Voila! the BMW i3 Concept has been presented! At the Paris Motor Show. BMW definitely knows to draw each and everyone’s attention towards them.
The much Anticipated concept car from BMW was showcased, showing us our future which apparently seems very interesting, if things are going to be this way.
Well now, lets shift out focus to the Drivetrain figures of this concept: The BMW i3 uses an electric motor over the rear axle, which helps in generating an total output of 125 kW/170 hp and an quite impressive torque of 250 Nm (184 lb-ft). This hepls the BMW i3 Concept to run a 0 to 60 km/h (37 mph) sprint in under 4 seconds, and if in case it has to sprint from standstill then, it run upto 100 km/h (62 mph) in less than 8 seconds. This Electric vehicle has driving range which lies between 85 and 100 miles on a single charge.
The new BMW i3 concept’s passenger cell has been processed out of carbon fiber reinforced plastic (CFRP), which means the i3 will be the world’s first volume-produced vehicle with a passenger cell made from carbon fiber, the instrument panel of the BMW i3 Concept showcased at the Paris Motor Show, was fitted with eucalyptus wood, which actually comes from a sustainable cultivation source in Europe and is treated exclusively with natural substances.
While its interior boasts of great appearance, as because the seats are made up of high quality leather, which has a fine attainment of perfomance, with the help of tanning agents favoured from olives leaves. Additional parts of the door trim are made up of natural wool fabric.
This weight saving technology and process (CFRP), would begin to flow down to the mainstream models, as a key component in coming years, with which it will begin off with next 7 series, which is due for 2015-2016. This news was confirmed by BMW R&D chief Klaus Draeger.
The BMW i3 provides excellent space for the all four occupants with a class apart surrounding visibility, as well as it has an impressive 200 liters of luggage space behind the rear seats. The BMW i3 Concept stands at 3845mm long, 2011mm wide and 1537mm high, whereas the five-door i3 is 120mm longer, 326mm wider and 132mm higher than the Mini One.
The plug-in system of the BMW i3 Concept is a compact electric motor which is placed over the rear axle, and from here it draws energy from the battery to so that it can provide drive to the rear wheels via a single-speed transmission. The BMW i3 Concept will be offered with an optional range extender powertrain, which apparently will be called REx, and this would be targeted at those customers who wants to get satisfied with longer commutes.
If the Sources are to be believed then, BMW will launch the i3 ‘city vehicle’ in 2013.
Stay tuned for more updates, and don’t forget to take a look at the pictures which will leave you Numbrstruck! or should i say Awestruck!
