BMW is preparing plug-in electric vehicles

BMW is preparing plug-in electric vehicles and hybrid as dedicated models like the i3 and i8, and as alternative powertrain versions of its mainstream cars. Ian Robertson, BMW's sales and marketing board director, predicts the i3's range extender engine option will be popular. "It's a comparatively inexpensive option and I think the take will be high," he tells Motor Trend. "Plug-in hybrid will be 15 percent, or more, of the premium segment in 10 years." The range extender consists of a small two-cylinder engine. It doesn't drive the wheels and doesn't add to performance, a contrast to the combustion engine in the i8, which is geared to the wheels. The i8 can use all its power only when the engine is running.  "Mainstream" PHEV sedans would use the ActiveHybrid system now available in the 5 Series, and shortly the 3 and 7 Series, as a base. The system consists of a regular BMW gas engine and eight-speed automatic, with an electric motor sandwiched between the engine and transmission. Software-actuated clutches on either side allow the two sources to energize the car in various combinations. By increasing motor power and battery capacity, BMW has all it needs for a PHEV. "It's no secret that we have the rights to all the i numbers," Robertson says. "No decisions have been made yet as to cars other than the i3 and i8, but this range isn't a one-off." Surely, a range extender would turn a larger car, a notional i5, into an attractive proposition.

The i8 plug-in hybrid 2+2 supercar, which Robertson indicates will cost "more than $100,000 because it's a super sports cars," will use a mid-mounted 1.5-liter turbocharged gas engine driving the rear wheels, with an electric motor for the front wheels. Combined gas and electric engine power output is now confirmed at 349 hp and 405 lb-ft of torque, with a manufacturer's estimated 0-62 mph in less than 5 seconds. Robertson has driven the i8 several times during development, and says the huge engineering task of integrating the two power sources seamlessly is complete. He grins, describing the instant torque: "It really thumps you." The company unveiled another concept of the i3 four-seater that's "90 percent of production," per Robertson. The main change will be the glazed lower portion of the doors. On both the i3 and i8, they'll change to something similar to those on the i8 Spyder concept. The unveiling took place at the world's first dedicated i showroom, in London. BMW will open another in New York within a year, as well as in three more European cities and Tokyo and Shanghai. Robertson estimates fewer than a quarter of regular BMW service shops will be able to handle i models because of the training needed to handle their carbon fiber and high-voltage electronics.

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The i cars will offer a mobility package called 360o Electric, which includes access to a mobile charging truck if the battery runs flat. It also bundles installation of a specially designed home charger, premium city charging spots, and smartphone apps for access to such services as swapping for a gas vehicle for specific trips. The aim is to answer an apprehensive buyer's every last FAQ about electric cars.World production of carbon-fiber composite is about 30,000 tons, Robertson continues, much of it in fishing rods. BMW will add to that with these cars. It has acquired a great lead in making large sheets of the stuff, and "that journey hasn't been an easy one." It gives BMW a unique selling proposition.