An EV Based on the 1 Series Coupe

BMW has been developing electric vehicle concepts it calls Megacity Vehicles (MCV). The "BMW ActiveE," based on the 1 Series Coupe, one of these MCVs, will be unveiled at the Geneva Motor Show, opening March 1st.

Similar to the MINI E, for which demonstration tests were conducted in Japan last year,MINI Ethis represents a new phase in zero-emission driving. This initiative is part of BMW's "Project i," aimed at developing next-generation mobility concepts. The primary objective of this research into electric vehicles is to create a more advanced urban mobility society through MCVs. BMW aims to promote the wider adoption of electric vehicles worldwide.

Last year, over 600 MINI E vehicles were deployed globally for demonstration tests. In 2011, approximately 1,000 ActiveE vehicles will be used, with initial deployments in the United States, Europe, and China. The core purpose of these demonstration tests is to deeply explore the practicality of electric vehicles in daily life and gather customer feedback, which will then be directly applied to the production of MCVs for commercial sale in 2013.

BMW's EfficientDynamics initiative, which emphasizes aerodynamics, lightweight construction, and high-performance powertrains to develop vehicles like plug-in hybrids that balance environmental performance with driving enjoyment, is a pioneering effort in car manufacturing with environmental concerns in mind. "Project i" can be seen as its evolution.

The ActiveE's powertrain delivers a maximum output of 125 kW (170 bhp) and peak torque of 250 Nm, achieving 0-100 km/h in 9 seconds. Equipped with a newly developed lithium-ion battery, it offers a range of 160 km on a single charge.



Like the MINI E, the ActiveE utilizes the body structure of a conventional internal combustion engine vehicle. A significant challenge in EV development is the added weight from large battery packs. BMW states that they have "made every effort to minimize and optimize this." Simultaneously, practicality has not been overlooked. By housing the batteries in the three locations typically occupied by the engine block, fuel tank, and transmission in conventional vehicles, the ActiveE maintains interior space comparable to the 1 Series Coupe. It offers 200 liters of luggage capacity, sufficient for two 46-inch golf bags.

In terms of design, the ActiveE retains the powerful proportions and dynamic appearance of the 1 Series Coupe, while incorporating distinctive features of an electric vehicle both inside and out. The body is finished in a color called Alpine White, adorned with silver graphics across the entire surface, evoking the flow of electricity. The chassis is equipped with lightweight 16-inch alloy wheels, with an option for sportier 17-inch five-spoke wheels.

The interior features Pearl Grey Dakota leather seats with blue stitching. The dashboard and the area behind the steering wheel also adopt the Alpine White color of the body, ensuring a consistent design theme throughout the vehicle.