BMW unveiling diesel hybrid concept in Geneva

22 February 2008

BMW will unveil the concept Vision EfficientDynamics vehicle at the Geneva Motor Show next month. The vehicle, based on the BMW X5 SUV model, is powered by a diesel engine combined with BMW ActiveHybrid Technology.

The mild hybrid concept is powered by a 2.0 liter 4-cylinder diesel engine with Variable Twin Turbo, common rail injection and all-aluminum crankcase housing, which delivers 150 kW (204 hp) and generates a maximum torque of 400 Nm between 2,000 and 2,250 rpm. It is the world’s first diesel with a specific power output of over 100 bhp per liter of capacity.

The motor/generator in the hybrid system contributes to vehicle acceleration with 15 kW and maximum torque of 210 Nm. The total output of the vehicle is 165 kW. The generator also produces electricity through regenerative braking. A high-performance lithium-ion battery is integrated in the luggage compartment. The hybrid module is based on technology developed in co-operation between BMW and Daimler.

The average fuel consumption is 6.5 l/100 km over the EU test. The CO₂ emissions are 172 g/km. The vehicle accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 8.9 s. For comparison, the European BMW X5, powered by a 3 liter diesel engine, has a combined fuel economy of 8.1 l/100 km, and CO₂ emissions of 214 g/km.

The Vision EfficientDynamics concept is also equipped with a solar roof which acts as an additional energy source for the vehicle power supply, independently of the engine. Solar cells covering a surface area of about 1 m² generate electric power that enables pre-heating of the gear oil, thereby shortening the inefficient warm-up phase. Direct energy supply is also possible during standstill, for ventilation or for operating audio equipment, a mobile phone charger, or for charging the vehicle battery.

Source: BMW (Press release | photos)