bmw vision efficientdynamics concept

BMW is talking up its Vision EfficientDynamics concept, which is hitting the automaker's stand at the Geneva Motor Show this year, as having the highest fuel economy ratings and lowest emissions of any four-wheel-drive SUV on the market.
The diesel-powered, X5-based concept reportedly delivers 43.5 mpg on the combined European cycle yet still scoots from 0 to 62 mpg in 8.9 seconds -- a time that's comparable to a similarly-equipped X5 as well as other competitors on the market, according to BMW. What makes the concept even more interesting is that most of its technology sounds production-ready.
The story starts with the 2.0-liter, twin-turbo diesel four that makes 204 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque between 2000 and 2250 rpm on its own. The engine is supplemented by a compact generator that is flange-mounted directly to the gearbox -- an new eight-speed automatic unit developed by BMW in cooperation with ZF that we suspect will be finding its way into other Bimmers in short order. This mild hybrid arrangement, which employs a 120-volt lithium-ion battery beneath the rear storage area, is good for an extra 20 horsepower and about 155 lb-ft when accelerating, according to the automaker. BMW says the batteries could also be used to power systems such as air conditioning and is designed to work in tandem with the vehicle's conventional 12-volt battery setup.