Geneva Preview: BMW X5 2.0-liter Twin Turbo Diesel Hybrid Concept

We finally managed to discover BMW's mystery concept car for the Geneva Show (see here): it's the “Vision EfficientDynamics”, or as we prefer to name it, the X5 2.0-liter Twin Turbo Diesel Hybrid Concept. The prototype model offers an insight into BMW’s EfficientDynamics technologies that are set to find their way into production models in the near future.

The X5 Concept combines BMW’s all-new, twin-turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder diesel engine with a compact generator that, for the first time, is flange mounted directly onto a new eight-speed automatic gearbox. The 2.0-litre diesel engine delivers 204hp and 400Nm of torque between 2,000 and 2,250rpm while the mild hybrid concept generates a further 20hp and 210Nm of torque under acceleration.

According to BMW, while the Vision EfficientDynamics concept completes the sprint from zero to 62mph in just 8.9 sec it boasts an avg. fuel consumption of 36.5 MPG (US) or a mere, 6.5-liters per 100 km and just 172g/km of CO2 emissions. -Continued after the jump (Picture modified by Carscoop)

Apart from the hybrid system, the prototype also features a Brake Energy Regeneration system which utilizes highly efficient lithium-ion batteries in the boot area to store the power generated which can be used to power the air conditioning, electric coolant pump and the electric power steering system.

Additionally, the prototype X5 is fitted with roof mounted photovoltaic solar panels, measuring 1.0 square meter. The energy generated can either be used immediately or stored for later use. Importantly, the power created in this zero- CO2 way can be used to pre-heat the diesel fuel. The less efficient warm-up phase is thus shortened considerably.

The chassis and ride-height of the X5 have also been adapted for the BMW Vision EfficientDynamics. This includes the aerodynamically-efficient but gargoyled 19-inch light alloy wheels with reduced ventilation.