BMW Vision Supercar: Fast, Fuel Efficient, Future

In 2009 at the Frankfurt
Motor Show, BMW
showcased the futuristic
looking Vision Efficient
Dynamics concept. At
the time, you would won-
der if the sports car was
simply a dream show car
or possibly a future supercar?

Well, according to a
BMW source, it is going
to be the latter. A very

similar version of the concept car will be available by 2015 (not to worry,
time will fly!). This car will become a reality because BMW already has
developed or is developing the technology for the Vision.

So what will this supercar offer? It will have a rear electric motor
from the 7-Series Active Hybrid. In addition, a front electric motor
is also reported to be feasible. Furthermore, a 1.5-liter 3-cylinder
turbo-diesel is also in development.

The technology for the Vision is about five years out. It includes
lithium-polymer batteries and a heat-energy-regenerating system.
Additionally, Michelin is reported to be developing new low-resistance
tires that provide great handling for this car.

Regarding the Vision, BMW says not to expect Lamborghini like
performance but rather the goal is for it to have near M3 performance
with the Vision's reported 365 horsepower. What the car will have
is performance, super high fuel mileage and low emissions.

In Road & Track, a BMW official stated that the Vision Efficiency
Dynamics concept has been, "extremely well received and many
potential customers have already asked us to build it." In the next
couple of years, BMW will show a fully running demonstration
prototype of this supercar.

The BMW Vision is a glimpse into what is to come from this and
other sports car makers. One other minor detail is that the car will
indeed be expensive. This future BMW will save fuel but will
such savings cover the car's extra expense? This is something that
automakers need to keep in mind!

Have an auto question or comment? You can email it to me at
Kbusch3@verizon.net. Kyle Busch is the author of "Drive the Best
for the Price..." www.DriveTheBestBook.com.