BMW VDX brake energy recovery could charge 21 iPhones
We've already covered the BMW Vision Driving Experience concept unveiled in Shanghai last week. But now additional interesting facts have been revealed. It turned out that when braking from 100 km/h to zero, the concept is able to return to the battery as much energy as it takes to charge 21 iPhones.
Here's What We Know
BMW VDX is the most powerful BMW prototype in history. With its help, the company is testing technical solutions that will then be used in Neue Klasse production cars. The VDX's four electric motors together develop 18,000 Nm of torque and 1,300 to 1,700 hp. As a result, one of the car's features is an extremely aggressive energy recovery system for braking.
While models on the Neue Klasse platform won't have such an extreme regeneration system, the iPhone charging demonstration itself highlights the effectiveness of a central computer called Heart of Joy. BMW claims that thanks to this electronic 'brain' of the car, 98 per cent of drivers will not use the friction brakes under normal conditions. The regenerative power will be enough for everyday driving.
The only time the brake pedal will need to be applied is when a sudden stop is required. This approach can increase the overall efficiency of the car by 25 per cent.
Later this year, we'll find out how BMW has adapted VDX technology for road cars. The first Neue Klasse model will be unveiled in early September at the IAA Mobility motor show in Munich - it will be the second generation iX3. It will be followed by a new i3 sedan and iX3 with an extended wheelbase in 2026.
Source: BMW Blog
