The Vision EfficientDynamics Concept could be used to create the BMW M8 hybrid. Read the whole story.
Auto Zeitung, a German newspaper, is looking into a new plug-in hybrid supercar. It’s based on the BMW Vision EfficientDynamics concept. The “M8” car is a combination of a mid-mounted internal combustion engine and an electric drive, resulting in more than 600 horsepower (447kW).
The concept’s diesel engine could be replaced by the plug-in hybrid that uses the petrol 5.0-liter 507hp (378-kW), engine found on the M5 E60. The engine produces 520 Nm and is paired with an electric motor of 80 horsepower (60-kW), at the front, and a motor of 50 horsepower (37-kW), at the rear. The front motor can produce a quick burst of power that increases performance to up to 115 horsepower (86 kW). The car’s 50-km all-electric range would be possible thanks to the lithium-ion battery. When plugged in to the wall, the battery will need to be charged for 2.5 hours.
The M8 could be produced and would accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h under 3.8 seconds. It is expected to reach speeds well above 300 km/h (186 mph) if it is made. Combining the aerodynamics, electric motors and weight savings, you can expect a combined fuel efficiency of 62 to67 mpg or 3.5 to 3.8 liters per 100 km.
The 2+2 car would weigh in at 1,500 kg thanks to its aluminum chassis, carbon fiber panels, polycarbonate windows, and four individual Kevlar chairs. The resultant vehicle will be 120-kilograms smaller than the Mercedes-Benz SLS. Despite the large dimensions of the M8 (4.6 x 1.9x 1.24 meters), this is possible.
The car is believed to be already in the hands of designers and could go on sale by fall 2013, if the BMW board gives it the green light later in the year. M GmbH, BMW’s performance division, would build the car. It is possible that the car will cost EUR150,000.