Born Electric: The Ultimate Battery Electric Vehicle
Summary
In this article, we discuss the design process and features of the BMW i3 and i8, also known as Born Electric. These vehicles are the ultimate version of a battery electric vehicle, with a unique platform and design that maximizes range and minimizes the use of expensive batteries. The i3 and i8 are not just concept cars, but a promise of what’s to come in the future of electric vehicles.
Table of Contents
- The Design Process
- The Drive Module and Life Module
- Maximizing Range with Carbon Fiber
- The Gasoline Motor Option
- Investing in Electric Vehicle Technology
- The Promise of the i-Series
The Design Process
The BMW i3 and i8, also known as Born Electric, are the ultimate version of a battery electric vehicle. The design process for these vehicles started in 2008, with form and function coming together to create a unique design that maximizes aerodynamics. The cars look as if the wind has actually designed the dynamic line work you see on them.
In the front, there are two elements called the air curtain, which allows air to shoot through and come from behind the front wheels, up and over the rocker panel, and then out across the rear fender. The rear taillight is cut in the BMW U-shape.
The Drive Module and Life Module
The i3 concept car has a very unique platform. It has what is called the drive module, which is an aluminum chassis where the batteries are mounted down low for a low center of gravity. Mounted to that is what is called the life module, which is made out of carbon fiber. The drive module and life module work together to create a lightweight yet strong vehicle.
Maximizing Range with Carbon Fiber
Weight is the enemy of range when it comes to an electric vehicle. Batteries are very heavy and expensive, so the use of carbon fiber allows BMW to maximize the range without using as much battery power to travel the same distance. The i3 and i8 can travel roughly 80 to 100 miles in pure battery electric mode.
The Gasoline Motor Option
For those with range anxiety, BMW offers an option to add a small gasoline motor with a small gasoline tank. This allows you to essentially double your range, getting an additional 80 to 100 miles using the gasoline motor to charge the battery.
Investing in Electric Vehicle Technology
BMW has invested in all the technology needed to make the i-Series a reality. There is no magic bullet, but they see real potential in battery electric vehicles as well as plug-in hybrid vehicles. You can expect to see a lot more of that going forward.
The Promise of the i-Series
The i-Series was an idea that BMW could hit the reset button and design something very purpose-built. The i3 and i8 are not just concept cars that won’t become a reality. These vehicles, or something very close to them, will arrive in 2013. This is a promise, not just some weird concept that we’re looking at.
