BMW ups EfficientDynamics rollout in local lineup

BMW has announced it is ramping up the introduction of EfficientDynamics technologies across its Australian range over the next 12 months, with 26 models -- nearly half its local lineup -- set to benefit almost immediately from the portfolio of upgrades aimed at reducing fuel consumption and harmful emissions without adversely affecting performance.

In fact, models featuring EfficientDynamics will commence local deliveries this month. One of the first is the new 120d which is equipped with stop start function. The stop start function is currently only offered on BMW's manual models.

The brand's efficiency offerings also include regenerative braking, a shift indicator to help drivers minimise fuel use and active aerodynamics in the form of sensor-activated grille closure.

The automatic 120d model uses the regenerative braking system to claim an 11 per cent reduction in CO2 emissions, and fuel consumption is down to 5.4L/100km (previously 6.1). The 130i Sport Hatch, and 125i and 135i Coupe and Convertible also use brake energy regeneration, while the 125i models feature air vent control.

EfficientDynamics has seen the company substantially redesign its engines and electrics, with power energy-sapping ancillary units -- for example the steering box and the coolant pump -- activated electrically rather than mechanically, and on an as-required basis only. Regenerative braking kicks in on deceleration to help keep the battery topped up.

Lightweight engines using high precision injection systems plus extensive use of thermoplastics and carbonfibre help keep the cars long touted as 'the ultimate driving machine' as fuel efficient as possible.

The improvements will see an average fuel consumption drop of around 7 per cent across the affected lineup, and up to 12 per cent in individual models. The 120d, 130i, 125i convertible, and the 320d and 530d sedans, for example, register 10 per cent reduction, or better.

The expansion will continue further throughout the range over the next 12 months.

The changes herald average price increases of 0.5 to 1 per cent across most of the range, or around $550. The notable exception is the 530d, which drops in price by 1.8 per cent -- a little over $2000.

"BMW is investing in the Australian market with this latest roll-out of EfficientDynamics technologies," says newly appointed managing director for BMW Australia, Stavros Yallouridis.

"Whilst some manufacturers are reducing performance to achieve fuel savings, this is not consistent with BMW's philosophy of offering the ultimate driving machine," he says.

Yallouridis also confirmed the range of models with EfficientDynamics technologies will be extended again early in 2010.

First up we'll see the aforementioned 1 Series models, and the 320d and 335i with brake energy regeneration. The 520d, 530d and 550i models use the regenerative braking system while the 520d will also feature air vent control.

The full X3 range features air vent control and associated decreases in fuel consumption and CO2 emissions. The six-cylinder (petrol and diesel) 7 Series models are equipped with brake energy regeneration system and air vent control. The V8 750 version uses brake regeneration.

The recently released Z4 Roadster efficiency updates include a gearshift indicator and BMW says that despite the added weight by way of the folding metal roof, the new Z4's consumption and emissions ratings are comparable to its predecessor's.

According to the maker, to date BMW has delivered over one million vehicles equipped with EfficientDynamics technologies. BMW claims it was one of the first manufacturers to identify vehicle efficiency as an important topic to consumers. The strategy was announced in 2002.

Over the 15 years between 1990 and 2005 the BMW Group claims its reduction in fuel consumption in the USA was over 10 per cent, bettering "another brand that has a hybrid model".

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