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NEWS
December 29, 2014
BMW Proposes Solar Carports to Complement the i Series
BMW Solar Carport Concept
A Solar Carport Designed for the i Series
To coincide with the launch of BMW's new "i Series" lineup, which proposes sustainable mobility centered on EVs, BMW has designed a solar-powered carport. The fact that BMW aims to reduce CO2 not only through vehicle development but also through these "essential" car accessories highlights BMW's forward-thinking approach and its unique, brilliant ideas.
Text by SAKURAI Kenichi
Supplying Green Power from Solar Energy to EVs
BMW has launched full-scale global sales of its "i Series," the world's first premium EV and hybrid models specifically designed for zero-emission mobility. In Japan, deliveries have begun with the pure EV model "i Series" which can be optionally equipped with a range extender engine. The launch of the "i3" and the plug-in hybrid model "i8" which prioritizes EV driving, is also imminent.
While promoting sustainable mobility through the "electrification" of vehicles, BMW also plans to support a futuristic car lifestyle using EVs and PHEVs through various innovative ideas. The "Solar Carport Concept" with solar power generation, announced this time, is one such initiative. This is a study by the automaker itself to design and offer a carport that matches the BMW i8 and i3, featuring both design and power generation capabilities.
This Solar Carport Concept was developed by the BMW Group's "Designworks USA." As the name suggests, it is a carport that integrates a power generation system and a storage system, with solar panels embedded in the roof to capture sunlight. The generated electricity is stored in a built-in wall box to charge the vehicle. A key feature is its exterior design, which matches the BMW i Series. In addition to carbon, the support pillars use "bamboo," a fast-growing and sustainable material attracting attention.
BMW Solar Carport Concept
A Solar Carport Designed for the i Series (2)
Automatically Adjusts Power Generation Balance
The solar panels used for power generation are semi-transparent "Glass on Glass" solar modules, known for their high durability and significant energy yield. For panels used in Europe, a 30-year manufacturing warranty is provided.
Under favorable conditions, such as clear skies, vehicle charging can be entirely powered by green electricity from solar generation. However, if there is a shortfall, existing grid power can be used. The wall box determines the need for grid power based on the amount of electricity generated by solar power and analyzes the optimal charging process.
Conversely, if the solar power generated by the panels exceeds the amount needed for vehicle charging, the surplus electricity can be supplied to the household for regular use.
It's only natural that owners of the environmentally conscious i Series would want to use CO2-free green electricity for charging. The Solar Carport Concept, designed by BMW Group's Designworks USA, can be considered a "peripheral device" that matches this advanced car lifestyle in both design and concept. For users with shorter daily commutes, 100% carbon-free daily driving is entirely possible.
Incidentally, Designworks USA is a subsidiary of the BMW Group headquartered in California. However, it serves not only the BMW Group but also a wide range of international clients, handling design across various industrial sectors.The PC mouse introduced previously, the bobsleds for the US Olympic team, the first-class cabins for Singapore Airlines, and the train cars for the US BART (Bay Area Rapid Transit) are all works by Designworks USA.