Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2013 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[BMW confirms X4 for next year, i3 preorders starting to add up]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/20/bmw-confirms-x4-for-next-year-i3-preorders-starting-to-add-up/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/20/bmw-confirms-x4-for-next-year-i3-preorders-starting-to-add-up/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/20/bmw-confirms-x4-for-next-year-i3-preorders-starting-to-add-up/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

BMW i3 Spy Shots

BMW has confirmed the long-anticipated X4 will bow next year. Norbert Reithofer, chairman of the automaker's board of management, made mention of the upcoming CUV during remarks at the company's annual accounts press conference. Reithofer said that BMW has sold more than 2.7 million X models since it began producing the machines, and that the company plans to expand those offerings with the new X4 next year. He declined to offer up any more details, though from what we've heard so far, the model will be more of a crossover than either the X3 or the X5.

Reithofer also made it clear that BMW is getting serious about electric vehicles, saying the i3 (pictured above, in prototype form) is "definitely coming to market" and that the runabout will be ready by late 2013. BMW reports it has had "Several hundred advance orders" for the EV. As you may recall, the i3 uses a special carbon fiber reinforced plastic passenger cell to save weight and boasts a standard range of 93 miles. You can read the full transcripts from the press conference below for more information.

Continue reading BMW confirms X4 for next year, i3 preorders starting to add up

BMW confirms X4 for next year, i3 preorders starting to add up originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 20 Mar 2013 18:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bmwbmw i3bmw x4i3Norbert Reithoferx4Wed, 20 Mar 2013 18:31:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20511266/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/03/20/bmw-confirms-x4-for-next-year-i3-preorders-starting-to-add-up/20511266/article-detail.xml 20511266 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/bmw-i3-2-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/bmw-i3-2-628.jpg <![CDATA[BMW to launch loaner program to avoid range anxiety on i models]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/12/bmw-to-launch-loaner-program-to-avoid-range-anxiety-on-i-models/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/12/bmw-to-launch-loaner-program-to-avoid-range-anxiety-on-i-models/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/12/bmw-to-launch-loaner-program-to-avoid-range-anxiety-on-i-models/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

BMW i3 Coupe in motion - profile view

BMW is looking to stave off electric vehicle range anxiety with a new program that offers buyers a free gasoline loaner with every i3 purchase. Ward's Auto reports BMW is confident that the EV will give buyers the kind of transportation they need for 90 percent of their trips. The loaners, meanwhile, will be available for those few occasions when drivers need to cover more ground than the machine's batteries will allow. The i3 gets around with help from a 180-horsepower electric motor paired with a lithium-ion battery pack.

The combo is good for trips of between 80 and 100 miles depending on driving habits and weather conditions, though BMW also plans to offer a model with a small two-cylinder range-extending gasoline engine as well. That option will likely set you back an additional $4,000. When the machine bows in 2014, it will likely come with a charge time of four to six hours when suckling from a 220-volt outlet.

As far as the conventionally powered loaner car goes, the cost of the program is included in the i3's purchase price, though BMW has yet to figure out how many free loans will be offered, or what happens after that threshold is reached.

BMW to launch loaner program to avoid range anxiety on i models originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 12 Mar 2013 10:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bmwbmw evbmw ibmw i3bmw loanerelectric vehicleevi3i3 loanerloanerphevrange anxietyrange extenderTue, 12 Mar 2013 10:15:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20498562/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/03/12/bmw-to-launch-loaner-program-to-avoid-range-anxiety-on-i-models/20498562/article-detail.xml 20498562 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/bmw-i3-coupe-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/bmw-i3-coupe-628.jpg <![CDATA[BMW i3 continues to shed camo as it whirs silently toward production]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/20/bmw-i3-continues-to-shed-camo-as-it-whirs-silently-toward-produc/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/20/bmw-i3-continues-to-shed-camo-as-it-whirs-silently-toward-produc/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/20/bmw-i3-continues-to-shed-camo-as-it-whirs-silently-toward-produc/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



While BMW was parading around its high-concept i3 Coupe at the LA Auto Show this year, the engineers and test drivers have been hard at work honing the real deal on the mean streets of, well, someplace European.

This is the same basic tester that we've seen in previous sets of spied images, though showing a bit more skin than in past outings. BMW has removed some of the obfuscating fake body panels from the i3, giving us a clearer view of the small car's taught and rather complex surfacing. Further, we've got a much better idea of what the production car's "face" will look like now, as the headlights have been somewhat less completely taped over, showing us the swept shape of the lenses.

The vehicle seen here is reportedly the range-extended Hybrid, rather than the pure EV. This car supposedly has a 600cc two-cylinder engine to sooth driver's minds on long trips, and improve on the electric car's presumed 100-mile range.

BMW i3 continues to shed camo as it whirs silently toward production originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 20 Dec 2012 19:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bmwevhybridi3spy shotsThu, 20 Dec 2012 19:15:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20408640/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/12/20/bmw-i3-continues-to-shed-camo-as-it-whirs-silently-toward-produc/20408640/article-detail.xml 20408640 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/12/bmw-i3-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/12/bmw-i3-628.jpg <![CDATA[BMW i3 video wants to help you make more sense of the Coupe Concept]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/14/bmw-i3-video-wants-to-help-you-make-more-sense-of-the-coupe-conc/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/14/bmw-i3-video-wants-to-help-you-make-more-sense-of-the-coupe-conc/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/14/bmw-i3-video-wants-to-help-you-make-more-sense-of-the-coupe-conc/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



For those still trying to figure out what the BMW i3 Coupe Concept is about, the Munich brand has provided an explanation in moving pictures, as well as a much better look at the interior. The result of 40 years of tinkering with electric cars, the production version of the i3 Coupe Concept will be the public's first taste of BMW's i brand and a prelude to the i8.

Word is that it will go on sale next year and, if it sticks close to the concept, should offer something like 170 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque being pushed to the rear wheels. That should get the high-sided hatch from zero to 60 kilometers - not miles - per hour in four seconds. For the rest of the skinny, have a watch of the video below.

Continue reading BMW i3 video wants to help you make more sense of the Coupe Concept

BMW i3 video wants to help you make more sense of the Coupe Concept originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 14 Dec 2012 19:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bmwi3i3 coupe conceptvideovideosyoutubeFri, 14 Dec 2012 19:27:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20403493/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/12/14/bmw-i3-video-wants-to-help-you-make-more-sense-of-the-coupe-conc/20403493/article-detail.xml 20403493 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/12/bmwi3vid_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/12/bmwi3vid.jpg <![CDATA[BMW, Boeing weave agreement on carbon fiber recycling research]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/13/bmw-boeing-weave-agreement-on-carbon-fiber-recycling-research/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/13/bmw-boeing-weave-agreement-on-carbon-fiber-recycling-research/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/13/bmw-boeing-weave-agreement-on-carbon-fiber-recycling-research/#commentsFiled under: , ,



BMW has been at the forefront of volume automakers looking to invest in carbon fiber technology. The latest development in the German automaker's efforts is in the form of a joint venture with aircraft giant Boeing. According to a joint press release, the two companies will collaborate on further development of the lightweight material, including production methods and carbon fiber recycling.

The partnership is a fitting one, as Boeing and BMW have both been pushing carbon fiber development in their respective industries. BMW has invested in carbon fiber producer SGL Group, and created the i3 and i8 concepts with heavy use of the material. Meanwhile, Boeing has developed the 787 Dreamliner (seen above), which is 50 percent carbon fiber.

The recycling of these materials, including recycling excess byproduct as well as the product at the end of its use, is essential. According to the press release below, the two companies will together look for ways to reclaim the material at the end of its product life.

Seattle, WA is the corporate home for Boeing, and is a little over 2.5 hours from BMW's Moses Lake facility. Washington State Governor Christine Gregoire helped BMW secure the location for that facility, and and played a roll in putting together this joint venture. "This exciting partnership between two global players was an industry win for our state," said Gregoire, "this will help Washington further develop our capabilities and leadership position in the game-changing technology of carbon fiber."

This development will hopefully yield less expensive production methods, and the proliferation of carbon fiber material in both the aeronautical and automotive industries. Check out more on this development in the press release below.

Continue reading BMW, Boeing weave agreement on carbon fiber recycling research

BMW, Boeing weave agreement on carbon fiber recycling research originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 13 Dec 2012 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>787bmwboeingcarbon fibercarbon fiber recyclingi3i8sgl groupThu, 13 Dec 2012 16:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20401299/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/12/13/bmw-boeing-weave-agreement-on-carbon-fiber-recycling-research/20401299/article-detail.xml 20401299 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/12/boeing-787-dreamliner-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/12/boeing-787-dreamliner-628.jpg <![CDATA[BMW i3 Coupe Concept is the newest in LifeDrive "stream flow" design]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/28/bmw-i3-coupe-concept-la-2012/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/28/bmw-i3-coupe-concept-la-2012/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/28/bmw-i3-coupe-concept-la-2012/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

BMW i3 Coupe Concept

This is the BMW i3 Coupe Concept, a sharpened take on all of the acronymous innovations wrought by four-door BMW i3 Concept: "stream flow" design wrapping its LifeDrive architecture and Life Module cabin. Presenting an evolved future beyond the already-futuristic four-door i3 Concept, the i3 Coupe Concept is a case of meticulous design and technological detail, hitting notes like anthracite-coloured kenaf fiber for the door support panels, three modes of sustainable driving and more advanced ways to calculate its route and range.

Its range is 100 miles, and for the BMW purists, the i3 Coupe Concept pushes its 170 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque to the rear wheels. It awaits your scrutiny in the high-res gallery above.

Continue reading BMW i3 Coupe Concept is the newest in LifeDrive "stream flow" design

BMW i3 Coupe Concept is the newest in LifeDrive "stream flow" design originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 28 Nov 2012 18:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 la auto showbmwbmw i3 coupe concepti3i3 coupe conceptlala auto showWed, 28 Nov 2012 18:40:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20389910/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/11/28/bmw-i3-coupe-concept-la-2012/20389910/article-detail.xml 20389910 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/11/bmw-i3-coupe-concept-la_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/11/bmw-i3-coupe-concept-la.jpg <![CDATA[i3 Coupe Concept continues to evolve BMW's electric aspirations]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/27/i3-coupe-concept-continues-to-evolve-bmws-electric-aspirations/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/27/i3-coupe-concept-continues-to-evolve-bmws-electric-aspirations/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/27/i3-coupe-concept-continues-to-evolve-bmws-electric-aspirations/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,



BMW has unveiled the i3 Coupe Concept ahead of the 2012 LA Auto Show. Like the automaker's other i efforts, the i3 Coupe boasts a carbon fiber body, and an electric motor with a maximum output of 170 horsepower helps shuttle the two-door down the road. Believe it or not, the i3 Coupe Concept puts its 184 pound-feet of torque to the rear wheels via a single-speed transmission. Engineers bolted an array of lithium-ion batteries under the floor to keep the vehicle's center of gravity as low as possible, and the carbon fiber reinforced plastic chassis gives the i3 Coupe Concept plenty of rigidity.

Technically, the new electric concept rides on the same wheelbase as the standard i3, but boast a wider, lower look. BMW says aesthetic tweaks like the raked windshield and gently sloping rear deck are set to become hallmarks of the i3 family.

Inside, the i3 Coupe Concept comes packed with a slew of sustainable materials, including leather, wood and wool, and thanks to the vehicle's packaging, the passenger cabin features an uninterrupted space between the driver and passenger footwell. Likewise, with no transmission tunnel, the cabin appears more open and airy. Check out the full press release below for more information.

Continue reading i3 Coupe Concept continues to evolve BMW's electric aspirations

i3 Coupe Concept continues to evolve BMW's electric aspirations originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 27 Nov 2012 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 la auto showbmwbmw i3 coupe concepti3i3 coupe conceptlala auto showTue, 27 Nov 2012 09:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20389254/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/11/27/i3-coupe-concept-continues-to-evolve-bmws-electric-aspirations/20389254/article-detail.xml 20389254 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/11/bmw-i3-coupe-concept-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/11/bmw-i3-coupe-concept-628.jpg <![CDATA[BMW bringing i4 concept to LA Auto Show]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/05/bmw-bringing-i4-concept-to-la-auto-show/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/05/bmw-bringing-i4-concept-to-la-auto-show/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/05/bmw-bringing-i4-concept-to-la-auto-show/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

BMW i3 Concept

Word has it BMW may be planning to bring a new electric vehicle concept to the Los Angeles Auto Show. A report in the French magazine l'Automobile suggests the German manufacturer will show up with a sportier version of the i3. BMW has made big waves about shifting its naming structure to brand coupes, convertibles and sports cars with even-number designations, leaving odd digits for base models and hatchbacks. That means the concept could theoretically wear an i4 badge if and when it rolls across the stage. The report suggests the i4 will offer buyers a lower, more attractive roofline and come with a steeper price tag if it makes production.

Both the i3 and the i4 will presumably make use of the same carbon-reinforced plastic chassis, and odds are the sportier variant will benefit from the same 170-horsepower electric motor found in the five-door. Expect more details as we get closer to the Los Angeles Auto Show later this month.

BMW bringing i4 concept to LA Auto Show originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 05 Nov 2012 11:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bmwbmw i3 conceptbmw i4 conceptconcepti3i3 concepti4i4 conceptla auto showlos angeles auto showMon, 05 Nov 2012 11:33:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20370486/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/11/05/bmw-bringing-i4-concept-to-la-auto-show/20370486/article-detail.xml 20370486 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/11/bmw-i3-concept-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/11/bmw-i3-concept-628.jpg <![CDATA[BMW taps Local Motors crowd-sourcing community to design the city car of 2025]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/09/20/bmw-taps-local-motors-crowd-sourcing-community-to-design-the-cit/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/09/20/bmw-taps-local-motors-crowd-sourcing-community-to-design-the-cit/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/09/20/bmw-taps-local-motors-crowd-sourcing-community-to-design-the-cit/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



Design-by-commitee. It is a term that we usually reserve for cars that are conceived by number-crunching product planners, rather than true designers, but this case might be different. What if that committee was every enthusiast on the planet? "Crowd-sourcing," or "open-sourcing" is a concept employed by upstart automaker Local Motors. The first spawn of this process was the insanely cool Rally Fighter, so you can't argue with the results, right?

BMW agrees, and has announced that it is teaming up with Local Motors to put on the BMW "Urban Driving Experience Challenge." It is a competition, conducted by Local Motors through its extensive crowd-sourcing community, to develop a city car for the year 2025. According to Local Motors, the competition gives its community "the opportunity to identify and design the premium vehicle features and functions that will enhance the urban driving experience of the future."

Phase One of the competition begins September 25 and runs to October 16. The second phase starts in mid-November. A total of $30,000 in prize money will be awarded in the competition, and the top winners will each travel to Munich, Germany to meet BMW's director of research and development.

There's a good bit of synergy between these two automakers. Following the Rally Fighter, Local Motors voiced its interest in crowd-sourcing a city car, which is a shared interest with BMW, given the automaker's i3 concept. Also, before the 6.2-liter GM V8 ended up under the hood of the Rally Fighter, the original powerplant was a BMW diesel 3.0-liter straight-six.

Scroll below to check out the promo video and press release.

Continue reading BMW taps Local Motors crowd-sourcing community to design the city car of 2025

BMW taps Local Motors crowd-sourcing community to design the city car of 2025 originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 20 Sep 2012 08:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Here's a twist in BMW's foray into the EV market that we hadn't anticipated: Online sales. Bloomberg is reporting that when BMW launches its i3 electric and i8 plug-in hybrid next year, the German carmaker will be selling the cars direct to customers via the Internet.

BMW is showing off its electric brand at a new London showroom, part of its Olympic sponsorship, but when the cars go on sale in Europe the ordering process will be part of the car configurator, according to the report. A BMW rep told the news service that details for how this ordering process would work with its existing dealer network have not yet been worked out.

The motivation for online sales is simple: Cheaper costs for the automaker. Online car prices could be five to seven percent less than those sold from a dealer, according to the report.

Here in the U.S., it is highly unlikely that such a model will be implemented. Both Ford and General Motors explored creating direct, online sales channels in the U.S. a decade ago, but those experiments went nowhere, due to state franchise laws and universal opposition to the idea among dealers.

BMW to sell cars online? originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 26 Jul 2012 11:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bmwdirect salesi3i8internet car salesonline car salesonline salesThu, 26 Jul 2012 11:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20286734/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/07/26/bmw-to-sell-cars-online/20286734/article-detail.xml 20286734 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/07/14-bmw-i3_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/07/14-bmw-i3.jpg <![CDATA[BMW i8 Spyder pops the top on future mobility]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/31/bmw-i8-spyder-pops-the-top-on-future-mobility/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/31/bmw-i8-spyder-pops-the-top-on-future-mobility/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/31/bmw-i8-spyder-pops-the-top-on-future-mobility/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,



BMW i, the sub-brand within BMW with its eye towards the future of mobility, has unveiled its third concept, the i8 Spyder. Based on the i8 coupe that debuted last year alongside the i3 city car, the i8 Spyder is at once an obvious followup, but also appears to be a couple of steps closer to the production models that will eventually go on sale to the public.

Like the coupe, the i8 Spyder is a plug-in through-the-road hybrid with a 96 kW (131 horsepower) electric motor up front powering the front axle and a mid-mounted turbocharged three-cylinder gas engine (presumably with a displacement of 1.5 liters like the coupe) producing 223 hp that powers the rear. A pack of lithium-ion batteries are located in a center tunnel between the two power sources, which together can produce a total system output of 354 hp and 405 lb-ft of torque. On electricity alone, the i8 Spyder can travel about 19 miles before the gas engine turns on to recharge the batteries. BMW says the system is good for 94 miles per gallon on the Imperial cycle, which converts to upwards of 78 miles per gallon on our own EPA cycle.



The beauty of the i8 Spyder's drivetrain is the car can be front-wheel-drive, rear-wheel-drive or all-wheel-drive depending on whether efficiency, performance or all-weather traction is called for. Like the coupe, the i8 Spyder also features a perfect 50:50 weight distribution, and BMW claims to have completely cancelled out the extra weight of the hybrid drivetrain through extensive use of lightweight materials like carbon fiber and aluminum. Performance is also impressive, with 0-62 mph happening in five seconds and a top speed governed at 155 mph.

Not everything between the coupe and spyder is the same, though. The i8 Spyder has a slightly shorter wheelbase and overall length. Its upward-swiveling, windowless doors are also different. The car's developers have also whimsically included a pair of electric scooters underneath a glass panel in the rear. Aside from a few more exterior tweaks to accommodate the open air design, which can be closed again with a two-section folding roof, the rest of the i8 Spyder is identical to the coupe, including the interior that features a slightly warmer choice of colors.

Scroll down for the official specs and info from BMW, and stay tuned while we hunt down the i8 Spyder for some in-person impressions. Though BMW makes no mention of its appearance at next week's New York Auto Show, the timing of this debut suggests it will be there.

Continue reading BMW i8 Spyder pops the top on future mobility

BMW i8 Spyder pops the top on future mobility originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 31 Mar 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bmwbmw iii3i8i8 spydernew yorknew york 2012new york auto showSat, 31 Mar 2012 18:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20205777/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/03/31/bmw-i8-spyder-pops-the-top-on-future-mobility/20205777/article-detail.xml 20205777 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/bmw-i8-spyder-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/bmw-i8-spyder-opt.jpg <![CDATA[BMW i3 caught winter testing again]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/01/bmw-i3-caught-winter-testing-again/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/01/bmw-i3-caught-winter-testing-again/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/01/bmw-i3-caught-winter-testing-again/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,



Spy photographers have picked up yet another batch of photos of the BMW i3. This time, the pint-sized Bimmer was spotted during some winter testing in Norway. When we last saw the awkward-looking hatchback, it was whirring about under the power of 600cc two-cylinder range-extending engine back in November. This looks to be the same i3 REx, complete with its "Hybrid Test Vehicle" stickers slathered on both doors. That means the model you see here likely boasts a range of significantly longer than the 100 miles quoted for the pure EV. How much longer? That's a question BMW isn't likely to answer until the production model debuts.

From what we've heard, the BMW i3 is slated hit the market in 2013 with the i3 REx surfacing sometime shortly thereafter. We'll be interested to see whether the production model rides on the same super-skinny tires as the test ride pictured above. Click through our attached image gallery for a host of snowy i3 photos.

BMW i3 caught winter testing again originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 01 Feb 2012 15:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bmwbmw i3bmw i3 RExbmw i3 spy shotsi3i3 spy shotsnorwaryspy photosspy shotswinter testingWed, 01 Feb 2012 15:32:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20162026/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/01/bmw-i3-caught-winter-testing-again/20162026/article-detail.xml 20162026 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/01-bmw-i3-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/01-bmw-i3-628.jpg <![CDATA[BMW i3 REx spotted packing range-extending engine]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/21/bmw-i3-rex-spotted-packing-range-extender/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/21/bmw-i3-rex-spotted-packing-range-extender/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/21/bmw-i3-rex-spotted-packing-range-extender/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

2013 BMW i3

It's been a while since we've seen prototypes of the BMW i3 making the rounds around Germany, but today we get a glimpse of the entry-level EV with new body work and possibly fitted with a range-extending engine.

When the i3 was revealed earlier this year, BMW engineers divulged to Autoblog that the automaker plans to fit a 600cc, two-cylinder engine pull from its motorcycle line to the REx model. That variant is slated to hit the market soon after the standard electrically-powered i3 goes on sale in 2013. The system - similar to the Chevrolet Volt's, but without feeding any power directly to the wheels - would extend the 100-mile range and be mounted alongside the 125kW electric motor (the same fitted to the Active E and i8) in the rear. But why do we think this is the REx model? Stickers on the doors and hatch state "Hybrid Test Vehicle."

Stylistically, the profile of the i3 has carried over from the concept, including the compact rear window between the B- and C-pillars and the suicide rear doors. Interestingly, BMW appears to have nixed the rear door's handles, so in order to enter the back seats, you'll have to open the front doors first, ala the Mini Countryman. The front and rear light assemblies appear to be closer to production spec, as does the hood and hatch. And with development well underway, we should see the production version early next year.

BMW i3 REx spotted packing range-extending engine originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 21 Nov 2011 14:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 bmw i32014 bmw i3bmwbmw i3i3Mon, 21 Nov 2011 14:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20111489/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/11/21/bmw-i3-rex-spotted-packing-range-extender/20111489/article-detail.xml 20111489 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/11/03-bmw-i3-nov-cp-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/11/03-bmw-i3-nov-cp-628.jpg <![CDATA[2014 BMW i3 to feature range-extending 652-cc motorcycle engine?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/10/13/2014-bmw-i3-to-feature-range-extending-652-cc-motorcycle-engine/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/10/13/2014-bmw-i3-to-feature-range-extending-652-cc-motorcycle-engine/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/10/13/2014-bmw-i3-to-feature-range-extending-652-cc-motorcycle-engine/#commentsFiled under: , ,

BMW i3

BMW officially unveiled its i3 concept ahead of the car's on-stage debut at the 2011 Frankfurt Motor Show. Details on the i3 and upcoming i8 poured out. Click here for all of that initial info.

Recently, Consumer Reports' Eric Evarts spoke about the i3 with BMW chief engineer Ulli Kranz. Evarts asked of the i3's optional range-extending engine and, even though Kranz wouldn't discuss specifics, Evarts seems to have prodded Kranz in such a way that BMW's range-extending solution was revealed.

Evarts suggested to Kranz that one of BMW's motorcycle engines would be ideally suited for range-extending duties and, rather than deny this, Kranz' "eyes lit up when it was suggested that a motorcycle engine might be a perfect fit for such a car," according to Evarts.

Furthermore, Green Car Reports speculates that handling the i3's range-extending duties will be one of BMW's motorcycle engines, perhaps the company's twin-cylinder 600-cc unit. Specific details are, unsurprisingly, not available, but that's what future posts are for.

2014 BMW i3 to feature range-extending 652-cc motorcycle engine? originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 13 Oct 2011 14:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bmwelectric vehiclei3plug-in hybridrange extended electric vehiclerange extenderThu, 13 Oct 2011 14:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20080752/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/10/13/2014-bmw-i3-to-feature-range-extending-652-cc-motorcycle-engine/20080752/article-detail.xml 20080752 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/07/06-bmw-i3-i8-630op_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/07/06-bmw-i3-i8-630op.jpg <![CDATA[BMW i4 and i5 on the way?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/08/22/bmw-i4-and-i5-on-the-way/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/08/22/bmw-i4-and-i5-on-the-way/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/08/22/bmw-i4-and-i5-on-the-way/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

2012 BMW i3 and i8

With the BMW i3 and i8 guaranteed for production (well, nearly guaranteed), rumors are starting to swirl that BMW will add two more models to its high-efficiency i brand. Likely dubbed the i4 and i5, they will expand on the i3 and i8 platforms, respectively.

The i4 will likely be a sporty, two-door play on the i3 platform, wearing the same carbon fiber and plastic skin as the smaller hatchback. You can expect a wider track for the i4, and likely more power from the electric motors. The optional two-cylinder range-extending engine offered in the i3 will probably make the i4 checklist, too.

The i5 will be a sport sedan akin to the Audi A5 Sportback, and will play off the i8's platform. That means a 1.5-liter turbocharged three-cylinder mill helping electric motors do their thing. Don't expect the i8's 349 horsepower, but the i5 should move along just fine.

BMW i4 and i5 on the way? originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 22 Aug 2011 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 bmw i32012 bmw i8bmwi3i4i5i8Mon, 22 Aug 2011 10:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20022987/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/08/22/bmw-i4-and-i5-on-the-way/20022987/article-detail.xml 20022987 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/08/043-bmw-i3-i8-press-630op-1313947810_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/08/043-bmw-i3-i8-press-630op-1313947810.jpg <![CDATA[BMW i3 snapped rolling through downtown Chicago]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/08/15/bmw-i3-snapped-rolling-through-downtown-chicago/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/08/15/bmw-i3-snapped-rolling-through-downtown-chicago/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/08/15/bmw-i3-snapped-rolling-through-downtown-chicago/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

BMW i3

The upcoming 2013 BMW i3, the Bavarians' all-new rear-wheel-drive EV hatchback, was out in Chicago recently, evidently for a promotional video. The car was fully undisguised, rolling silently down Chicago's Wacker Drive.

The i3 will be the first model of the new BMW i brand when it arrives in 2012, and will be powered by a 170-horsepower, all-electric motor mounted over the rear axle. Juice comes from a liquid-cooled lithium-ion battery pack, also mounted beneath the floor.

The drive set up gives the car a flat floor, meaning there's more than enough room in the small package for passengers and cargo. There are bench seats front and rear, which each accommodate four people. There's also room for just over seven cubic feet of cargo. Click past the jump to see the i3 in motion.

Continue reading BMW i3 snapped rolling through downtown Chicago

BMW i3 snapped rolling through downtown Chicago originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 15 Aug 2011 08:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 bmw i3bmwconcepti3spy photosspy picsspy shotsspy videovideoMon, 15 Aug 2011 08:59:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20017362/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/08/15/bmw-i3-snapped-rolling-through-downtown-chicago/20017362/article-detail.xml 20017362 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/08/bmw-i3-lead_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/08/bmw-i3-lead.jpg <![CDATA[Uncovering more details on BMW's i3 and i8 [w/videos]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/29/uncovering-more-details-on-bmws-i3-and-i8-w-videos/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/29/uncovering-more-details-on-bmws-i3-and-i8-w-videos/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/29/uncovering-more-details-on-bmws-i3-and-i8-w-videos/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

BMW i8 Concept

BMW i3 conceptWe've just wrapped up a series of workshops in Germany about all things BMW i, but before we drop our "Behind i" feature on you next week, we wanted to give you a few tasty morsels to chew on while you're pursuing our massive gallery of the all-new i3 and i8 concepts.

If you haven't read our breakdown on both models, check it out now, as it includes the basic specs, powertrain, suspension, chassis and a cursory look at all the techy tidbits behind the i3 and i8. But here's the latest...

The i3 will tip the scales at 2,755 pounds, while the i8 will come in under 3,300 pounds. While that might sound slightly chunky, consider that the average gasoline-powered car converted to EV duty normally tacks on around 500 pounds courtesy of the battery, motor and cooling system. When looked at in this way, both models could be considered rather svelte.

The carbon fiber "Life" structure that envelops the i3's passengers is so strong (yet very light) that BMW's engineers didn't have to include a B-pillar for structural rigidity. That means ingress and egress should be easy, aided by the fact that both models utilize ultra-thin carbon fiber and plastic bits for the interior elements. Click past the jump for a whole mess of videos featuring the new i3 and i8 concepts in more detail.

According to Adrian van Hooydonk, Senior Vice President of BMW Design, those oh-so-low side windows probably won't make it to production, but the design team is intent on bringing as much light into the cabin as possible - particularly on the i8. However, the i3's glass roof will make way for a full carbon fiber piece when production begins next year.

In our previous story, we mentioned that the i3 could be outfitted with an optional range extending engine, and after much poking and prodding, we got an answer on what it is and how it'll work. The engine will be rear-mounted, right against the electric motor (not compromising luggage space), and it will be a two-cylinder gasoline mill with a displacement of around 600cc. Cooling will be provided by the liquid system keeping the battery pack in check, and the i3 will be a true range-extender - no engine torque will reach the wheels mechanically (unlike the Chevrolet Volt). How much of an extension? Double, or around 186 miles.

And as for the i8, this will be the first mid-engine BMW in nearly 30 years, likely to be fitted with a dual-clutch gearbox and some kind of torque vectoring system to put out a combined 402 pound-feet of torque to all four wheels when the turbo'd 1.5-liter three-cylinder and electric motor are working in unison.

Check out a whole slew of videos from BMW after the break.

Continue reading Uncovering more details on BMW's i3 and i8 [w/videos]

Uncovering more details on BMW's i3 and i8 [w/videos] originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 29 Jul 2011 16:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bmwbmw ibmw i3bmw i8i3i8megacityFri, 29 Jul 2011 16:58:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20004533/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/07/29/uncovering-more-details-on-bmws-i3-and-i8-w-videos/20004533/article-detail.xml 20004533 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/07/bmw-i8_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/07/bmw-i8.jpg <![CDATA[BMW i3 and i8 revealed [UPDATED w/video]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/29/bmw-i3-and-i8-revealed/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/29/bmw-i3-and-i8-revealed/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/29/bmw-i3-and-i8-revealed/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

BMW i3 and i8

We've just touched down in Frankfurt to get all the details on BMW's new electric cars, but before we get into the nitty-gritty of BMW i, its philosophy and the engineering behind it, here's a brief introduction to the first two models, the i3 and i8. Officially, the two artfully greenhoused cars seen above are 'concepts,' but they're actually anything but. Click through to the jump to read all about them.

UPDATE: Added a few live images, along with the first promo vid. More to come.

Continue reading BMW i3 and i8 revealed [UPDATED w/video]

BMW i3 and i8 revealed [UPDATED w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 29 Jul 2011 06:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bmw evbmw ibmw i3bmw i8frankfurt 2009frankfurt 2011frankfurt motor showi3i8megacityFri, 29 Jul 2011 06:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20002547/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/07/29/bmw-i3-and-i8-revealed/20002547/article-detail.xml 20002547 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/07/01-bmw-i3-i8-live-1-630op_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/07/01-bmw-i3-i8-live-1-630op.jpg <![CDATA[BMW i3 priced at $35K with 160-mile range?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/05/17/bmw-i3-priced-at-35k-with-160-mile-range/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/05/17/bmw-i3-priced-at-35k-with-160-mile-range/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/05/17/bmw-i3-priced-at-35k-with-160-mile-range/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

bmw i3 spy photo
Spy Shots: BMW i3 - Click above for high-res image gallery

The electric vehicle market continues to grow, and BMW is going to be a major part of that expansion. The 1 Series-based Active E will be arriving soon, with a per-month lease rate of $499 and $2,250 due at signing. Following the release of the Active E, the BMW i3 will head to market sometime in 2013 with a reported sticker price of around $35,000.

The rear-wheel-drive i3 is powered by a 150-horsepower electric motor and a battery system that will reportedly offer drivers a range of up to 160 miles. Besides being a premium compact EV, the BMW i3 is also an adept drifter in the snow. Keep your eyes peeled come auto show season, because a non-camouflaged version is bound to show up soon.

BMW i3 priced at $35K with 160-mile range? originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 17 May 2011 10:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bmwbmw ibmw i3electric bmwelectric vehiclei3Tue, 17 May 2011 10:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19942099/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/05/17/bmw-i3-priced-at-35k-with-160-mile-range/19942099/article-detail.xml 19942099 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/03/02-bmw-i3-spy-cp-mar-630op_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/03/02-bmw-i3-spy-cp-mar-630op.jpg <![CDATA[BMW considering range extender for future EVs]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/04/06/bmw-considering-range-extender-for-future-evs/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/04/06/bmw-considering-range-extender-for-future-evs/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/04/06/bmw-considering-range-extender-for-future-evs/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

BMW i
BMW i - Click above for high-res image gallery


During today's Innovation Day presentation in Munich, BMW's head of electrical components, Dr. Christian Schmidt, revealed that the automaker is considering adding a range extending engine to its future electric vehicles.

BMW has maintained from the beginning that its recently announced "i" program will include a variety of drivetrains, ranging from the current mild hybrid fitted to the 7 Series AcriveHybrid to a full EV in the form of the i3. A plug-in hybrid will be employed on the i8, with an internal combustion engine mounted amidships and two electric motors - one driving the rear wheels and another up front - allowing the i8 to run on electric power alone or use the combination of the ICE and electric motors to boost performance.

However, the possible implementation of an EV fitted with a range-extending motor (à la Chevrolet Volt) would allow drivers to run on electric power alone for short drives, with the range extending engine kicking in to feed the battery for longer drives. Conceivably, the powerplant could even sprout from the new series of three- and four-cylinder turbo engines under development.

Schmidt wouldn't elaborate on what vehicles could benefit from a range extender, but was quick to point out that during the Mini E evaluations, range complaints were minimal. However, each consumer's needs are different and a range extended hybrid is likely to be another cog in BMW's i Mobility plans.

BMW considering range extender for future EVs originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 06 Apr 2011 06:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bmwbmw iextended rangehybridi seriesi3i8plug-in hybridWed, 06 Apr 2011 06:28:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19904462/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/04/06/bmw-considering-range-extender-for-future-evs/19904462/article-detail.xml 19904462 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/04/01-bmw-i630_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/04/01-bmw-i630.jpg -1 2