BMW is scheduled to hold a press conference in Germany today announcing the a new “i” sub brand which will offer a badge to all the upcoming BMW electric vehicles.
The “next premium” automobile, as BMW calls it, was previewed through designer sketches back in 2010 when BMW’s Chief Designer Adrian Van Hooydonk shared BMW’s future strategy and electric mobility. BMW aims to become the world’s leader in premium electric vehicles with the new Megacity family of electric vehicles.
In a past interview, Van Hooydonk said: “The sub-brand offers a chance to innovate as well as feature BMW’s customary design quality and detailing.”
The Megacity will be offered in a two-door, four-seat configuration. The car will measure around 157 inches. In the future, the MCV sub-brand will include two additional models. First one due in 2015 and dubbed ICV, short Intracity Vehicle, will be a two-door, two-seat car. In 2017, UCV – Urban Commuter Vehicle -will extend the length of the initial MCV and has four doors while hosting five people.
BMW Megacity is powered by a lithium-ion battery with 35 kWh of capacity placed below the vehicle’s floor. Rear-wheels approach remains in BMW’s philosophy and the power is sent to the rear wheels through a rear-mounted 150-hp electric motor. Driving range is expected to top at 100 miles and top speed at 95 mph.
Source: BMWblog