BMW today showcased two of its concept electric cars of future, the BMW i3 and BMW i8 at Munich. These cars have been showcased to give a glimpse of BMW’s vision about its upcoming electric cars to be launched in 2013-14. The concept cars are a display of vision and ethnological capability and innovation of a car maker. With the stunning designs and radical aesthetics of the BMW i-series, BMW has attracted millions of eyeballs.
image- BMW i8
Norbert Reithofer, Chairman of the Board of Management of BMW AG, at the premiere of the two vehicles in Frankfurt quoted:
We are marking another milestone in the history of the BMW Group. As Chairman of the Board and an engineer myself, I am very proud of this project. As the world’s leading premium car manufacturer, our aim is to offer customers purpose-built electric-drive cars as well.
image- BMW i3
With its zero-emission electric drive and a range of approximately 150 kilometers, the BMW i3 Concept has been specifically developed for use in an urban environment, its dynamic 125 kW electric motor and rear-wheel drive ensuring BMW-style dynamic handling. Thanks to its innovative LifeDrive architecture featuring a carbon passenger cell, the BMW i3 Concept combines an extremely low weight of 1,250 kilograms with optimal interior space and the highest crash safety levels. With four seats and a 200-litre luggage compartment, this vehicle is fully suited for everyday use.
image – L to R – BMW i8 and BMW i3
The BMW i8 Concept goes from 0 to 100 km/h in less than five seconds and boasts fuel consumption of under three litres per 100 km. Its plug-in hybrid drive with a system output of 260 kW allows a range of up to 35 kilometers in electric mode – sufficient for most everyday journeys. For more dynamic driving or out-of-town routes, a high-performance three-cylinder petrol engine also comes into play. The sports car has an electronically governed top speed of 250 km/h and space for up to four occupants.
Klaus Draeger, Member of the Board responsible for Development quoted:
The BMW i8 concept is the sports car for a new generation – pure, emotional and sustainable,”
Both the BMW i3 and the BMW i8 will be built at BMW’s Leipzig plant in Germany. Some 400 million euros are earmarked for investment in new buildings and facilities by 2013, while 800 new jobs are to be created. Vehicle production will be CO2 neutral and will draw on renewable resources. The company is currently investigating the possibility of erecting its own wind turbines on the plant site.
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