We brought you the first official details on the Vision EfficientDynamics concept straight from last year's Frankfurt Auto Show, but here's a quick refresher: it's a three-cylinder diesel, four-door, plug-in hybrid that promises M Division performance from its combined 356-horsepower, 590-pound-foot output.
The arrangement of the hybrid powertrain allows the diesel engine to drive the rear wheels directly or with assistance from a rear-axle electric motor through a six-speed gearbox, while the electric motor up front drives the front wheels on pure electricity, and all three systems can work in tandem for maximum performance. This delivers a range of possibilities for in-town and performance driving.
Reaction to the 356-horsepower and 590 pound-feet of torque plug-in electric (one lithium-polymer battery stack + two electric motors) with dedicated lighter-weight three-cylinder diesel range-extending engine mounted amidships has been off the charts. Now we're all waiting for more details and, of course, that sticky price issue.
According to the report on the Vision's production path, BMW is looking at turning the highly conceptual design into a production-ready car for 2013. Target volumes are about 5,000 to 10,000, meaning BMW is planning to make the car at least reasonably affordable. Despite the relatively high volume targets, the report indicates BMW is envisioning this car as a successor to the M1, a legend in its own right, and progenitor of the M Division.
We may be able to look forward to a preview of the new plug-in hybrid this summer, possibly leading up to a nearer-to-production concept preview at Paris. One thing that's for sure, according to the report, is that the long and clumsy Vision EfficientDynamics name will be making a quiet exit. And 2013 will be one interesting year for performance electrics.
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