The BMW i3 and i8: A New Generation of Electric Vehicles
Summary
BMW’s i3 and i8 electric vehicles are the ultimate versions of battery electric vehicles. These cars are designed to merge form and function, with aerodynamics playing a key role. Both vehicles are inspired by i and have a dynamic design that appears as if the wind has contributed to the car’s line work. The i3 has a unique platform with a drive module made of aluminum housing batteries mounted down low for low center of gravity while the life module is made of carbon fiber. This carbon fiber technology helps increase the range without requiring as many batteries to travel the same distance. The i3 provides an electric range of 80-100 miles, and a gasoline motor can be added to double the range. BMW sees a real potential in battery electrics and plug-in hybrids, and they plan on releasing these cars in 2014.
Table of Contents
- The Design and Inspiration of i3 and i8
- The Unique Platform of i3
- Carbon Fiber Technology for Increased Distance
- Electric and Gasoline Range
- BMW’s Investment in Sustainable Technology
The Design and Inspiration of i3 and i8
Question: Can you explain the inspiration for the design of the i3 and i8?
The i3 and i8 are the ultimate battery electric vehicles, and the design process began in 2008. The cars are designed to merge form and function, with aerodynamics playing a crucial role. The design team took inspiration from the i Series of concept cars, which allowed them to hit the reset button and design vehicles that are purpose-built for the electric powertrain.
Question: Can you describe the aerodynamic design of the i3 and i8?
The front of the cars has two elements called the air curtain, which allows air to go through it, flow around the wheel wells, up and over the rocker panels, and out through the rear. This design provides better aerodynamics and efficiency, allowing the car to travel farther on a battery charge.
The Unique Platform of i3
Question: What can you tell us about the unique platform of the i3?
The platform of the i3 is unique, featuring a drive module made of aluminum that houses the batteries, and a life module made of carbon fiber. This design maximizes the range of the electric vehicle while ensuring the car’s weight distribution and center of gravity are optimized.
Question: How does this unique platform increase the range of the electric car?
Carbon fiber technology is used to reduce the weight of the car, which allows for more batteries to be added without adding more weight. This technology increases the range of the car, which is crucial for electric vehicles.
Carbon Fiber Technology for Increased Distance
Question: What is the importance of carbon fiber technology in the i3 and i8?
Carbon fiber technology is crucial for electric vehicles because it reduces the weight of the car. Batteries are heavy, and the weight is the enemy of the range. By using carbon fiber technology, the weight of the car is reduced, allowing more batteries to be added without increasing the car’s overall weight.
Question: How does carbon fiber technology differ from traditional materials?
Carbon fiber is strong and lightweight, making it an ideal material for high-performance vehicles. It is stronger and lighter than traditional materials like steel and aluminum, and it provides better durability and crashworthiness.
Electric and Gasoline Range
Question: What is the electric range of the i3 and i8?
The i3 provides an electric range of 80-100 miles, while the i8 hasn’t released a definitive range. However, the i8 will have a hybrid engine and an electric motor to provide improved efficiency.
Question: How does the gasoline motor work with the electric battery to increase the range?
The gasoline motor can be added to provide an additional 80-100 miles of range on the battery charge. This feature is ideal for those who experience range anxiety and want some extra backup power.
BMW’s Investment in Sustainable Technology
Question: What is BMW’s vision for sustainable technology?
BMW sees the potential in battery electric vehicles as well as plug-in hybrid vehicles. They are investing in sustainable technology to make these types of vehicles a reality for consumers. Battery electric vehicles and plug-in hybrid vehicles have the potential to reduce emissions, improve air quality, and reduce the world’s dependence on fossil fuels.
Question: When can we expect the i3 and i8 to be available to consumers?
The i3 and i8 will be available to consumers in 2014, as BMW is committed to making these electric vehicles a reality for consumers. The i3 is not just a concept car that won’t make it to reality, but it is a promise to come to market.
