23 Aug 05 15:20
BMW X3
BMW is to show two concept cars at the Frankfurt Motor Show: a hybrid version of the X3 4x4 and a Z4 coupe. The X3-based hybrid will feature high-performance capacitor technology which enables the storage of power which can be released in strong bursts for sudden acceleration; so-called "syncaps" are lighter than a full hybrid powertrain, and can be stored in the door sills.
Nearer to production, the Z4 coupe will appear in concept form. To be built alongside the roadster in Spartanburg, South Carolina, it will be fitted with a 260bhp straight-six 3.0-litre engine, with M versions getting a 360bhp version of the M3's 3.2 straight-six. It will have a more conventional fastback tail end than the M Coupe hard-top, which failed to sell in any great numbers. BMW expects the standard version to compete against the Porsche Cayman, but ambitiously hopes that the Z will steal some sales from the 911. Production will start next summer.
BMW is also to exhibit infrared night vision technology, to be offered with the 7-Series from the autumn. This uses a thermal-imaging camera mounted on the left-hand side of the front bumper, which projects images of pedestrians and other living bodies onto a screen in the dash. Mercedes is also to show similar technology in its new-generation S-Class.(Automotive News).
