BMW Vision hybrid concept on show

BMW's future will be on display at the Frankfurt motor show, in the shape of the stunning Vision Efficient Dynamics concept car.

As well as its striking looks, the car promises to blend supercar performance with supermini fuel consumption and CO2 emissions.

Advanced technology
The Vision Efficient Dynamics has an advanced diesel hybrid powertrain, which uses a mid-mounted, 1.5-litre turbodiesel engine with 161bhp and 214lb ft of pull.

There are also two electric motors one to power the front axle and one to power the rear. The rear motor normally produces 34bhp, but can provide a maximum of 51bhp, and is linked to a double-clutch gearbox.

The electric motor at the front axle normally produces 80bhp, but can deliver 113bhp for up to 30 seconds and 140bhp for up to 10 seconds. Lithium polymer batteries are used to power the motors, with recharging achieved through brake energy regeneration and plug-in technology.

BMW says that the Vision Efficient Dynamics will be capable of supercar-style performance, with 0-62mph in just 4.8 seconds and a top speed of more than 155mph.

CO2 emissions of just 99g/km are also predicted, with an average fuel economy of 75.1mpg.
The car will have a range of 400 miles using just the diesel engine and 31 miles in electric-only mode.

Futuristic looks are F1-inspired
BMW says that the Vision Efficient Dynamics' futuristic looks have been influenced by the company's Formula One experience and are dictated by the car's lightweight construction and areodynamic efficiency.

The sleek front end helps to channel the airflow over the car, with 'active louvres' in the radiators closing completely when the need for cooling is low. The underfloor of the car is fully covered from front to rear, to help it cut through the air as efficiently as possible.

The 2+2 interior uses a number of high-tech, low-weight materials, including body-contoured seats with a Kevlar shell.