Electric BMW 1-Series revealed

BMW has revealed official images of an all-electric concept based on the 1-Series Coupe, ahead of its debut in Detroit. Called the Concept ActiveE, it represents the second phase of BMW’s project i, following the MINI E, an ongoing venture to bring a range of zero emissions vehicles to market.

Gone is the MINI E’s front-wheel drive, two-seater layout – a restriction thanks to the batteries sitting where the rear seats should be. With the Concept ActiveE clever packaging has produced space for four passengers, a 200-litre boot and weight distribution similar to the standard car. In keeping with BMW’s philosophy, power is fed to the rear wheels, ensuring the driving experience should be instantly recognisable to current BMW owners.

Power comes from a new electric motor integrated into the rear axle. With 168bhp, 250Nm of torque available from zero rpm and a kerbweight of 1,800kg performance is impressive. A 0-37mph sprint is completed in 4.5 seconds, 0-62mph takes just 9 seconds and the top speed is limited to 90mph.

A bank of lithium-ion batteries sits where the combustion engine would normally be, and features a new stable temperature regulation function to keep it cool. Charging takes place via either a standard home socket or an industrial high-current outlet, the latter tops up the batteries in just three hours, giving a real-world range of 100-miles.

Besides the circuit-board inspired livery and the lack of an exhaust pipe, the visual changes from a standard 1-Series Coupe are minimal. However, a new ConnectedDrive service allows owners to use their mobile phone to check the charge status of their car remotely, as well as activate the heating and air-conditioning systems.