We can't say we were surprised to learn than BMW doesn't plan to build a diesel-electric hybrid like the Vision EfficientDynamics car shown in Frankfurt. It has nothing to do with the far-out styling and everything to do with cost.
"It would not be the most optimal use of finances to put a hybrid system with a highly efficient, three-cylinder diesel engine," said Tom Baloga, vice president of engineering for BMW of North America.
"The Vision EfficientDynamics was a combination of a lot of technologies that we expect to introduce -- a three-cylinder engine, a full hybrid system, battery electric power. We're confident that all of this technology will make its way into our fleet, but more than likely not all in one vehicle."
cwc1 says:
06:37 PM, 11/10/09
When dealing with the news media, it's all about the hype rather than feasibility. Thus, the reason for this concept.
estreka says:
03:39 AM, 11/11/09
I'm glad IL has been harping on automakers for reneging on their promises, particularly with Chrysler.
In this instance, however, I think it's fine that BMW isn't following through. It's a pretty profound concept.
rallyandbosox says:
07:03 AM, 11/11/09
It's so they can focus on producing travesties such as the X6 hybrid.
roadburner says:
01:14 PM, 11/11/09
In my opinion the Vision EfficientDynamics is analogous to the 1972 Turbo concept car, which also introduced a new design language as well as advanced(for the time) engine technology.