(February 11, 2011) The 2011 Geneva Motor Show will see the world introduction of the BMW ActiveE.  Based on the current BMW 1 Series Coupé, the BMW ActiveE is the second electric test vehicle to be created by the BMW Group.

The company says the ActiveE is the next step following a global test program including 600 electric versions of the BMW Mini Cooper.

The ActiveE is a testbed for the electric drive system the company plans to use in its coming Megacity Vehicle, or MCV, which is meant to solve some of the problems associated with motor-vehicle mobility in densely populated urban centers. BMW says it plans to launch the MCV under a sub-brand in 2013.

With four seats and a luggage compartment of 7 cubic feet, the BMW ActiveE is the first electric vehicle from the BMW Group to combine the space and comfort of a traditionally powered BMW with a fully electric drivetrain.  Intelligent packaging ensures that the driver and all three passengers have the same head, leg and shoulder room as they would in a standard BMW 1 Series Coupé.

At the heart of the BMW ActiveE is a powerful electric synchronous motor which propels the car from zero to 60 mph in just nine seconds, delivering 168 horsepower and maximum torque of 184 pound-feet of torque, from a standing start. Its top speed is electronically limited to 90 mph. 

Replacing the engine block, transmission and fuel tank are three large energy storage units containing lithium-ion cells. The car is expected to travel 100 miles on a charge.

The BMW ActiveE retains the dynamic looks of the traditionally powered BMW 1 Series Coupé but with circuit inspired graphics, a scoop in the hood and a closed rear apron, with no exhaust pipes, to distinguish it.

The BMW ActiveE is not dependent on a specific energy source and so can be charged using 32-ampere wallbox in five hours, or overnight from a conventional domestic socket.  This allows greater flexibility allowing the car to be charged wherever there is an electricity supply.

Starting in 2011, a test fleet of over 1,000 BMW ActiveE vehicles will be trialled in the U.S., Europe and China and will provide valuable insights into the everyday use of the electric vehicle.