The future engines installed on the BMW made cars would be of lesser power and size. This is being contemplated with an idea to reduce the emissions and improve fuel efficiency. This was declared by BMW CEO Norbert Reithofer. This decision would also effect the ‘M’ division of BMW and their manufacturing process. With BMW launching their latest 2011 BMW 5-Series the testing phase of the car by Motor Authority is yet underway.
The policy of high power cars for their M division cars for BMW may be about to go in for a change. The X5M and the X6M SUVs with their twin turbocharged V8 units have been known for their potential. There is also inside news that the M5 which would be launched in early 2011 is also powered by a twin turbo V8 which is a high performance high power engine instead of the naturally aspirated V-10. This design makes sense as the 2011 BMW 550i would have a more somber tuned twin turbo V8. It also concludes that the 2011 M5’s engine holding space would cater for the larger size engine which is fitted on the M division cars.
The twin turbocharged 4.4 liter V8 engine that is installed on the X5 M and the X6 M models produces 555 hp and 500 lb ft of torque. The SUV therefore accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in just 4.5 seconds. The power is sufficient for the M5 sedan which is lighter and smaller. As it is the M5 sedan has an engine that delivers 30 hp more than what the new E63 AMG engine delivers.
The V8 would have a matching M-DCT dual clutch system found on the M3 from BMW and also a conventional six speed transmission system option would also be given for the purists.
Extensive usage of lightweight material like carbon fiber and aluminum ensures that the car is lightweight in overall standards. The front section of the car would be constructed with aluminum spaceframe material and the rear section from steel monocoque. The weight distribution would therefore be a favorable one. For suspension MacPherson struts would be used having a multi-link layout for the rear. The roof is expected to be an unpainted one and usage of lightweight material for the boot and fender panels is expected.
The 2011 Geneva Motor Show should witness the launch of this vehicle and sales would start soon thereafter.
Source: motorauthority
