BMW is hoping to transfer hybrid technology from its Formula 1 cars to the M sport model range as part of a plan to make the cars more fuel efficient, according to BMW's head of technology research Albert Biermann. ( dpa )
The effectiveness of combining a combustion engine with an electric or hybrid drive was limited. In the long term, the company was looking at more technology transfer from the KERS (Kinetic Energy Recovery System) that will be used for the BMW-Sauber Formula 1 cars in the 2009 racing season, Biermann said.
BMW is currently testing the KERS system in its Formula 1 cars.
The hybrid module consists of an electric motor, generator, battery and steering electronics that is five times smaller and at least five times more powerful than conventional cars.
When the race car brakes, energy is regenerated and stored. The electric motor can then use the energy for the next overtaking manoeuvre, offering an additional power boost. The technology is also said to offer a speed advantage of between 0.2 and 0.3 seconds per lap.