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BMW i3 Coupe: Envisioning a Two-Door Variant of a Signature EV

by Bill SiuruJanuary 28, 2013
BMW’s i3 will roll off the assembly line in late 2013. This will be this automaker’s first production electric vehicle, the culmination of 40 years of development that started with a BMW 1602 that was converted to electric power in 1972. Since then, BMW has developed many electric prototypes and tested several EV fleets under […]

BMW’s i3 will roll off the assembly line in late 2013. This will be this automaker’s first production electric vehicle, the culmination of 40 years of development that started with a BMW 1602 that was converted to electric power in 1972. Since then, BMW has developed many electric prototypes and tested several EV fleets under real world conditions. Its electric-specific BMW i brand includes the i3, i8 Coupe, and the i8 Concept Spyder that’s also planned for production.

The latest BMW variant unveiled is the i3 Concept Coupe, a three-door model based on the five-door BMW i3. While riding on the same wheelbase, the coupe has a broader, lower-slung look. It has two individual rears seats and rear windows that are exceptionally large for great visibility. The elimination of the B-pillar makes for easier access to the rear seats as well. According to BMW, the interior illustrates how the i3 cockpit has evolved as it is readied for series production,

Like the i3, the BMW i3 Concept Coupe uses the automaker’s LifeDrive architecture with its Life and Drive modules. The passenger cell forms the core of the Life module and is built from light and strong carbon fiber-reinforced plastic (CFRP). The drive system, chassis, and battery, along with structural and crash functions, are found in the Drive module made mainly of aluminum.

The coupe uses the pure electric version of BMW’s eDrive technology, like the production-ready i3. This means an electric motor developed by BMW that makes 170 horsepower and 184 lb-ft peak torque delivered to the rear wheels via a single-speed transmission. Lithium-ion batteries are located beneath the floor.

A driver can chose between COMFORT, ECO PRO, and ECO PRO+ modes. Sportiness and comfort are best experienced in the standard COMFORT setting. ECO PRO modifies accelerator mapping so the same pedal travel delivers less power, providing more economical energy management and up to 20 percent better driving range. Heating and air conditioning are also switched to a more energy-efficient mode.

Maximum efficiency and range comes in the ECO PRO+ mode. Besides revised accelerator mapping, top speed is limited to 56 mph (90 km/h) and heating and air conditioning are run at minimum levels. Seat heating, mirror heating, and non-essential components of the daytime running lights are switched off. The BMW i3 Concept Coupe has a nominal range of 100 miles (160 kilometers).

The i3 Coupe navigation system features BMW i ConnectedDrive services tailored specifically for EVs. For example, battery charge status, driving style, electric comfort functions, and the selected driving mode – ECO PRO or ECO PRO+ – are taken into account along with the route’s topography and current traffic conditions. The system can make allowances for the extra energy needed for upcoming hills, stop/start traffic, or traffic jams. The most efficient route is shown as an alternative to the fastest. If necessary, the Range Assistant will recommend changing to ECO PRO or ECO PRO+ mode to increase range.

A driver is informed if his destination is within the vehicle’s range and is advised where to recharge. Shortly before arrival at the destination, charging stations in the vicinity are displayed and the driver can reserve one of them. The system presents charging time required before commencing the return trip or driving to the next destination. A smartphone app with an eRemote function developed by BMW ConnectedDrive for the BMW i also offers this information away from the vehicle.