BMW EfficientDynamics hybrid supercar: production confirmed

BMW today gave the green light for production of the dramatic Vision EfficientDynamics hybrid supercar shown at the 2009 Frankfurt motor show.

Munich admitted today that the tech underpinning the concept car was 'completely or virtually production-ready' and said that the car will be launched very much as shown in Frankfurt.

It has started roadgoing tests of the 2+2 EfficientDynamics sports car and its three-cylinder turbodiesel hybrid system. Production is tipped to start in 2013.

The EfficientDynamics produces a total of 328bhp, and is as fast as an M3 while supping a fraction of the fuel. BMW claims a 0-62mph time of 4.8sec, yet it can average 75pmg and CO2 emissions stand at a paltry 99g/km.

It's a plug-in hybrid, a charge taking two and a half hours at a domestic socket; lithium-polymer batteries are built into the chassis along a central spine, like on the Chevy Volt. BMW claims a 31 mile EV electric range, though the 24-litre diesel tank brings an ultimate range of 430 miles.

A statement issued today said: 'By developing a sports car based on the BMW Vision EfficientDynamics concept study for serial production, the Munich-based premium automobile manufacturer underscores its position as a global leader in the production of sporty vehicles with exemplary efficiency.'

CAR has previously reported that the EfficientDynamics sports car was a likely member of the new Project i family; it will sit alongside the Megacity Vehicle already previewed and due on sale from 2013.

The acid questions remain unanswered. Can BMW will really deliver a car as complex as this in production form? And at what cost? BMW remains tightlipped on such details, but the news should emerge in the coming months as the countdown to 2013 begins.

By Tim Pollard