficientDynamics concept car from last year's Frankfurt Motor Show. (We really like seeing that thing in action.) Hit the jump to watch the video.

Gallery: BMW Vision EfficientDynamics Concept

[Source: YouTube]

Continue reading Video: BMW "Joy is Futureproof" commercial showcases Efficient Dynamics engineering

Video: BMW "Joy is Futureproof" commercial showcases Efficient Dynamics engineering originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 16 Feb 2010 19:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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BMW announces start-stop system and Competition package for M3, M Sport for X5

Damon Lavrinc — Fri, 12 Feb 2010 15:01:00 EST

Filed under: Convertible, Coupe, Sedan, Performance, SUV, Geneva Motor Show, Europe, Crossover, BMW

BMW M3 Competition Package - Click above for high-res image gallery

BMW is hell-bent on incorporating its EfficientDynamics systems into every model in its line-up, and the latest recipient is the M3, which will come equipped with Auto Start Stop this spring. According to BMW, the system, which cuts the engine when the M3 comes to a stop, reduces emissions and fuel consumption by up to eight percent.

BMW will also begin offering a Competition Package for the M3 coupe and sedan in Europe, which includes 19x9-inch wheels, a suspension lowered by 10mm and a revised Sport traction control setting. A carbon fiber rear spoiler and front apron flaps are included in the package, and can be ordered separately for older M3s.

A new M Sport package for the X5 will debut alongside the Competition M3 at the Geneva Motor Show, comprised of a 19- or 20-inch wheels wrapped in specially developed tires, a new front fascia with larger air intakes, "satinized aluminum" window surrounds, M leather steering wheel, footrest and a few interior tweaks. All the details, along with new Individual packages for the X5 M, X6 M, 5 and 7 Series sedans, are available in the press release below the fold.

Gallery: BMW M3 Competition Package

Continue reading BMW announces start-stop system and Competition package for M3, M Sport for X5

BMW announces start-stop system and Competition package for M3, M Sport for X5 originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 12 Feb 2010 15:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Report: 2013 BMW Vision EfficientDynamics supercar moving toward production

Jeremy Korzeniewski — Fri, 29 Jan 2010 16:57:00 EST

Filed under: Coupe, Hybrid, Performance, BMW, Rumormill, Electric, Diesel

BMW Vision Efficient Dynamics Concept - Click above for high-res image gallery

According to an unnamed "senior BMW authority out of Munich" speaking with InsideLine, the German automaker will indeed build a production version of the Vision EfficientDynamics concept that debuted last year at the Frankfurt Motor Show. BMW is reportedly planning for a model run of between 5,000 and 10,000 units in 2013. We'll get to the details in a moment, but here's the best news: "That name that the marketing people forced on us [is] going to change for sure." Phew.

Apparently, BMW has no plans to ditch the radical plug-in hybrid powertrain, which put out 356 horsepower and a stonkin' 590 pound-feet of torque in the concept. That means we'll get something similar to the turbocharged three-cylinder diesel range extender and twin electric motors powered by a lithium polymer battery pack that was featured in Frankfurt. Sounds great so far, and BMW claims the performance will be even better than the 4.8-second 0 to 60 run quoted for the concept.

Naturally, some of the Vision's more outlandish exterior bits will go the way of the Dodo, but IL reports BMW's target of weight is still under 3,000 pounds, meaning that high-tech composites and construction techniques are a veritable lock. Price for this next-gen eco-friendly supercar? Nothing announced - but if you have to ask... well, you know the rest.

Gallery: BMW Vision EfficientDynamics Concept

[Source: Inside Line]

Report: 2013 BMW Vision EfficientDynamics supercar moving toward production originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 29 Jan 2010 16:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Spy Shots: BMW Vision EfficientDynamics concept snagged at Munich photo shoot

Noah Joseph — Wed, 02 Sep 2009 11:37:00 EST

Filed under: Concept Cars, Frankfurt Motor Show, Spy Photos, Hybrid, Performance, Europe, BMW

Excited by BMW's new Vision EfficientDynamics concept car? So are we. But while the rest of us have to wait another couple of weeks to see the future-think show car at the Bavarian automaker's show stand in Frankfurt, one lucky enthusiast got an early glimpse while visiting the company's flagship BMW Welt in Munich.

Looks like he got quite an eyeful too, as Car and Driver has a comprehensive gallery of the car shot from every angle while BMW was apparently doing some photography and video work itself. Follow the link to check it out.

[Source: Car and Driver]

Spy Shots: BMW Vision EfficientDynamics concept snagged at Munich photo shoot originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 02 Sep 2009 11:37:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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REPORT: BMW debuting sustainable sports car concept in Frankfurt

Jonny Lieberman — Wed, 29 Jul 2009 13:01:00 EST

Filed under: Concept Cars, Frankfurt Motor Show, Coupe, Europe, Technology, BMW

BMW M1 Hommage - Click above for high-res image gallery

Busy, busy. BMW starts the day by leaving F1. And it looks like for lunch they're bringing a green sports car to the Frankfurt Auto Show. Maybe. According to Autotelegraf.nl, the new sustainable sports car concept will be inspired by the BMW M1 Hommage concept and will feature all the latest and greatest BMW EfficientDynamics (auto stop/start, regenerative brakes, electric powersteering, etc). But the hits don't stop there -- look for the concept to be built from sustainable materials, too. Big question: will this car be just a concept, or will a sustainable sports car actually make its way to dealers? Dunno. But the Dutch word is that BMW is studying the viability of said project and is planning on a limited release two-door showcasing their best environmental kung fu by 2012. Again, we just don't know, and we're not quite willing to hold our breath yet.

Gallery: BMW M1 Hommage

[Source: Autotelegraf.nl via Motor Authority]

REPORT: BMW debuting sustainable sports car concept in Frankfurt originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 29 Jul 2009 13:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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BMW to debut production hybrid 7 in Frankfurt?

Noah Joseph — Thu, 30 Apr 2009 10:29:00 EST

Filed under: Frankfurt Motor Show, Hybrid, Sedan, Green, BMW

BMW 7-Series ActiveHybrid - Click above for a high-res image gallery

With BMW investing heavily in its Efficient Dynamics program, the next stage could be unveiled at its home-turf Frankfurt show this coming September. Reports out of France suggest that this is where the Bavarian automaker will unveil its 750Hi, a hybrid version of its latest 7-Series flagship sedan.

Previewed by the 7-Series ActiveHybrid concept in Paris last fall, Munich's assault on the recently revealed S400 Hybrid from arch-rival Mercedes-Benz and the Lexus LS600h is expected to pair an electric motor with its highly-rated 4.4-liter twin-turbo V8, providing over 400 horsepower in the unassisted, gas-burning version. While there is no word on how big the electric motor will be, but if Mercedes' solution is anything to go by, look for something in the neighborhood of 20 horsepower, while the new eight-speed automatic that debuted on the new 760i in Shanghai could see duty in the production hybrid due to potential packaging benefits. If the reports emerge as genuine, we should have more for you over the course of the summer as more details emerge.

[Source: L'Automobile ]

BMW to debut production hybrid 7 in Frankfurt? originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 30 Apr 2009 10:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Rendered Speculation: BMW Z10 ED to tackle Audi R8

Jonathon Ramsey — Fri, 13 Mar 2009 18:58:00 EST

Filed under: Concept Cars, Coupe, Performance, Green, Supercars, BMW

The BMW Z10 ED -- Efficient Dynamics -- is a green supercar that's out to get the Audi R8. Tech specs are hypothesized to be a high-pressure turbocharged inline six cylinder with 400 hp that would use either a mechanical valve system or BMW's VANOS system, and run through a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission. Along with electronic stop/start aids, there would be technology to turn exhaust gasses into electricity. With the use of plenty of carbon fiber and aluminum, the car is meant to weigh no more than 3,080 pounds.

Even though it hasn't stopped Ferrari and Lamborghini, lead BMW designer Adrian Van Hooydonk thinks it might be hard to sell the Z10 with a supercar body in a global recession. Most importantly, though, he wants the car to be a symbol of the future, and to offer an "exciting dynamic experience." We can't imagine the sketch is anything go by, unless he also wants the car to try and eat you.

[Source: Autocar]

Rendered Speculation: BMW Z10 ED to tackle Audi R8 originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 13 Mar 2009 18:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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BMW working on regenerative exhaust system... with NASA?

Noah Joseph — Tue, 10 Mar 2009 09:32:00 EST

Filed under: Green, Technology, BMW

Baby steps. That's how BMW expects to improve the efficiency of its vehicles - not by revolutionizing the automobile or replacing the internal-combustion engine, but by improving it. The Bavarian automaker's Efficient Dynamics program includes a roster of fuel-saving technologies like regenerative braking and start-stop engine management, but the second generation of the initiative looks to the heavens for inspiration. Specifically, to the National Aeronautics and Space Administration.

NASA's satellites are powered by thermo-electric generators (TEDs) which derive electricity from the heat generated by radioactive materials. BMW has no intention of putting plutonium in your car, but is working with NASA to adapt the TEDs to hook up to the car's exhaust system and provide some 200 watts of what would otherwise be (and until now has been) wasted energy. Capturing the heat to power auxiliary systems like climate control, BMW says the system could improve fuel economy by 5%. Not a revolutionary figure, but more than the contribution of both regenerative braking and start-stop combined.

[Source: CAR]

BMW working on regenerative exhaust system... with NASA? originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 10 Mar 2009 09:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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