EV Archives

Piston.my

EV

New Nissan Townstar aims to continue lead in electrified LCV segment in Europe

A new entry in the European light commercial vehicle (LCV) market is the Nissan Townstar, with a future-proofed powertrain that is electrified but also having a petrol engine option. Said to be Nissan most technologically comprehensive LCV to date, it has over 20+ technologies for efficiency, safety and functionality.

The main target of the new compact van is the electrified segment of the LCV market, where the Nissan e-NV200 was a pioneer and leader. “With tougher emissions standards, urban access restrictions and ever-increasing demand for last-mile delivery, businesses large and small need to find effective and sustainable solutions to remain competitive and optimise their operations,” said Emmanuelle Serazin, LCV & Corporate Sales Director, Nissan Europe.

Van and combi versions
Built on the Alliance CMF-C platform, it is developed for optimum efficiency and versatility in urban environments, the Townstar is offered in van and combi (passenger) versions, the latter offering comfortable accommodation for families on the go. Connectivity features such as E-Call, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, and wireless phone charging are available.

The van version is designed for the operations of small and medium businesses, especially in the city. Various configurations are available with up to 3.9 cubic metres of cargo space. The cargo area integrates large sliding doors on the side, with the possibility to have 60/40 French doors with 180-degree opening or a tailgate at the rear.

The LCV can transport two Euro pallets and up to 800 kgs of cargo. It also includes smart storage solutions and a dedicated space for on-board office tools.

285 kms, 42-minute recharging to 80%
The fully electric version has an enhanced 44 kWh battery with advanced EV technology and intelligent energy management. In comparison to the e-NV200, the Townstar powertrain has an output of 90 kW/245 Nm and the range is said to be up to 285 kms on a single charge. With DC charging, an empty battery pack can be recharged to 80% within 42 minutes, it is claimed.

Those who do not want the electric version can still get the Townstar with a 1.3-litre petrol engine. This 130 ps/240 Nm engine is fully compliant with the latest Euro 6d-Full emission regulations.

ProPILOT system in EV version
There’s a broad range of Nissan safety technologies and advanced driver assistance features, including Side Wind Assist and Trailer Sway Assist. Automatic emergency braking is standard as well as Hands-Free Parking and Intelligent Cruise Control, while the Around View Monitor (AVM) is being offer for the first time in the compact van segment.

Nissan also provides drivers of the electric Townstar with the ProPILOT advanced driver assistance system. The system will automatically slow the vehicle to a full stop and accelerate by following the vehicle ahead, as well as keeping it centred in the lane – even around a gentle curve.

The Townstar is first European model to carry the new Nissan brand logo, and the latest model to be introduced under the Nissan NEXT transformation plan. It comes with an industry-leading, pan-European 5-year/160,000 km warranty, plus a separate 8-year/160,000 km warranty covering the battery pack.

Rolls-Royce founders experienced electrified vehicles even in the early 20th century

Just as SUVs eventually reached the highest levels of the car market with the Rolls-Royce Cullinan being Introduced, the process of electrification will also ascend to the ‘summit’ of the industry before this decade ends. Rolls-Royce has already indicated on various occasions that it will offer an electrically-powered car in future and it confirms that this will be fully electric, without a hybrid powertrain.

The company is not intending to rush into launching the new product and says it will do so ‘when the time is right’. In the meantime, its engineers and designers are ensuring that every element meets Rolls-Royce’s technical, aesthetic and performance superlative standards.

Understanding that there is considerable interest and speculation surrounding the development of a totally different type of Rolls-Royce for the future, the company offers some perspectives in its transition to electric power.

*Both founders of Rolls-Royce – Charles Rolls (above) and Henry Royce (below) – had personal experiences of using electrically-powered cars in the early 20th century.*

Henry Royce was an electrical engineer
Interestingly, Henry Royce, one of the founders of the company, was one of the world’s first electrical engineers. Having developed an interest in electrical power, he joined the Electric Light & Power Generating Company (EL&PG) in Southwark, London. Eventually, he was made Chief Electrician at one of the company’s subsidiaries but when the company closed down, Royce chose his own path forward.

He established F. H. Royce & Co, initially producing small electrical appliances such as doorbells, lamps, fuses and switches. The business thrived, and was soon producing larger, more complex devices such as dynamos, electric motors and winches. In 1902, Royce supplied electric motors for Pritchett & Gold, a London-based battery-maker that had diversified into building electric cars (yes, there were already electric cars over 100 years ago).

Though Royce himself never built or owned an electric car, he created internal combustion engines with strong torque, silent running and smoothness… qualities which can also be found in electric powertrains.

Electrically-powered cars existed alongside cars with internal combustion engines during the early part of the 20th century. However, their extremely limited range and the absence of a charging infrastructure, as well as bulky batteries, made them less popular as time went on and the petrol and diesel engines became the default powerplants.

Charles Rolls owned an electric car
The other founder of Rolls-Royce, Charles Rolls, acquired an electric-powered car while still an engineering student at Cambridge. It was an American-made vehicle called The Columbia Electric Carriage, and described as a ‘City & Suburban’ car. That car made a strong impression on Rolls who said: “The electric car is perfectly noiseless and clean. There is no smell or vibration, and they should become very useful when fixed charging stations can be arranged. But for now, I do not anticipate that they will be very serviceable – at least for many years to come.”

Rolls made his own small contribution to solving the problem, by providing a battery-charging station at his car showroom for the private or rentable electric Broughams that were popular in London at the time. In 1904, he was to have become an agent for the Contal Electromobile electric car but after meeting Royce and seeing his new car, he didn’t go ahead with that venture.

Phantom Experimental Electric (102EX)
In the spirit of the founding figures, Rolls-Royce Motor Cars aims to be an electrification pioneer in the years to come. It has already been hard at work carrying out research and development for the new model. Some of its Ideas have already been shown to the world in concept models such as the Phantom Experimental Electric (EE), codenamed 102EX, of 2011. This was a fully operational and road-legal battery-electric car – never intended for production – but serving as a working test-bed for clients, VIPs, the media and enthusiasts to experience electric propulsion. Rolls-Royce designers and engineers spoke to all who tried the Phantom EE to help them in their work and understand Issues as well as expectations.

The car’s 6.75-litre V12 petrol engine and gearbox were replaced with a lithium-ion battery pack and two electric motors mounted on the rear subframe, connected to a single-speed transmission with integrated differential. This system gave a maximum power output of 290 kW and torque of 800 Nm, compared to 338 kW and maximum torque of 720 Nm for the V12 Phantom of the time.

VISION NEXT 100 (103EX)
The VISION NEXT 100 (103EX), presented in 2016, was a radically innovative concept car set out to define the marque’s long-term vision of luxury mobility. Its coachbuilt bodywork allowed clients to commission a car reflecting their personal vision and its size and scale – 5.9 metres long and 1.6 metres high – the car ensured a Grand Arrival on reaching its destination. The EX-suffix confirmed that 103EX was a purely experimental electric car. Following its debut in London, the car embarked on a 3-year world tour, returning to the factory in 2019.

Vaccination does not make you immune to COVID-19 infection. You can still get infected and although you may not show symptoms, you could still spread the coronavirus. Do not stop taking protective measures such as wearing a facemask, washing hands frequently and social distancing.

R RYZR concept is a driving machine you ‘wear’

SAIC DESIGN London, an advanced design studio set up by China’s SAIC Group in England, celebrates its third year of operation this year. Earlier, it presented the MG MAZE Concept, one of two concept studies it developed to celebrate its 3-year milestone.

The second concept is more radical in appearance and is described as ‘a vision of future mobility that explores the boundaries between urban mobility and wearable technology’. Called the R RYZR, it is a fusion between a car and a motorcycle and is the ultimate symbiosis of man and machine. It is a car that you actually wear and enjoy the exhilarating feel of riding.

Designed to recognise the shift away from crowded public transport and the need for more instinctive experiences, it can offer the occupant an escape from crowded spaces by combining cutting-edge technical apparel and augmented reality.

‘R’ is the brand that SAIC is using for its future EVs so while the technical aspects are not provided, it would certainly be electrically powered, giving very zippy performance. The structure is also light and much like a frame surrounding the driver.

“R RYZR is an exciting and visceral vision of the future of urban travel,” said Carl Gotham, Advanced Design Director. “By exploring the unconventional, it unlocks new modes of transports for the future, new experiences and new emotions.”

The concept is designed to achieve the ultimate ease of use – motorcycle agility with car-like stability, while the RYZR clothing concept means no need for an app or a key – the vehicle simply recognises the owner’s jacket instead.

“R RYZR is a useful, agile, practical, and exciting form of urban transport,” added Gotham. “It combines the aesthetic of cutting-edge technical apparel and augmented reality with futurism. It’s an exploration of unconventional mode of transports for the future – new architectures, new experiences and new emotions.”

The MG MAZE is certainly not the sort of MG your grandfather knew

MG Cars (the initials stood for Morris Garages) is often remembered, at least by the older generation, as a brand that produced some classic British sportscars. However, the company which was founded in 1924 was sold to Nanjing Automobile in 2005 and became known as MG Motor after Nanjing was merged with Shanghai Automobile Industry Corporation (SAIC).

While some British brands were acquired by other companies and faded away, MG continued to have a presence, even in the UK. It has a range of modern products today and like other carmakers operating in Europe, is preparing to move into the era of electrification.

Design study by studio in London
Having acquired many of MG’s assets in England from the MG Rover Group, the new owners continued activities there and even set up an advanced design studio in London in 2018. This facility has been developing future products and the latest design study it is showing the world is the MG MAZE. This concept car is electrically-powered, of course, and is aimed at the next generation of car users in cities.

A compact 2-seater capable with agility and functionality, its core focuses are high-technology and emotional design. The exterior features a transparent shell, emulating high end gaming PCs with exposed componentry. The outer surface is fluid and dynamic, exposing aspects of the chassis and interior design, that are otherwise hidden from view.

Mobility and gaming concept
Built around the theme of of ‘Get Out & Play’, the concept brings together mobility and gaming. The gaming aspect of the car reflects a desire to discover and reach new achievements, via a points-based reward system. The MAZE helps users to rediscover their city and their world by seeking exciting digital street art that is interacting with structures, buildings, and landmarks.

Inside the MAZE is a pair of floating seats and UX/UI technology developed to enhance the gaming aspect by giving a fun and enjoyable driving experience. The steering is controlled not by a steering wheel but by the driver’s smartphone… which will probably take some getting used to. But who knows – the next generation of drivers may be comfortable with a different form of control, just as today’s fighter pilots are fine using joystick controls as they grew up using them in computer games.

Connecting digital realm to physical one
“With MAZE, we wanted to consider what the future of a car community might look like, building from MG’s fan base and following. The move to digital is unstoppable, so we wanted to create a concept that connected this digital realm to the physical one that gives us the real joy in driving,” said Carl Gotham, Advanced Design Director.

“The concept is a reaction to our lives during recent months, where we have been met with restrictions and limitations on our ability to move around and interact. Exploring the idea of ‘mobile gaming’, we used MAZE as platform for people to get out and rediscover their environment in a new and relevant way, opening up new experiences with their city.”

Aura concept shows what the British EV roadster of the future could be like

The British auto industry may have lost the greatness it once had but automotive innovation is still very much present. A new generation of tech companies in the country are venturing into developing electrically-powered cars (EVs) that will become mainstream within a decade or so.

Four of these companies have been working on an innovative all-electric two-seater roofless sportscar ‘designed for nature’. The first concept that has been shown to the public this week is called the Aura is developed and built as a fully working, road-legal prototype.

Funded by the British government’s Office for Zero Emission Vehicles (OZEV) through the Niche Vehicle Network (NVN), the concept car is the joint effort of the companies which have pushed the boundaries of innovation and their specialist fields. They are Astheimer Design, BAMD Composites, Conjure and Potenza Technology.

Each one a leader in their field, they started in October 2020 to create a low emission sportscar that is efficient on power and its demands on the world around it. The concept came from the understanding that as the automotive industry evolves, and the transportation needs of individuals change, there will be a demand for a product that encompasses these requirements.

The vision is of a long-range EV that is designed for nature with sustainability at its core. It also showcases the efficiencies of light weight, low drag and innovative uses of technology to solve consumer issues with running an EV. From placing the batteries and motors in optimised positions to providing rear cowling to the wheels to reduce the strain on the sportscar as it glides through the air, the team has also incorporated natural composite fibres for the bodywork that are not only lightweight but more sustainable within the manufacturing process.

Aiming to show that EV adoption is more accessible than users think, its cutting-edge HMI (Human-Machine Interface) not only aims to reduce driver distraction through its driver infotainment (which includes a self-levelling driver display in the centre of the steering wheel) as well as reducing range anxiety through real-world map and charging availability. The Aura is also the first British vehicle to run the Android Automotive OS.

The current projected range is about 640 kms with a rear-wheel drive powertrain having a system output of 88 kWh. Energy is drawn from two 44 kWh lithium batteries with a full charging time is said to be 4 hours using a 22 kW portable off-car charger.

Lotus reveals all-new lightweight structures for future electric vehicles

Just last month, Lotus confirmed it would be launching a new electric sportscar in 2026 – designated Type 135 – as part of a range of electrically-powered performance cars to be manufactured in the UK. The sportscar will have innovative new lightweight chassis technology developed through Project LEVA (Lightweight Electric Vehicle Architecture), which the carmaker mentioned last October.

Project LEVA is a research programme that’s accelerating the development of all-new lightweight structures for next-generation battery electric vehicles. The structure developed through Project LEVA will be integrated into the company’s new architecture for electric sportscars.

This structure represents the ‘blueprint’ for the next generation of electric sportscars, for future Lotus products, and for the Lotus Engineering consultancy to commercialise. One example of its innovation is that the rear structure is 37% lighter than it is on the Lotus Emira V6. It is fully adaptable to provide a platform for a range of vehicle types with variable layouts, wheelbase lengths, battery sizes and configurations.

All three layouts feature a common lightweight die-cast rear subframe with multiple interchangeable components. This is the Project LEVA innovation: it means a single vehicle architecture can accommodate two different types of battery configurations.

The ‘Chest’ layout is where the modules are stacked vertically behind the two seats. A chest layout is a ‘mid-mounted power pack’, ideal for sportscar/hypercar vehicle types where a low overall ride height and low centre of gravity are required, eg Lotus Evija pure electric hypercar.

The ‘Slab’ layout, where the modules are integrated horizontally under the cabin, is most suitable for vehicles where a higher ride height and a taller overall profile is required. It is often referred to as a ‘skateboard power pack’ layout.

The innovative new subframe features cylindrical battery cells for high energy density, with the option of a single or twin electronic drive unit (EDU) to support. Cold cure, spot bonding and advanced weld processes mean reduced environmental impact during assembly.

This unique degree of flexibility and modularity in wheelbase and propulsion solutions will be the genesis for a wide variety of electric vehicle applications. These could be for the Lotus electric sportscar – scheduled for launch in 2026 – as well as for other clients through Lotus Engineering.

“Project LEVA is as revolutionary now as the Elise architecture was in 1996. In true Lotus spirit, significant weight-savings have been achieved throughout, with a focus on ultimate performance, efficiency and safety being engineered into the structure from the outset,” said Richard Rackham, Head of Vehicle Concepts at Lotus. He leads Project LEVA and is best known for his revolutionary work on development of the extruded aluminium Lotus Elise architecture 25 years ago.

Eco-friendly shoes for World Car-Free Day, inspired by the Volvo XC40 Recharge

Cars and shoes… in some ways, they can be considered have similar functions since both ‘transport’ people around, though in very different ways. Cars use energy from the combustion engine or electric motor to move but with shoes, you have to provide your own energy. So it’s not unusual that on World Car-Free Day (September 22), Volvo Cars Canada and Casca footwear will launch a limited-edition sneaker. Available in Canada for $198 (about RM645), the shoes have been inspired by the fully electric Volvo XC40 Recharge.

“At Volvo Cars, we are committed to setting the highest standards of sustainability in mobility and that goes beyond electrifying our fleet to transforming all aspects of our business. The shoe we have created with Casca in celebration of World Car-Free Day, is one way to recognize the many steps we are taking on our journey to climate neutrality,” said Matt Girgis, Managing Director of Volvo Car Canada Ltd.

For a carbon-neutral future
As would be expected, the shoe is all about sustainability in the long term, and both brands have a shared vision for a carbon-neutral future. On Volvo Cars’ part, there is a commitment to reducing lifecycle emissions per vehicle by 40% by 2025 and producing only fully electric vehicles by 2030. Casca’s adoption of water-based, low-energy UV treatment processes coupled with their 2-year product warranty are a testament to their ‘buy less, waste less’ philosophy.

“The Volvo XC40 Recharge was designed to reduce environmental impact, so it was the perfect inspiration for the shoe,” said Kevin Reid Lead Director and Co-Founder, Casca. “Through this collaboration, we’re also celebrating many design firsts – our first shared design, our fastest production to market, and new recycled materials we’ve never used before.”

Scandinavian influences
The goal was to create a shoe rooted in conscious design. Scandinavian influences of the XC40 Recharge were purposefully integrated for a collaborative new interpretation of Casca’s trademark clean lines. For instance, the ‘Thor’s hammer’ headlight influence can be seen in the linework and panelling, delivering a more performance-inspired aesthetic to Casca’s popular Avro silhouette.

The Swedish flag is represented on one shoe tag, while the classic Casca yellow can be seen on the other, honouring the collaboration between the two brands as well as minimalist, Scandinavian design.

Recycled materials
Of course, an important aspect of the shoe is how it is made and its environmentally-friendly credentials come from having 10% of each sole made from recycled car tyres, the first time this material has ever been used in a Casca shoe as part of an intentional repurposing and recycling of materials. Furthermore, 7 recycled plastic bottles are used to make the yarn for each breathable, flexible knit upper.

Those two features are a preview of some of the initiatives by both companies. By 2025, Volvo Cars aims to increase the share of recycled and bio-based materials in their vehicles by 25%. By 2022, all of Casca’s knit uppers will be made from recycled or renewable materials.

*By 2025, Volvo Cars aims to increase the share of recycled and bio-based materials in their vehicles by 25%.*

“We know that being advanced isn’t just about great design and technology; it means implementing ethical and sustainable practices,” said Braden Parker, CEO and Co-Founder, Casca. “This is just one of many similarities we see between our brand and Volvo Cars, we both want to create something with intention that lasts.”

Baojun Kiwi EV uses interstellar geometry design language to draw younger buyers

With electric vehicles (EVs), many of the heavy or bulky components that were needed by a traditional internal combustion engine drivetrain are no longer present. Not only is there weight-saving but less space is also wasted. For designers, there’s a new freedom, just as the switch to front-wheel drive gave interior designers more volume for cabin packaging.

Depending on how bold they are, the designers can now depart from traditional forms that have been used for decades and introduce new styles that may or may not catch on. Perhaps that’s what the designers at SAIC-GM-Wuling Automobile had in mind when they came up with this new compact EV.

Remember the Multipla?
Known as the Kiwi EV (previously designated E300), it joins the 11-year old Baojun brand’s line-up which is made up of low-cost models for the Chinese market. The new interstellar geometry design language of the brand is used for the avant-garde split body styling which may bring to mind the Fiat Multipla. The split body design incorporates a front bumper style which echoes the pattern of radar waves.

Like the Multipla, which was regarded as one of the ugliest cars produced, the Kiwi EV has the sort of appearance that will ‘make or break’. The designers probably made a case that its ‘distinct and personalized appearance’ will appeal to younger consumers who may be tried of the conventional look.

Priced from RM45,000
Customers can choose from 6 exterior colours and each one features its own decorative scheme, taking full advantage of the ‘suspended cab’ concept that gives the vehicle its unique look. Depending on the colour choice, the combinations span up to 3 body tones with contrasting accents on the roof, grille, mirrors, trim and wheels. There are two versions with prices ranging from 69,800 RMB (about RM45,000) to 78,800 RMB (about RM51,000).

Baojun highlights the tech features in the Kiwi EV, and besides its own telematics 2.0 system, it has an artificial intelligence voice interaction system, real-time road navigation, voice-controlled WeChat function and a mobile app for convenient management of functions.

Shorter than a Perodua Axia
The Kiwi EV is 2894 mm long, 1655 mm wide and 1595 mm high, with a 2020 mm wheelbase, which makes it shorter than a Perodua Axia. It comes with a McPherson independent suspension and double wishbone independent suspension design, for a comfortable rid

The powertrain employs synchronous fixed ratio gearbox and the electric motor is mounted behind for rear-wheel-drive. It can generate up to 40 kW of maximum power and 150 Nm of maximum torque which comes on instantaneously. The top speed is claimed to be 100 km/h with a range of just over 300 kms. The battery pack, which can have a capacity of up to 31.9 kWh, supports DC fast charging and an hour is said to be the time needed for charging to full capacity.

British and American police evaluating all-electric Ford Mustang Mach-E

Police forces on both sides of the Atlantic Ocean are showing interest in using the all-electric version of the Ford Mustang – known as the Mustang Mach-E – for patrol and other duties. In response to the interest, Ford specially built a concept unit that it is loaning for evaluations. Some seven police departments in the UK have either tested the new e-SUV, or will soon be doing so.

The Metropolitan Police Force has already assessed the standard Mustang Mach-E and has now requested a full evaluation of the marked concept. A full ‘blue light’ livery test car was built following enquiries from UK police forces looking for greener solutions to the vehicles currently available to them.

RWD and AWD available
The initial concept is a demonstrator Mustang Mach-E Standard Range with all-wheel drive (AWD). Subject to testing of this model, Ford is planning to offer Extended Range version of its rear-wheel drive and AWD versions. The extended battery types would give the police even greater range, and therefore versatility and capability, for police operations.

The new Mach-E, with an output equivalent to 480 ps, is claimed to be capable of 0 – 100 km/h in 3.7 seconds (GT version) and can reach a top speed of almost 180 km/h. Its instant and super-quick acceleration – and quietness – will be useful in a pursuit situation while it is also economical and environmentally-friendly in operation.

2021 Ford Mustang Mach-E GT — *The all-electric Mustang Mach-E which has been on sale since the end of 2020.*

Lowest energy consumption
The Mustang Mach-E is already a Guinness World Record holder after having achieved the lowest energy consumption on a journey in an electric car. It’s capable of travelling up to 610 kms between charges.

The issue of where the power to operate the concept car’s blue lights, sirens and other high-tech equipment would come from, has been addressed by Ford technicians. “The vehicle range is uncompromised as the blue light equipment is being drawn from the vehicle’s 12V battery and not the drive battery,” said Terry Adams, Blue Light Direct Sales Manager, Ford of Britain and Ireland. “In future developments, we will look to increase this battery capacity to allow for additional equipment to be fitted.”

Some of the items in the equipment fitted to the concept car are bespoke mounting pods and brackets to ensure suitable locations are found for operational use, with minimal damage to the vehicle. All lighting is LED with very low power consumption to reduce current draw from the vehicle’s 12V power system. The 999 livery is a first-off design which utilises high specification material to maximise day and night visibility requirements.

Tested by American police too
Over in the USA, Ford has been helping to pave the way for electric police fleets with all-electric, purpose-built law enforcement vehicles. To demonstrate that a vehicle with an electric powertrain can deliver strong performance and stand up to demanding police duty cycles, the company is submitting an all-electric police pilot vehicle (pictured above and below), based on the latest Mustang Mach-E for testing by police in the company’s home state of Michigan.

BMW i Vision Circular Concept demonstrates how the ‘circular economy’ can be used for automobiles

Scrapping cars at the end of their useful life has been a common practice for decades. The metal and plastic parts that can be extracted can be reused for other goods – but not necessarily cars again. BMW thinks that cars of the future should be made from nearly 100% recycled materials. This will support the idea of a ‘circular economy’, where materials are continually reused, rather than discarded at the end of a single product’s lifespan, as in the conventional linear economy.

To demonstrate how the circular economy can be applied by the auto industry, the carmaker built the i Vision Circular concept which is a compact EV that might be in use in 2040. Working with companies like BASF and the ALBA Group, materials like recycled plastics are identified as sustainable materials that go into the construction of the i Vision Circular concept.

The recycling approach applies to the all-solid-state battery pack which is also manufactured almost entirely using materials sourced from the recycling loop. It will achieve much higher energy density with significantly reduced use of the most valuable resources, especially rare earth materials.

BMW also used 3D printing for many interior components, which further helps reduce waste, the automaker noted. The process produces less scrap material, and whatever isn’t used can be fed back into the production cycle as raw material.

Circularity from design stage
“We gave thorough consideration to circularity from the outset during the design process for the BMW i Vision Circular. As a result, this Vision Vehicle is packed with innovative ideas for combining sustainability with a new, inspirational aesthetic – we call this approach ‘circular design’,” explained Adrian van Hooydonk, Head of BMW Group Design.

The number of parts on the bodywork has been reduced as much as possible. Instead of having a chrome surround with bars, for example, the iconic kidney grille has been newly interpreted as a digital surface. Even the brand logo on the front end is engraved and the vehicle badge is laser-etched to avoid using extra add-on parts.

The surfaces below the windscreen are made from secondary aluminium. An additional sensor cluster between the two kidney elements groups together technological features, enabling simple disassembly within a single removable element. The bumper area further down is manufactured from recycled plastic with a sophisticated marbled surface.

Minimum parts and ease of disassembly
Having a small number of different mono-material groups with connections that can easily be undone is crucial for good recycling. For this reason, there are no bonded connections or composite materials and, instead, intelligent types of connection, such as cords, press studs and quick-release fasteners are used. A special socket wrench can separate the component parts joined by the fastener with a single rotation.

The tyres in ‘Vivid Blue Rubber’ are made from certified, sustainably cultivated natural rubber and have a slightly transparent appearance. Extra coloured, recycled rubber particles are added to the tyre compound for strengthening, creating an intriguing terrazzo effect and purposefully highlighting the reuse of materials.

The wheel rims are designed and manufactured with minimal materials use. Rim centres with maximum permeability provide brake cooling, while the more enclosed surfaces to the outer reaches of the wheels ensure the greatest possible aerodynamic efficiency. The wheels are fixed in place with a quick-release fastener at the centre of each wheel.

Only visible when looking from above, a narrow fin is integrated centrally in the rear section of the glass roof. It contains the communications and antenna technology, and provides information on the status of the vehicle (open/closed, charge level of the battery, etc.). It also integrates the high-mounted centre brake light.

Luxurious ambience with recycled materials
Inside, the i Vision Circular is also true to employing materials and production processes that are indicative of a responsible approach to the environment and its resources. But that does not mean it cannot have a luxurious ambience. For this, the interior designers carried out purposeful selection of materials. This involves using not just the right basic materials in the form of mono-materials but also clever new joining techniques for them which avoid the use of glue in order to ensure optimum suitability for dismantling and sorting at a later stage.

In order to minimise the amount of waste and offcuts, all components and materials will be manufactured to fit exactly using processes such as 3D printing. Any surplus material will be systematically fed back into the materials cycle.

The instrument panel is turned into a next-generation ‘phygital’ (a newly coined term that refers to turning digitality into a haptic experience) user interface. Here, it takes the form of a hovering, V-shaped sculpture that projects out into the cabin. At its heart is a 3D-printed, crystal body with nerve-like structures running through it, great visual depth and an enthralling lighting effect. This is where the vehicle’s “thinking” is visualised, allowing the user to see its intelligence at work.

The information area you would normally expect to find in a central information display is located above the instrument panel, at the bottom of the windscreen. This display area takes the Head-Up Display to a whole new level. All relevant information is projected onto the bottom area of the windscreen across its entire width. Driving displays for the driver can be found here together with communications functions and entertainment features for the passengers.

3D-printed steering wheel
The steering wheel forms a link between past and future at the same time as reducing the quantity of material and components. The rim has been 3D-printed from bio-based material, with the wood powder variant shown here giving the steering wheel a natural and warm feel. The unconventional, central positioning of the vertical spoke in gold-bronze adds a modern twist.

The display and operating surface below the windows visible on the outside of the car can be found on the inside too, forming a connecting element between interior and exterior. Here again, it extends back into the rear of the car and around the Hofmeister kink. Featuring the same crystal appearance as the instrument panel and ambient lighting, this element in the sidewall adds to the intriguing and mystical aura produced in the cabin.

BMW makes it clear that the i Vision Circular concept is not the basis or any future model. It has a range of next-generation EVs under development, referred to as ‘Neue Klasse’ (German for ‘New Class’) which may adopt some of the ideas from the sustainability-focused concept car.