Engadget http://www.engadget.com Engadget http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.engadget.com/media/feedlogo.gif Engadget http://www.engadget.com en-us Copyright 2012 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Electric Motor Werks hands-on at Maker Faire (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/22/electric-motor-werks-hands-on-at-maker-faire-video/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/22/electric-motor-werks-hands-on-at-maker-faire-video/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/22/electric-motor-werks-hands-on-at-maker-faire-video/#comments Electric Motor Werks hands-on at Maker Faire (video)

Have a BMW 3-Series that requires major engine work? Want to convert it to electric and improve performance, ActiveE style? The folks at Electric Motor Werks have you covered. Instead of making purpose-built electric cars, the company -- which showed a converted 3-Series sedan and coupé at Maker Faire Bay Area 2012 -- provides affordable and environmentally responsible electric conversion kits for the BMW E46. These are available directly to consumers but Electric Motor Werks is also building a network of installers (via tuner / speed shops) and setting up its own facilities.

We chatted with founder Val Miftakhov who gave us a tour of the prototype kit in the vehicles on display, so head past the break for more information and for our hands-on video.

Gallery: Electric Motor Werks hands-on

Continue reading Electric Motor Werks hands-on at Maker Faire (video)

Electric Motor Werks hands-on at Maker Faire (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 22 May 2012 00:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3-Series5-SeriesAndroidBluetoothBMWE39E46ECUelectric carelectric carselectric conversionElectric Motor WerksElectricCarElectricCarsElectricConversionElectricMotorWerksGooglehands-onJ1772lithium-ionlithium-ion phosphateLithium-ionPhosphateMaker FaireMaker Faire 2012Maker Faire Bay AreaMaker Faire Bay Area 2012MakerFaireMakerFaire2012MakerFaireBayAreaMakerFaireBayArea2012mobilepostcrossOBD-IIVal MiftakhovValery MiftakhovValeryMiftakhovValMiftakhovvideoTue, 22 May 2012 00:55:00 EST<![CDATA[BMW, Daimler partner on ultra-light Visio.M city EV]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/04/bmw-daimler-partner-on-ultra-light-visio-m-city-ev/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/04/bmw-daimler-partner-on-ultra-light-visio-m-city-ev/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/04/bmw-daimler-partner-on-ultra-light-visio-m-city-ev/#comments TUM Mute car

If you like the idea of German electric vehicles like the BMW i3 and i8, but you're worried they may be more than you really need when they arrive next year, you'll be glad to know that a more to-the-point EV auf Deutsch is on the way. Along with Munich's Technische Universitaet Muenchen (TUM), BMW, Daimler and 14 others are jointly developing the Visio.M urban runabout. While it should only muster the equivalent of 20 horsepower, it should be about 45 percent lighter than a Smart Fortwo -- important when you want to use a small battery to keep the cost down. The project is also tackling safety and other chronic problems with tiny electric cars. TUM's MUTE prototype (pictured here) is serving as the testbed for the technology being rolled into the Visio.M, although the €10.8 million ($14.2 million) in funding from Germany's Federal Ministry for Education and Research is expected to produce something more original when the EV project reaches its eventual close.

Continue reading BMW, Daimler partner on ultra-light Visio.M city EV

BMW, Daimler partner on ultra-light Visio.M city EV originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 04 May 2012 22:17:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bmwDaimlerelectricElectric carelectric vehicleElectricCarElectricVehicleEVfortwomutesmartsmart fortwoSmartFortwotechnische universitaet muenchenTechnische Universität MünchenTechnischeUniversitaetMuenchenTechnischeUniversitätMünchenFri, 04 May 2012 22:17:00 EST<![CDATA[Audi, GM, others unite on 20-minute EV charging standard for green drivers in a rush]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/04/automakers-unite-on-20-minute-ev-charging/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/04/automakers-unite-on-20-minute-ev-charging/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/04/automakers-unite-on-20-minute-ev-charging/#comments 20-minute EV charger

Fast-charging an EV isn't new in itself, but deciding on a standard for it is. Which is why we're glad to hear that Audi, BMW, Chrysler, Daimler, Ford, GM, Porsche and Volkswagen have all agreed to a common format for their EV charging ports, the not-very-elegantly-titled DC Fast Charging with a Combined Charging System. Together, the automakers are promising a consistent way to power up a car within 15 to 20 minutes, all without breaking a current Type 1 AC charging implementation. The new format will be demoed at the Electric Vehicle Symposium 26 in Los Angeles starting May 6. Just be aware that your first-generation Focus Electric won't be certain to use the newly universal technology: the first cars to tout the new plug won't be at dealerships until 2013, and the European vehicle association ACEA is only guaranteeing that charging stations on the continent will be using the DC Fast Charging system by 2017. Check after the break for a further look at the port.

Continue reading Audi, GM, others unite on 20-minute EV charging standard for green drivers in a rush

Audi, GM, others unite on 20-minute EV charging standard for green drivers in a rush originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 04 May 2012 01:35:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ACEAaudibmwchryslerDaimlerelectric vehicleelectric vehicle chargerselectric vehicle chargingelectric vehicle charging stationelectric vehicle charging stationselectric vehiclesElectricVehicleElectricVehicleChargersElectricVehicleChargingElectricVehicleChargingStationElectricVehicleChargingStationsElectricVehiclesEVev chargingev charging standardev charging stationEvChargingEvChargingStandardEvChargingStationfordgeneral motorsGeneralMotorsgmPorschestandardstandardsvolkswagenFri, 04 May 2012 01:35:00 EST<![CDATA[Fisker Atlantic EVer unveiled in New York, we go eyes-on]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/03/fisker-atlantic-unveiled/http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/03/fisker-atlantic-unveiled/http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/03/fisker-atlantic-unveiled/#comments Fisker Atlantic EVerFisker's Karma series-hybrid electric vehicle hasn't exactly been receiving a lot of great press lately, but the company didn't let the process of swapping out 640 battery packs dampen the launch of that car's smaller sibling, the Atlantic. This long-expected (and recently spied) auto is a shortened, slightly smaller car that is said to be priced at a "much lower price point" than its predecessor. But, like the bigger Karma (and the even larger Surf), there's an on-board motor that burns gas to generate more electricity to extend that range -- but sadly nobody's saying by how far.

In this case it's a four-cylinder BMW-sourced engine providing that extra range, exhaust peeking out just behind the front-left wheel. A four-banger doesn't sound all that impressive in a car like this, but remember it's only tasked with spinning a generator. Moving the sedan (and its healthy complement of batteries) will be an undisclosed electric powertrain. Sadly no details are being given tonight for performance or cost, but we're told it'll set you back about as much as an Audi A5. Could that mean a $40,000 starting price? That'd be less than half the cost of the $102,000 Karma, and potentially quite a revolution. Needless to say we can't wait to find out.

We weren't able to peek in the trunk, but we're told the new engine provides more space for your junk than the Karma's current arrangement. The car is said to match the A5 in terms of cargo space, which is certainly nothing to sneeze about. Now mind, this is just a concept and things are liable to change on the long road from here to production, but Fisker isn't known for tweaking much along the way. Suffice to say, this should be very close to the car that hits dealerships... eventually.

Gallery: Fisker Atlantic eyes-on

Fisker Atlantic EVer unveiled in New York, we go eyes-on originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 03 Apr 2012 21:08:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>atlanticbmwelectric carelectric vehicleElectricCarElectricVehicleeveverfiskerfisker atlanticfisker ninaFiskerAtlanticFiskerNinahands-onhybridhybrid carHybridCarnew york international auto showNewYorkInternationalAutoShowninanyiasnyias 2012Nyias2012phevseries hybridSeriesHybridTue, 03 Apr 2012 21:08:00 EST<![CDATA[BMW i8 Concept Spyder takes to the road, sounds almost as gorgeous as it looks (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/02/bmw-i8-concept-spyder-video/http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/02/bmw-i8-concept-spyder-video/http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/02/bmw-i8-concept-spyder-video/#comments It's been less than a year since our first opportunity to get up close and personal with BMW's i8 plug-in electric car, and now the German automaker is back to tease a whole new beast. The Concept Spyder made a static appearance over the weekend, but today the sportier i8 has returned to the spotlight, with video footage in tow. BimmerPost managed to share some clips via YouTube, including a straight-cut-gear-fueled drive around a parking lot and across a lamp-lit bridge, somewhere in the Eastern U.S., believe it or not (take note of the I-95 sign in the first few seconds). You can also gawk at some side-to-side pans of the Spyder's exterior, with a few HD interior close-ups to boot. And where can you find said stimulating simulations? Buckle up and click past the break.

Update: That's Miami there in the bridge scene. A perfect setting for the Spyder test drive.

Continue reading BMW i8 Concept Spyder takes to the road, sounds almost as gorgeous as it looks (video)

BMW i8 Concept Spyder takes to the road, sounds almost as gorgeous as it looks (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 02 Apr 2012 19:46:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Bmwbmw ibmw i8 spyderBmwIBmwI8Spydercarcarselectricelectric vehiclesElectricVehicleshybridi8plug-in hybridPlug-inHybridprototypeprototypesspydertransportationvehiclevehiclesvideovideosMon, 02 Apr 2012 19:46:00 EST<![CDATA[BMW adds extra sportiness to its i-series lineup, unveils i8 Concept Spyder]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/31/bmw-unveils-i8-concept-spyder-hybrid-plug-in/http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/31/bmw-unveils-i8-concept-spyder-hybrid-plug-in/http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/31/bmw-unveils-i8-concept-spyder-hybrid-plug-in/#comments Image
We've swooned over BMW's i3 and i8 plug-in gasoline electric hybrids for some time now, so naturally our hearts raced today when the company announced its latest addition to the series, the i8 Concept Spyder. What you're looking at is essentially a sportier version of the i8 Coupe, with the appropriate accents and design tweaks to match. So, what's different in this variant of the nearly gull-winged wonder with a 96 kW / 131hp electric motor up front and 164 kW / 223hp gasoline engine on back? BMW notes that the vehicle features a shorter wheelbase and overall length (all while maintaining its 50-50 weight distribution), a slighter darker interior and refreshed paint job on its exterior, topless roof and even a pair of matching folded kickboards(!) that stow in the back. BMW hasn't mentioned when they'll be showing this Spyder in flesh, but as Autoblog notes, the New York Auto show is only a week way -- and we'll be sure to let you know if we spot it ourselves. In the meantime, you can zip over to Autoblog and the press release after the break for the details.

Continue reading BMW adds extra sportiness to its i-series lineup, unveils i8 Concept Spyder

BMW adds extra sportiness to its i-series lineup, unveils i8 Concept Spyder originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 31 Mar 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Bmwbmw ibmw i8 spyderBmwIBmwI8Spyderelectricelectric vehiclesElectricVehicleshybridnew york auto showNewYorkAutoShowplug-in hybridPlug-inHybridSat, 31 Mar 2012 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[BMW and Toyota come together, right now, over batteries]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/27/bmw-toyota-battery-research/http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/27/bmw-toyota-battery-research/http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/27/bmw-toyota-battery-research/#comments ImageClue's in the headline, really. Car makers BMW and Toyota have finally gotten around to confirming that they're pairing up to research next generation lithium-ion batteries. The focus will be on building environmentally friendly technologies that'll boost the power of future EVs. The duo will also examine new ways of combining materials to build better cathodes, anodes and electrolytes. As part of the deal, Toyota will be buying diesel engines for its European subsidiary from its Teutonic new best friend from 2014.

Continue reading BMW and Toyota come together, right now, over batteries

BMW and Toyota come together, right now, over batteries originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 27 Mar 2012 13:38:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BMWbmw i3bmw i8bmw project iBmwI3BmwI8BmwProjectIelectric vehicleelectric vehiclesElectricVehicleElectricVehiclesi3i8lithium ionlithium-ionLithiumIonplug inplug in hybridPlugInPlugInHybridPriusproject iProjectITMCToyotaToyota Motor CorporationToyotaMotorCorporationTue, 27 Mar 2012 13:38:00 EST<![CDATA[BMW launches Stitcher integration at SXSW (hands-on video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/12/bmw-launches-stitcher-integration-at-sxsw-hands-on-video/http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/12/bmw-launches-stitcher-integration-at-sxsw-hands-on-video/http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/12/bmw-launches-stitcher-integration-at-sxsw-hands-on-video/#comments BMW launches Stitcher integration at SXSW (hands-on video)
BMW announced today at SXSW that it's teaming up with Stitcher to integrate the popular iPhone app's on-demand streaming functionality into vehicles equipped with the BMW Apps and Mini Connected technologies. We ran into BMW's Robert Passaro in the halls of Austin's Convention Center and he was kind enough to give us an exclusive demo of Stitcher inside a lovely BMW 650i convertible ahead of today's launch. Most of the iPhone app's features are available using the vehicle's infotainment system, including the ability to search, provide feedback ("More Like This" and "Listeners Also Like"), and create / remove custom stations -- album art is even displayed in high-resolution alongside show information. Take a look at our gallery below, then watch us tune Stitcher into the Engadget Mobile Podcast right from the BMW's center console in our hands-on video after the break.

Gallery: BMW and Stitcher at SXSW 2012

Continue reading BMW launches Stitcher integration at SXSW (hands-on video)

BMW launches Stitcher integration at SXSW (hands-on video) originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 12 Mar 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appBMWBMW 650iBMW AppsBmw650iBmwAppsexclusivehands-oninfotainmentintegrationlaunchMini ConnectedMiniConnectedmobilepostcrossStitcherstreamingSXSWsxsw 2012Sxsw2012videoMon, 12 Mar 2012 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[BMW My Remote app arrives in the US, 3-Series with stinger missiles due soon]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/16/bmw-my-remote-app-arrives-in-the-us-3-series-with-stinger-missi/http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/16/bmw-my-remote-app-arrives-in-the-us-3-series-with-stinger-missi/http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/16/bmw-my-remote-app-arrives-in-the-us-3-series-with-stinger-missi/#comments
BMW's My Remote iOS app has been available here in Europe for a while. Reenacting the car park chase from Tomorrow Never Dies is one of the principal ways to let off steam on a weekend. Sadly, the company has brought our exclusive fun to an end by releasing the app in the USA -- albeit without the weaponized vehicles from the movie. Once installed on an iPhone, you'll get remote locking, horn and headlights as well as a positioning app so you never get lost in a parking lot. The age and model of your Beemer will decide what features you'll be able to use (full details after the break) but remember Bond: you have a license to kill, not to violate the traffic laws.

[Thanks, Mark]

Continue reading BMW My Remote app arrives in the US, 3-Series with stinger missiles due soon

BMW My Remote app arrives in the US, 3-Series with stinger missiles due soon originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 16 Feb 2012 13:24:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AppAppleBMWCar RemoteCarRemoteGoldenEyeiOSiPadiPhoneiPodJames BondJamesBondmobilepostcrossMy BMW RemoteMyBmwRemoteRemote Car StarterRemoteCarStarterTomorrow Never DiesTomorrowNeverDiesThu, 16 Feb 2012 13:24:00 EST<![CDATA[BMW i8 production prototype goes dancing in a winter wonderland (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/09/bmw-i8-production-prototype-goes-dancing-in-a-winter-wonderland/http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/09/bmw-i8-production-prototype-goes-dancing-in-a-winter-wonderland/http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/09/bmw-i8-production-prototype-goes-dancing-in-a-winter-wonderland/#comments It's been almost a year since we last wrote about the BMW i8 being winter-tested and here it is again -- this time in production prototype form -- doing donuts (!) in the snow. This plug-in gasoline electric hybrid vehicle started life as the Vision EfficientDynamics, promising sub five-second 0 - 60mph times while still achieving an impressive 87mpg (2.7 liters per 100km). We last saw the i8 concept at the Frankfurt Motor Show but the sporty coupé with the funky gullwing-like doors isn't expected in BMW showrooms until sometime in 2014. So for now just sit back, relax and check out the video above.

BMW i8 production prototype goes dancing in a winter wonderland (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 09 Feb 2012 07:07:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bmwbmw i8bmw project iBmwI8BmwProjectIconcepthybridhybrid vehicleHybridVehiclei8phevproduction prototypeProductionPrototypeproject iProjectIprototypespyspy shotspy videoSpyShotSpyVideotestingvideovision efficientdynamicsVisionEfficientdynamicswinter testingWinterTestingThu, 09 Feb 2012 07:07:00 EST<![CDATA[BMW's DesignworksUSA, Thermaltake reveal Level 10 M gaming mouse concept]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/17/bmw-designworks-usa-thermaltake-reveal-level-10-m-gaming-mous/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/17/bmw-designworks-usa-thermaltake-reveal-level-10-m-gaming-mous/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/17/bmw-designworks-usa-thermaltake-reveal-level-10-m-gaming-mous/#comments Themaltake and BMW's DesignworksUSA are apparently a design-team match made in PC gaming heaven. After previously partnering up for the elegant (and functional) Level 10 modular PC case, the two are back at it again -- this time with a focus on peripherals. While details are sparse, the Level 10 M mouse concept you're looking at is the first of the bunch to be revealed, and it's said to arrive sometime during the spring. It's not exactly a shoo-in for MadCatz's Rats, but considering the wire and an aggressively breathable design, it's clearly aimed at pro gamers. Sadly, key specs like its DPI rating and details about any macro functionality are currently non-existent, however, it does appear to be of the optical variety -- here's to hoping it'll perform just as awesome as it looks to the eyes, and for now, hit up the press release past the break for a totally vague description.

Continue reading BMW's DesignworksUSA, Thermaltake reveal Level 10 M gaming mouse concept

BMW's DesignworksUSA, Thermaltake reveal Level 10 M gaming mouse concept originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 17 Jan 2012 21:34:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bmwconceptdesigndesignworksdesignworksusagaminggaming mouseGamingMousehardwarelevel 10Level10m mouseMMousemouseoptical mouseOpticalMousepcpc gamingPcGamingpro gamingProGamingrenderthermal takeThermalTakeTue, 17 Jan 2012 21:34:00 EST<![CDATA[BMW and Toyota to collaborate on future lithium-ion tech, love notes]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/02/bmw-and-toyota-to-collaborate-on-future-lithium-ion-tech-love-n/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/02/bmw-and-toyota-to-collaborate-on-future-lithium-ion-tech-love-n/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/02/bmw-and-toyota-to-collaborate-on-future-lithium-ion-tech-love-n/#comments What kind of doors open when you're Toyota and you sell over three million hybrids? Apparently a partnership with BMW on "next-generation" lithium-ion packs and all sorts of future green debauchery. Whether the collaboration will bear fruit in time for München's upcoming lithium-ion powered i3 and i8 remains to be seen, but the tie-up should save the duo mucho dinero as they pool development time and cut costs with economies of scale. The memorandum will also grant Toyota's European outfit with access to BMW's 1.6 and 2.0 liter diesel engines come 2014. Does that mean we're a little over three years from the bimmer powered oil burning Prius of our dreams? Guess we'll have to find out, but we can't imagine things are exactly peachy over in France right about now.

Continue reading BMW and Toyota to collaborate on future lithium-ion tech, love notes

BMW and Toyota to collaborate on future lithium-ion tech, love notes originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 02 Dec 2011 08:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bmwbmw i3bmw i8bmw project iBmwI3BmwI8BmwProjectIelectric vehicleelectric vehiclesElectricVehicleElectricVehiclesi3i8lithium ionlithium-ionLithiumIonplug inplug in hybridPlugInPlugInHybridpriusproject iProjectItoyotatoyota priusToyotaPriusFri, 02 Dec 2011 08:50:00 EST<![CDATA[Inhabitat's Week in Green: Rolls Royce 102EX test drive, electric unicycle and a sun-powered leaf]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/13/inhabitats-week-in-green-rolls-royce-102ex-test-drive-electri/http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/13/inhabitats-week-in-green-rolls-royce-102ex-test-drive-electri/http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/13/inhabitats-week-in-green-rolls-royce-102ex-test-drive-electri/#commentsEach week our friends at Inhabitat recap the week's most interesting green developments and clean tech news for us -- it's the Week in Green.

Electric vehicle momentum swept the states this week as Inhabitat took a spin in the new Rolls Royce 102EX Phantom EV, and we brought you exclusive photos of BMW's brand new i3 and i8 electric cars. We also showcased six sexy electric vehicles set to hit the streets in 2012, watched a 350MPG EV win the Future Car Challenge, and saw scientists create the world's smallest electric vehicle from a molecule and four motors. Meanwhile, El Al airlines announced plans to launch a line of hybrid-electric Boeing 737 airplanes, Ryno unveiled a crazy electric unicycle, and a team of students revealed Uganda's first electric car.

It was a big week for alternative energy as well as Kenya announced plans to tap lava power with a newly Toshiba-built geothermal energy plant and scientists made a breakthrough in using urine as a viable power source. We also looked into a scientist claiming to have achieved cold fusion, a 'solar cucumber' that harvests fresh drinking water from the ocean, and a sun-powered leaf capable of making ice in the desert.

In other news, green textiles advanced by leaps and bounds as scientists wove fabric from 24-karat gold, researchers developed a reusable fabric that administers drugs through the skin, and the University of Kiel's developed a super-adhesive tape inspired by Gecko skin. We also showcased an incredible set of sculptures made from recycled circuit boards, we watched a crop of styrofoam robots invade Germany's streets, and we saw an innovative self-powered irrigation system win the 2011 James Dyson award. And just in time for the chilly winter season, we found these oh-so-handy texting gloves which feature conductive fingertips that allow you to touch, tap, or type on any mobile touchscreen outdoors without having to remove your gloves.

Inhabitat's Week in Green: Rolls Royce 102EX test drive, electric unicycle and a sun-powered leaf originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 13 Nov 2011 20:49:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bmwboeingdrugdrugsdysonecoeco-friendlyelectric carElectricCarevgeckogermanygoldgreeni3inhabitatinhabitats Week in GreenInhabitatsWeekInGreenirrigationmedicalrolls royceRollsRoycetoiletWeek in GreenWeekInGreenSun, 13 Nov 2011 20:49:00 EST<![CDATA[BMW 3 Series gets 'full-color' heads-up display]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/01/bmw-3-series-gets-full-color-heads-up-display/http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/01/bmw-3-series-gets-full-color-heads-up-display/http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/01/bmw-3-series-gets-full-color-heads-up-display/#comments If you've been hankering for some HUD action in your next auto, you'll have one more choice come next spring: the all-new 2012 BMW 3 Series. The launch will mark the first time a heads-up display has made it into Bavaria's volume seller, after debuting as an optional extra eons ago on its 5 Series. Since then, HUDs of limited hues have permeated München's high-end, splaying speed and navigation directions in the line of sight of road-going elites everywhere. However, this iteration is "full-color," which besides pleasing ROY G. BIV fans, makes it "more intuitive," as the company reasons it'll aid drivers in recognizing crucial alerts faster. That, or we're really just a generation away from über cool AR wizardry and movies on our windscreens. Of course, no word on when the 3's brethren will get the technicolor treatment, but we're betting it won't be long, given that's the dash of a 6 Series you see above. PR, per usual, is after the break.

Continue reading BMW 3 Series gets 'full-color' heads-up display

BMW 3 Series gets 'full-color' heads-up display originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 01 Nov 2011 02:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bmwBMW 3 SeriesBMW F30Bmw3SeriesBmwF30colorcolor displaycolor HUDColorDisplayColorHudF30heads up displayheads-up displayHeads-upDisplayHeadsUpDisplayHUDminipostTue, 01 Nov 2011 02:15:00 EST<![CDATA[BMW presents car-to-x communication, wants vehicles to talk more (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/24/bmw-presents-car-to-x-communication-wants-vehicles-to-talk-more/http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/24/bmw-presents-car-to-x-communication-wants-vehicles-to-talk-more/http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/24/bmw-presents-car-to-x-communication-wants-vehicles-to-talk-more/#comments What good is an Ultimate Driving Machine if it can't get a little help from its friends? A new hazard-dodging system from BMW could help these Bavarian autos get a bit more chatty, each vehicle talking to nearby traffic across long-range wireless networks. In a series of video demonstrations, the car maker shows how the car-to-x system could give advance warnings of traffic, emergency vehicles and weather hazards by enabling one car to beam warnings directly to others. BMW hopes to connect the system to mobile phone networks as latency times improve and possibly even access data from traffic light systems. Sure, GM and Ford got there a bit earlier, but you can see BMW's implementation demonstrated after the break, and check out the via link for more videos of the world's most boring game of GTA.

Continue reading BMW presents car-to-x communication, wants vehicles to talk more (video)

BMW presents car-to-x communication, wants vehicles to talk more (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 24 Oct 2011 11:47:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BMWBMW car-to-xBmwCar-to-xcarcar-to-xcarsdrivingemergency vehicleEmergencyVehiclehazardhazard detectionhazard warningHazardDetectionHazardWarningroad safetyRoadSafetytrafficturningvehicle warning systemVehicleWarningSystemvideowarning systemWarningSystemwireless networkwireless networksWirelessNetworkWirelessNetworksMon, 24 Oct 2011 11:47:00 EST<![CDATA[EV manufacturers get harmonized, agree to build a universal charging system]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/14/ev-manufacturers-get-harmonized-agree-to-build-a-universal-char/http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/14/ev-manufacturers-get-harmonized-agree-to-build-a-universal-char/http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/14/ev-manufacturers-get-harmonized-agree-to-build-a-universal-char/#comments Fancy segregating EV charging stations by vehicle manufacturer? No? A slew of major automobile firms didn't like the idea much either, and have agreed on a combined charging system to use as an international standard. Audi, BMW, Daimler, Ford, General Motors, Porsche and Volkswagen now support a single-port fast charging system that integrates all charging configurations -- from spiffy quick charging setups, down to modest Level 1 rigs. The new system also crowns HomePlug Green PHY as the standard communication protocol, allowing charging stations to hook compatible EVs to Powerline Smart Grid applications. Where do all these fancy features leave you and your Leaf? Charged, of course -- the new "harmonized electric vehicle charging solution" promises to be backward compatible with current industry standard J1772 connectors. Hit the break for Ford's official press release.

Continue reading EV manufacturers get harmonized, agree to build a universal charging system

EV manufacturers get harmonized, agree to build a universal charging system originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 14 Oct 2011 06:19:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AudiBMWcarchargerchargingDaimlereco-friendlyelectricelectric carelectric vehicleelectric vehiclesElectricCarElectricVehicleElectricVehiclesevEV chargingEV charging stationsEvChargingEvChargingStationsFordFord Motor CoGeneral MotorsGeneralMotorsgmgreenHomePlug Green PHYHomeplugGreenPhyJ1772LeafNpowerplug inplug in vehiclesplug-inplug-in hybridPlug-inHybridPlugInPlugInVehiclesPorscheprotocolstandardVolkswagenFri, 14 Oct 2011 06:19:00 EST<![CDATA[LG seeks ban on South Korean BMW and Audi sales, sticks out its LED lit tongue at Osram]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/29/lg-seeks-ban-on-south-korean-bmw-and-audi-sales-sticks-out-its/http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/29/lg-seeks-ban-on-south-korean-bmw-and-audi-sales-sticks-out-its/http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/29/lg-seeks-ban-on-south-korean-bmw-and-audi-sales-sticks-out-its/#comments Wouldn't it be nice if we lived in a world where we all just got along, people worked for the thrill of it, and knowledge was free? Yeah, fat chance dreamers. 'Sue', our new millennium's most oft-used verb, is getting some heavy play at the hands of the tech industry. The latest court room combatants? Why, that'd be LG Group and Osram. You see, once upon a time LG was late to the LED patent game, and was content to fork over the cash to Osram for use of its tech. Skip to now, and the electronics giant's claiming it can get its lighting goods elsewhere, picking from a plethora of relevant IP-holding companies and combining that with its own patents. Despite having already countersued Osram in July to prevent the import of that company's allegedly infringing products into South Korea, LG's gathered its legal arsenal once again to block the sale of Audis and BMWs throughout the entire country -- cars that include Osram's LED tech. It's hard to imagine the courts would grant such a wide-sweeping ban on major auto players' bread-and-butter. And all grandstanding aside, it's more likely the two fisticuffing parties will come to some sort of revised financial agreement.

LG seeks ban on South Korean BMW and Audi sales, sticks out its LED lit tongue at Osram originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 29 Sep 2011 22:08:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AudibanBMWlawsuitlawsuitsLEDLED TechnologyLedTechnologyLGLG ElectronicsLgElectronicsOsrampatentpatent disputepatent disputesPatentDisputePatentDisputespatentsSouth KoreaSouthKoreaThu, 29 Sep 2011 22:08:00 EST<![CDATA[BMW's Active Sound Design is like putting your head under the hood of the new M5]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/26/bmws-active-sound-design-is-like-putting-your-head-under-the-ho/http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/26/bmws-active-sound-design-is-like-putting-your-head-under-the-ho/http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/26/bmws-active-sound-design-is-like-putting-your-head-under-the-ho/#comments We know EVs of the future will lose their ability to silently kill, but how about replicating engine noise for the enjoyment of bonafide petrolheads? Eagle-eyed readers will note that's a promised feature of the upcoming (but ever-delayed) Fisker Karma, but here beating it to market is BMW's upcoming M5 -- sort of. München's implementation coined "Active Sound Design," won't blast engine machinations on the outside, but instead internally overlays the harmonic soundtrack of the twin turbo V8 over internal speakers as you drive. That audial racket is based on throttle position, engine revs and speed, and gets even louder when the car is set in Sport or Sport+ modes. No word on if you'll be able to customize with other soundtracks (a la Karma), but there's nothing a little enthusiast hackery can't fix...

BMW's Active Sound Design is like putting your head under the hood of the new M5 originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 26 Sep 2011 06:19:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>active sound designActiveSoundDesignblissbmwbmw active sound designbmw m5BmwActiveSoundDesignBmwM5engineengine noiseEngineNoisespeakersv8Mon, 26 Sep 2011 06:19:00 EST<![CDATA[BMW i3 electric and i8 plug-in cars on display at Frankfurt]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/13/bmw-i3-electric-and-i8-plug-in-cars-on-display-at-frankfurt/http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/13/bmw-i3-electric-and-i8-plug-in-cars-on-display-at-frankfurt/http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/13/bmw-i3-electric-and-i8-plug-in-cars-on-display-at-frankfurt/#comments We've seen 'em as sketches and we've seen 'em having fun on the snow, but now, after getting a few upgrades, they're parked on the stage at Frankfurt. BMW rolled out its new i3 and i8 electric cars, part of a new sub-brand focused on efficiency and responsive driving -- though it'll ultimately be up to the driver to determine just how responsively these behave on the road.

The i3 is a pure electric, 150km range (about 100 miles) and a very lightweight construction of both aluminum and carbon fiber. The i8, meanwhile, is a plug-in hybrid that is said to deliver about 87MPG and yet still get from 0 - 60MPH in under five seconds. Spunky, then. It also sports those funky laser headlights that are both far more efficient and far more awesome sounding than current LED models. This is what they look like in the flesh, and if all goes according to plan you'll be seeing them for yourselves when they enter production in 2013.

Gallery: BMW i3 and i8


Gallery: BMW i Family

BMW i3 electric and i8 plug-in cars on display at Frankfurt originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 13 Sep 2011 09:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bmwbmw iBmwIelectricfrankfurtfrankfurt motor showfrankfurt motor show 2011FrankfurtMotorShowFrankfurtMotorShow2011ii3i8phevplug-inplug-in hybridPlug-inHybridTue, 13 Sep 2011 09:45:00 EST<![CDATA[BMW unveils concept Husqvarna Concept E-go electric motorcycle]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/13/bmw-unveils-concept-husqvarna-electric-motorcycle-concept/http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/13/bmw-unveils-concept-husqvarna-electric-motorcycle-concept/http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/13/bmw-unveils-concept-husqvarna-electric-motorcycle-concept/#comments BMW unveils concept Husqvarna electric motorcycle There just aren't enough electric motorcycles in the world at this point, so thank goodness BMW just introduced a new one into the world. It's a slinky thing, with a single front fork and a spindly rear swingarm, two features that don't make it look particularly trail-ready -- despite the Husqvarna branding. (BMW bought Husqvarna back in 2007.) But, it does look a little more off-roadable than the electric scooter concept BMW also unveiled. No further details about range, speed, or indeed likelihood of production are available for either, but there are more pics of both in the gallery below.

Update: We got some further details on the bike. It weighs just 80kg (about 150lbs) and riding it through traffic is said to be like playing a videogame. The press release after the break doesn't say which videogame, but we're hoping it isn't Frogger.

Gallery: BMW concept motorcycles


Gallery: Husqvarna Concept E-go press shots

Continue reading BMW unveils concept Husqvarna Concept E-go electric motorcycle

BMW unveils concept Husqvarna Concept E-go electric motorcycle originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 13 Sep 2011 03:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bmwelectric motorcycleElectricMotorcyclefrankfurtfrankfurt 2011frankfurt motor showfrankfurt motor show 2011Frankfurt2011FrankfurtMotorShowFrankfurtMotorShow2011husqvarnamotorcycleTue, 13 Sep 2011 03:20:00 EST<![CDATA[BMW developing laser headlights, officially over LEDs]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/06/bmw-developing-laser-headlights-officially-over-leds/http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/06/bmw-developing-laser-headlights-officially-over-leds/http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/06/bmw-developing-laser-headlights-officially-over-leds/#comments We know, our whip doesn't have LED headlights either, but that's not stopping BMW from pressing on with its laser powered successor. Purportedly ready "within a few years," the updated beams boast an intensity a thousand times greater than their forebearers, all while consuming less than half the power -- helping EV drivers eke out a little more range. With each laser diode one hundred times smaller than its LED counterpart, Bavaria reckons the tech will help it design and package future light fixtures that are more bodacious than those from its competition in Ingolstadt. There's no firm date for availability, but the company says the new lighting tech will debut on the production version of its i8 concept. Sounds great, so where do we sign up for our frickin' laser bimmer?

Continue reading BMW developing laser headlights, officially over LEDs

BMW developing laser headlights, officially over LEDs originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 06 Sep 2011 07:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>autoautomobileautomobilesautomotiveautosbmwbmw i8bmw project iBmwI8BmwProjectIcarcarsheadlightslaserlaser diodelaser headlightLaserDiodeLaserHeadlightlasersLEDLED headlightsLedHeadlightslightingTue, 06 Sep 2011 07:32:00 EST<![CDATA[Fisker inks BMW deal, Nina EVs gain Ultimate Driving Machine DNA]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/02/fisker-inks-bmw-deal-nina-evs-gain-ultimate-driving-machine-dna/http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/02/fisker-inks-bmw-deal-nina-evs-gain-ultimate-driving-machine-dna/http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/02/fisker-inks-bmw-deal-nina-evs-gain-ultimate-driving-machine-dna/#comments Fisker Nina -- sounds more like a Bolshoi ballerina to us, but these codenamed, future EVs are now on course for a German heart and soul infusion. BMW has recently inked a deal that will see its four-cylinder turbocharged engine and additional components included in 2012 production models of the American auto maker's mid-sized sedans. The line of electric cars are currently slated for an early 2013 debut, but we'd sprinkle a cup of salt on that date considering the Karma's long road to launch. Skip on past the break for the company's official eco-meets-luxury handshake announcement.

Continue reading Fisker inks BMW deal, Nina EVs gain Ultimate Driving Machine DNA

Fisker inks BMW deal, Nina EVs gain Ultimate Driving Machine DNA originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 02 Sep 2011 11:43:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BMWdealecoElectric carelectric carselectric vehicleelectric vehiclesElectricCarElectricCarsElectricVehicleElectricVehiclesengineEngineSwapEVFiskerFisker AutomotiveFisker NinaFiskerAutomotiveFiskerNinaluxuryminipostNinaFri, 02 Sep 2011 11:43:00 EST<![CDATA[BMW's Ultimate Drive app lets you share your favorite routes, crowdsources day tripping]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/11/bmws-ultimate-drive-app-lets-you-share-your-favorite-routes-cr/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/11/bmws-ultimate-drive-app-lets-you-share-your-favorite-routes-cr/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/11/bmws-ultimate-drive-app-lets-you-share-your-favorite-routes-cr/#comments
Are you driving to get somewhere, or are you driving to drive? That's the fundamental question behind BMW's Ultimate Drive -- a new app that allows iPhone and Android users to share and rate their most enjoyable routes. With this arrow in your smartphone's quiver, you can create and upload your favorite paths using Google Maps, while evaluating other user submissions based on traffic, scenery and that ever-elusive thrill factor. As CNET points out, the app won't let you upload maps from your computer, nor does it allow for Yelp-style ratings of locations along the way, though those features may only be an update away. Check out the source links to download the free app and enjoy the journey. Full PR after the break.

Continue reading BMW's Ultimate Drive app lets you share your favorite routes, crowdsources day tripping

BMW's Ultimate Drive app lets you share your favorite routes, crowdsources day tripping originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 11 Aug 2011 15:51:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidappbeamerbimmerbmwbmw appsbmw ultimate drivebmw ultimate drive appBmwAppsBmwUltimateDriveBmwUltimateDriveAppcarcrowdsourcedrivinggoogle mapsGoogleMapsiphonejourneynavigationratingroutescenerysharesharingsmartphoneThu, 11 Aug 2011 15:51:00 EST<![CDATA[Inhabitat's Week in Green: photovoltaic trees, a mind-reading Prius bike and solar-powered garb]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/31/inhabitats-week-in-green-photovoltaic-trees-a-mind-reading-pr/http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/31/inhabitats-week-in-green-photovoltaic-trees-a-mind-reading-pr/http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/31/inhabitats-week-in-green-photovoltaic-trees-a-mind-reading-pr/#comments The summer sun shined a light on several breakthrough solar technologies this week at Inhabitat as Semprius unveiled a powerful micro photovoltaic cell that can fit on a pinhead, and MIT developed a solar power system that can produce energy without sunlight. We also spotted plans for a shape-shifting solar home with a perforated facade, a series of luminous photovoltaic trees that grow real plants, and Nuon unveiled its super aerodynamic Nuna6 solar-powered racer.

Speaking of green transportation, this week President Obama set a goal of 54.5 MPG for all US automakers, BMW unveiled its breakthrough i3 and i8 electric vehicles, and Toyota unveiled a mind-reading Prius bike that can shift gears with just a thought. We also showcased several incredible examples of vehicular architecture - including a prefab house made from recycled Hummers and a shipping container pool set on a barge that purifies water as it floats through france.

As temperatures continued to soar this week we brought you seven solar-powered wearables guaranteed to give you a charge, and we saw Japanese citizens turn to air-conditioned clothing to beat the heat during power shortages. We were also relieved to hear a Swiss study announce that cell phone use is not linked to brain tumors in kids, and we showed you the dizzying view from the world's tallest tennis court, which is set atop the Burj al Arab in Dubai.

Inhabitat's Week in Green: photovoltaic trees, a mind-reading Prius bike and solar-powered garb originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 31 Jul 2011 19:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bmweco-friendlygreenhummerinhabitatinhabitats week in greenInhabitatsWeekInGreensolarsolar powersolar poweredSolarPowerSolarPoweredSun, 31 Jul 2011 19:32:00 EST<![CDATA[BMW unveils new i3 and revamped i8 concepts, we await our automotive future (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/30/bmw-unveils-new-i3-and-revamped-i8-concepts-we-await-our-automo/http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/30/bmw-unveils-new-i3-and-revamped-i8-concepts-we-await-our-automo/http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/30/bmw-unveils-new-i3-and-revamped-i8-concepts-we-await-our-automo/#comments BMW's been teasing us with its vision for electric motoroing for years, and today, folks, the trend continues. The German automaker has unveiled two concepts from its upcoming i sub-brand: the city-dwelling i3 and a rehashed version of its i8. This is the first time we've officially seen the smaller of the two, as the car formerly known as the Megacity had only been spied in an official render and during routine testing at the arctic circle. It'll haul four peeps with its 150km range (around 100 miles) and accelerate from 0-60mph in around 8 seconds. As for those with range anxiety, the German company will soothe such fears with an optional range-extending motor dubbed "REx." Either variant could land in your garage in 2013, where you'll be able top them up in 6 hours with a standard socket, or up to eighty percent in an hour if you're rocking a spiffy high capacity charger.

The i8, which you'll recall for its radical aerodynamic design and hybrid diesel-electric drivetrain, has received a bevy of aerodynamic tweaks and junked its oil burner, opting for a gasoline one instead. Engine swap aside, the sporty coupé apparently drinks only 2.7 liters per 100km -- 87 mpg (!) for yanks -- which is unreal in a car that'll accelerate to 62mph in 4.6 seconds. Sound too good to be true? We'll have to wait until 2014 to see if München can make good on those promises, but in the meantime feel free to peruse the galleries, videos, and PR after the break.

Gallery: BMW i Family

Continue reading BMW unveils new i3 and revamped i8 concepts, we await our automotive future (video)

BMW unveils new i3 and revamped i8 concepts, we await our automotive future (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 30 Jul 2011 14:42:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>automobilebmwbmw i3bmw i8bmw project iBmwI3BmwI8BmwProjectIcarcarsconcept carConceptCarelectric automobileelectric vehicleelectric vehiclesElectricAutomobileElectricVehicleElectricVehiclesevhybridi3i8IAA FrankfurtIaaFrankfurtproject iProjectIrange extenderRangeExtendervehiclesvideoSat, 30 Jul 2011 14:42:00 EST<![CDATA[142 electric vehicle charging stations head to Massachusetts, Nantucket and MV not included]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/24/142-electric-vehicle-charging-stations-head-to-massachusetts-na/http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/24/142-electric-vehicle-charging-stations-head-to-massachusetts-na/http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/24/142-electric-vehicle-charging-stations-head-to-massachusetts-na/#commentsThings are lookin' up in New England -- particularly for those who crisscross Yawkey Way with an electric vehicle. A grand total of 142 EV charging stations are slated to hit The Bay State in the coming months, with 25 communities across the commonwealth to get gifted. Boston reports that the majority of 'em will be in "common commuter or traveler spots," places like downtown parking garages, MBTA lots, shopping malls, etc. The bulk of the boxes will be part of the ChargePoint network, and we're told that the rates for recharging will be set by "municipalities on public land and by property owners on private land," depending on where each box is planted. So, is the charging station rollout between NY and MA the new Yankees vs. Red Sox? Nah, but a techie can dream.

142 electric vehicle charging stations head to Massachusetts, Nantucket and MV not included originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 24 Jul 2011 10:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BMWbostonchargepointChargePoint AmericaChargepointAmericacharging stationChargingStationCoulomb TechnologiesCoulombTechnologiesdepartment of energyDepartmentOfEnergyelectric vehicleElectricVehicleevmassachusettssolarsolar powersolar poweredsolar-poweredSolarPowerSolarPoweredSun, 24 Jul 2011 10:28:00 EST<![CDATA[BMW, Porsche, others announce support for HomePlug's EV networking spec]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/01/bmw-porsche-others-announce-support-for-homeplugs-ev-networki/http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/01/bmw-porsche-others-announce-support-for-homeplugs-ev-networki/http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/01/bmw-porsche-others-announce-support-for-homeplugs-ev-networki/#comments The HomePlug Powerline Alliance already wants to tether your entire household to the Internet, and it may soon extend its reach to your garage, as well. At Computex today, the company announced that Audi, BMW, Daimler, Porsche and Volkswagen have all agreed to support its HomePlug Green PHY (GP) technology as their EV charging interface of choice. The networking specification would allow electric car owners to link their plug-ins to the Smart Grid via the same ports used to charge their batteries, opening up new, Powerline-based possibilities. Once your EV hooks up to the network, it may be able to conduct system checks in real-time, for instance, or provide instant feedback on performance or the condition of your battery. The low power GP spec will also be interoperable with HomePlug's forthcoming AV2 spec, though it's still not clear when we can expect to see Germany's automakers incorporate it into production. Zip past the break for the full PR.

Continue reading BMW, Porsche, others announce support for HomePlug's EV networking spec

BMW, Porsche, others announce support for HomePlug's EV networking spec originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 01 Jun 2011 14:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>audibmwcarchargerchargingcharging portcharging stationChargingPortChargingStationcomputexcomputex 2011Computex2011daimlerelectric vehicleElectricVehicleEVgermanygreengridhomeplughomeplug greenhomeplug green phyhomeplug powerlinehomeplug powerline allianceHomeplugGreenHomeplugGreenPhyHomeplugPowerlineHomeplugPowerlineAlliancehybridhybrid carsHybridCarsintegrationinterfacenetworkporschesmart gridSmartGridspecspecificationtransportvehiclevolkswagenWed, 01 Jun 2011 14:50:00 EST<![CDATA[BMW left turn assistant uses lasers to help you avoid running people over]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/16/bmw-left-turn-assistant-uses-lasers-to-help-you-avoid-running-pe/http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/16/bmw-left-turn-assistant-uses-lasers-to-help-you-avoid-running-pe/http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/16/bmw-left-turn-assistant-uses-lasers-to-help-you-avoid-running-pe/#comments
BMW continues to fight the good fight: making sure you hit fewer people with its luxury vehicles. The German automaker is developing a vehicle warning system aimed at curbing collisions caused by drivers making left turns -- a leading cause of accidents and motorcycle fatalities. The system, which can be enabled for vehicles making left or U-turns while traveling under 10mph, detects movements using the vehicle's navigation system and a single camera. Once a left turn is recognized, three lasers are used to scan for hazards up to 328-feet away -- if one is detected, the car will automatically brake and throw up corresponding alerts for the driver. The company is set to show off the system as part of INTERSAFE 2, this week in Wolfsburg, Germany. In the meantime, the rest of us will have to rely on things like mirrors and looking over our shoulders.

BMW left turn assistant uses lasers to help you avoid running people over originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 16 May 2011 21:22:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BMWbrakebrakingbraking systemBrakingSystemcar safetyCarSafetyDrivingGermanGermanyGPSINTERSAFEintersafe 2Intersafe2laserturningvehicle warning systemVehicleWarningSystemwarning systemWarningSystemwolfsburgMon, 16 May 2011 21:22:00 EST<![CDATA[Mini Cooper Connected app adjusts music based on driving style, stops when airbags deploy]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/28/mini-cooper-connected-app-adjusts-music-based-on-driving-style/http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/28/mini-cooper-connected-app-adjusts-music-based-on-driving-style/http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/28/mini-cooper-connected-app-adjusts-music-based-on-driving-style/#comments We're always looking for excuses to get behind the wheel, so naturally the new Dynamic Music function in the Mini Connected app made us yearn for a chance to hit the road. Version 2.0 brings this headline feature to the iPhone, which includes exclusively-composed music that adjusts based on things like a compatible Mini Cooper's "longitudinal and lateral acceleration." In other words, the faster and crazier you drive, the more exciting the music becomes. So instead of having mom in the passenger seat begging you to slow down, there's music that encourages you to do the opposite. The press release even references a "hallmark Mini go-kart feeling," so you might want to make sure everyone's buckled up before you plug in. Should anyone fail to do so, a new feature called Mission Control will let you know, also nagging about poor driving conditions. How's that for a mixed signal?

Continue reading Mini Cooper Connected app adjusts music based on driving style, stops when airbags deploy

Mini Cooper Connected app adjusts music based on driving style, stops when airbags deploy originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 28 Apr 2011 09:53:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>applicationbmwbmw mini cooperBmwMiniCooperdynamic musicDynamicMusiciphoneiphone appiphone applicationIphoneAppIphoneApplicationminimini appmini connected appmini coopermini cooper connectedMiniAppMiniConnectedAppMiniCooperMiniCooperConnectedmission controlMissionControlThu, 28 Apr 2011 09:53:00 EST<![CDATA[CE-Oh no he didn't!: BMW exec says electric vehicles 'won't work,' but would love to sell you one anyway]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/26/ce-oh-no-he-didnt-bmw-exec-says-electric-vehicles-wont-work/http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/26/ce-oh-no-he-didnt-bmw-exec-says-electric-vehicles-wont-work/http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/26/ce-oh-no-he-didnt-bmw-exec-says-electric-vehicles-wont-work/#comments Jim O'Donnell, CEO and chairman of BMW North America, recently sat down with the Detroit News to discuss the ActiveE -- an electric version of BMW's 1 Series coupe, available for lease in the US this fall. Most CEOs would've probably used the opportunity to wax PR poetic about their company's bold, forward-looking ethos, because that's what CEOs do. O'Donnell, however, used the occasion to let us in on a dirty little secret: EVs don't actually work. According to O'Donnell's undoubtedly robust calculations, EVs won't work for "at least 90-percent" of the human population, at current battery ranges. The situation is so dire, in fact, that the US government shouldn't even bother wasting its $7,500 tax credits on frivolous things like innovation, national security and clean air.
"I believe in a free economy. I think we should abolish all tax credits. What they are doing is putting a bet on technology, which is not appropriate. As a taxpayer, I am not sure this is the right way to go."
O'Donnell went on to say he's "far more optimistic" about diesel's chances of increasing BMW's US market share -- because, you know, it's not like the oil industry gets any tax breaks, or anything. And it's not like diverting some money away from oil subsidies and putting it toward EV technology would create the "level playing field" that O'Donnell and his company so desperately need. No siree, the US energy market is just as pure and fair as it's always been -- and it certainly doesn't deserve to be corrupted by an EV tax credit pestilence. That said, O'Donnell would still really appreciate it if we buy the battery-powered i3 when it launches in 2013. Who knows? He may even throw in a free bridge, too.

CE-Oh no he didn't!: BMW exec says electric vehicles 'won't work,' but would love to sell you one anyway originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 26 Apr 2011 08:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activeeActiveE ConceptActiveeConceptautobatterybig oilBigOilbmwBMW 1 Seriesbmw ceobmw north americaBmw1SeriesBmwCeoBmwNorthAmericacarceoCeOhNoCeOhNoHeDidntDetroitdieselElectric carelectric vehicleElectricCarElectricVehicleenvironmentenvironmentalEVgreeni3jim odonnellJimOdonnellleaseoilpoliticssubsidiesTax CreditTaxCredittaxesTue, 26 Apr 2011 08:27:00 EST<![CDATA[BMW and Siemens partnering for wireless-charging EVs, cutting the cord this May]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/14/bmw-and-siemens-partnering-for-wireless-charging-evs-cutting-th/http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/14/bmw-and-siemens-partnering-for-wireless-charging-evs-cutting-th/http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/14/bmw-and-siemens-partnering-for-wireless-charging-evs-cutting-th/#commentsBMW and Siemens partnering for inductive charging EV trial, cutting the cord this may Back at CES we were dazzled by Fulton Innovation's vision of the future of wireless power, which included an inductively-charged Tesla Roadster. Now, someone's actually making it a reality. Siemens and BMW are partnering on a field trial for inductive chargers, with the device itself making its debut in May ahead of it being deployed in Berlin in June. In theory these can be installed into parking lots, taxi queues, and of course driveways, sunk right into the ground -- out of sight and mind. Neither company is saying which prototype car will be given the ability to catch the waves that these inductive chargesters will be throwing out, but we'd hazard a guess it'll be one of BMW's new i cars, which won't look nearly as futuristic as the invisible wheels above that look to have escaped from the Wonder Woman set.

[Thanks, Jason]

Continue reading BMW and Siemens partnering for wireless-charging EVs, cutting the cord this May

BMW and Siemens partnering for wireless-charging EVs, cutting the cord this May originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 14 Apr 2011 16:53:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>berlinbmwgermanyiinductiveinductive chargingInductiveChargingsiemeswirelesswireless chargingWirelessChargingThu, 14 Apr 2011 16:53:00 EST<![CDATA[BMW launches DriveNow, the 'premium' car sharing service with a Dell Streak on every dash (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/03/23/bmw-launches-drivenow-the-premium-car-sharing-service-with-a/http://www.engadget.com/2011/03/23/bmw-launches-drivenow-the-premium-car-sharing-service-with-a/http://www.engadget.com/2011/03/23/bmw-launches-drivenow-the-premium-car-sharing-service-with-a/#commentsBMW launches DriveNow, the 'premium' car sharing service with a Dell Streak on every dash (video) If you liked the idea of the Car2go service we profiled a few weeks back, Smart fortwos available for rent by the minute with and some pretty fancy tracking apps to help you find them, but maybe you wanted to drive something a little bit bigger, BMW has you covered. Well, assuming "you" are German or at least living in Germany. The company has launched its own car sharing service it calls DriveNow. This one is billed as a "premium" -- though curiously none of the company's truly premium models will be offered. That said, the Minis and 1 Series autos that make up the initial fleet are hardly low-rent, and we'd be utterly shocked if the upcoming i3 didn't get added to the mix down the road too.

Usage details are still a little bit scarce, but we do know that each car will have a dash-mounted Dell Streak through which users will log in after unlocking the car doors with an RFID-equipped membership card or even a suitably endowed drivers license. Renting a car costs 29 cents per minute, up to €14.90 (about $21) per hour, and there will be 300 cars available at first starting in the Munich area. If you're not in Munich it's tough cookies for now, but BMW is hoping to have one million members worldwide by 2020. Maybe one of them will be you.

Continue reading BMW launches DriveNow, the 'premium' car sharing service with a Dell Streak on every dash (video)

BMW launches DriveNow, the 'premium' car sharing service with a Dell Streak on every dash (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 23 Mar 2011 13:42:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1 series1Seriesbmwcar sharingCarSharingdelldell streakDellStreakdrivenowgermanyi3minisixtstreakvideoWed, 23 Mar 2011 13:42:00 EST<![CDATA[Mini E field trial ends, for the 40 testers a search for a new car begins]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/03/20/mini-e-field-trial-ends-for-the-40-testers-a-search-for-a-new-c/http://www.engadget.com/2011/03/20/mini-e-field-trial-ends-for-the-40-testers-a-search-for-a-new-c/http://www.engadget.com/2011/03/20/mini-e-field-trial-ends-for-the-40-testers-a-search-for-a-new-c/#comments Mini E field trial ends, for the 40 testers a search for a new car begins People who love a given car tend to keep that car for awhile, longer than they should sometimes, but that isn't always an option. Sometimes you have to give it back, and such is the case for the 40 "pioneers" who were among the first to get their mitts on and bums in the electric prototype Mini E in the UK. That fleet of test vehicles has been summoned back home, but thankfully not to suffer the same fate of the recalled GM EV1 -- most of which were crushed in the '90s. Instead, most of these Minis will find new homes among corporate vehicle fleets, though the testing program itself is largely over. From that program BMW learned that most drivers got along just fine, despite a complete lack of public charging stations, though some said cold temps put a crimp on the driving habits -- a possible counterpoint to one EV Mini tester on this side of the pond found. All that data is being used to tailor the upcoming BMW i3, which we've already seen hooning around in some rather frigid weather but won't be seen hooning on public streets until 2013 or so.

Mini E field trial ends, for the 40 testers a search for a new car begins originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 20 Mar 2011 12:36:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bmwbmw groupbmw project iBmwGroupBmwProjectIelectric carelectric vehicleElectricCarElectricVehicleevi3megacityminimini 3MINI EMini3MiniEproject iProjectItestukSun, 20 Mar 2011 12:36:00 EST<![CDATA[BMW's all-electric i3 city car gets captured on video]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/03/17/bmws-all-electric-i3-city-car-gets-captured-on-video/http://www.engadget.com/2011/03/17/bmws-all-electric-i3-city-car-gets-captured-on-video/http://www.engadget.com/2011/03/17/bmws-all-electric-i3-city-car-gets-captured-on-video/#comments
Been wondering when BMW's all-electric i3 city car would turn up on video ever since its bigger, sportier counterpart did its thing last week? Well, here's your answer. The folks from GMotors recently managed to catch the pint-sized car doing a bit of drifting at the same cold weather test location in Sweden that the i8 was spotted at, and it certainly looks like the 150 horsepower vehicle could be a fun little car to drive. Unfortunately, it doesn't look like you'll be able to take one for a spin yourself anytime soon, as it's not expected to go on sale until 2013 (at a cost of around $40,000). Head on past the break for the video.

Continue reading BMW's all-electric i3 city car gets captured on video

BMW's all-electric i3 city car gets captured on video originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 17 Mar 2011 11:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>all-electricbmwbmw i3bmw project iBmwI3BmwProjectIcity carCityCarelectric carelectric vehicleElectricCarElectricVehiclei3project iProjectIvideoThu, 17 Mar 2011 11:57:00 EST<![CDATA[BMW promises 5 Series 'New Energy Vehicle' for China]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/03/16/bmw-promises-5-series-new-energy-vehicle-for-china/http://www.engadget.com/2011/03/16/bmw-promises-5-series-new-energy-vehicle-for-china/http://www.engadget.com/2011/03/16/bmw-promises-5-series-new-energy-vehicle-for-china/#comments There's an unfortunate lack of details on this one at the moment, but it looks like BMW has something a little special in store for China at the Shanghai Motor Show next month. It will be showing off its new 5 Series "New Energy Vehicle," a plug-in hybrid that, as previously suggested, will be exclusive to the Chinese market. That will presumably be somewhat similar to the company's ActiveHybrid 5 concept pictured above, which it first showed off last year but still hasn't put into production. As Motor Authority notes, however, the New York Auto Show actually coincides with the Shanghai show, so there's a chance that BMW could be set to provide an update on the ActiveHybrid 5, or possibly introduce a North American counterpart to the New Energy Vehicle.

BMW promises 5 Series 'New Energy Vehicle' for China originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 16 Mar 2011 19:34:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>5 series5Seriesactivehybrid 5Activehybrid5bmwhybridnew energy vehicleNewEnergyVehiclephevplug-inplug-in hybridPlug-inHybridshanghai motor showShanghaiMotorShowWed, 16 Mar 2011 19:34:00 EST<![CDATA[Chris Bangle, former BMW designer, bringing his deconstructivist ways to Samsung devices?]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/03/12/chris-bangle-former-bmw-designer-bringing-his-deconstructivist/http://www.engadget.com/2011/03/12/chris-bangle-former-bmw-designer-bringing-his-deconstructivist/http://www.engadget.com/2011/03/12/chris-bangle-former-bmw-designer-bringing-his-deconstructivist/#commentsFormer BMW designer Chris Bangle headed to Samsung, bringing deconstructivist ways to mobile devices That's the E65 7 Series up there, considered by many to be as ugly a car as they come. It's the product of one Chris Bangle, Chief Designer at BMW for most of the '90s and '00s, who strove to give cars a futuristic, deconstructivist design that didn't always find favor among car buyers who were still stuck in an orderly present. Now we actually are in the future and, well, that rear-end still isn't looking any better, but Bangle did pave the way for more dramatic stylings in modern cars. He stepped away from the auto industry two years ago and now we're hearing that he's moving on to a gig at Samsung. Interestingly, Sammy and BMW have had something of a relationship over the years. We saw newer 7 Series sprout support for the T*Omnia in 2009, and back in 2005 Samsung's Chief Marketing Officer told Bloomberg that the company needed to "become like a BMW." According to Korean paper JoongAng Ilbo, Bangle will be working on cellphones and netbooks, which we expect to feature dramatic flame surfacing along with Dame Edna indicator lights and oddly bulging posteriors.

[Thanks, Tim]

Chris Bangle, former BMW designer, bringing his deconstructivist ways to Samsung devices? originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 12 Mar 2011 13:21:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bmwchris bangleChrisBangledesigndesignersamsungSat, 12 Mar 2011 13:21:00 EST<![CDATA[BMW i8 prototype caught on video having fun in the snow]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/03/11/bmw-i8-prototype-caught-on-video-having-fun-in-the-snow/http://www.engadget.com/2011/03/11/bmw-i8-prototype-caught-on-video-having-fun-in-the-snow/http://www.engadget.com/2011/03/11/bmw-i8-prototype-caught-on-video-having-fun-in-the-snow/#comments Grainy pictures are pretty neat, but spy videos of an unreleased car in motion are a little more titillating. That's what we have this morning, video of the BMW i8 concept car motoring around in the snow -- flanked by a series of rather more pedestrian Bavarian autos. The i8 is the auto formerly known as Vision EfficientDynamics, name shortened but concept kept the same: 62MPG from a vehicle that's still fun to drive and reasonably quick -- 0 to 62 in 4.8 seconds. The quality of the footage is perhaps a little low, but if anything that just adds to the excitement.

Continue reading BMW i8 prototype caught on video having fun in the snow

BMW i8 prototype caught on video having fun in the snow originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 11 Mar 2011 08:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bmwbmw i8bmw project iBmwI8BmwProjectIconcepthybridhybrid vehicleHybridVehiclei8phevproject iProjectIprototypespyspy shotspy videoSpyShotSpyVideotestingvideovision efficientdynamicsVisionEfficientdynamicswinter testingWinterTestingFri, 11 Mar 2011 08:33:00 EST<![CDATA[BMW's i3 and i8 prototypes caught on camera in garish attire]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/03/09/bmws-i3-and-i8-prototypes-caught-on-camera-in-garish-atire/http://www.engadget.com/2011/03/09/bmws-i3-and-i8-prototypes-caught-on-camera-in-garish-atire/http://www.engadget.com/2011/03/09/bmws-i3-and-i8-prototypes-caught-on-camera-in-garish-atire/#comments BMW It was just a few weeks ago that BMW launched its new brand, simply called "i," and pledged two new electrified cars would be coming to save us from both the perils of pollution and the danger of boring commutes. Now here they are, spotted in the wild wearing the company's usual swirly vinyl, which is doing its best to hide those decidedly distinct curves -- and failing miserably, if we're honest. Both the i3 hatch (below) and i8 sportscar (above) were obviously doing some winter testing, and we'd say that the smile on the face of the passenger in the i8 is a good sign that the four-seater with 62MPG rating and a 0 - 62 time of 4.8 seconds will be fun to drive. Or fun to ride in, at least.

Continue reading BMW's i3 and i8 prototypes caught on camera in garish attire

BMW's i3 and i8 prototypes caught on camera in garish attire originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 09 Mar 2011 22:37:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blurrycambmwbmw i3bmw i8bmw project iBmwI3BmwI8BmwProjectIelectric vehicleElectricVehicleevii3i8project iProjectIprototypespyspy shotSpyShotturbodieselWed, 09 Mar 2011 22:37:00 EST<![CDATA[BMW Connected hitting 1 Series cars first, lets you tweet your disregard for speed limits]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/02/23/bmw-connected-hitting-1-series-cars-first-lets-you-tweet-your-d/http://www.engadget.com/2011/02/23/bmw-connected-hitting-1-series-cars-first-lets-you-tweet-your-d/http://www.engadget.com/2011/02/23/bmw-connected-hitting-1-series-cars-first-lets-you-tweet-your-d/#commentsBMW Connected hitting 1 Series cars first, will let you Tweet your disregard for speed limits The BMW Connected app has been available for a few months now, following in the footsteps of Mini Connected as it sits there, and taunting you from the App Store. We knew cars supporting the feature would be coming in March, and now we know which ones will be first: BMW's svelte little 1 Series. To enable the streaming radio and even streaming video (when the car is stationary) on the dash-mounted display you'll need to tick the box next to a €150 (about $205) option. In your suitably equipped car you can then get your Facebook and Twitter feeds read to you and even provide automated responses using "vehicle information such as current speed, outside temperature or navigation destination." We're hoping the car can apply some flowery language to such hard data, like "bat out of hell" for those particularly warm days in which you're driving at a high rate of speed from an unpleasant point of origin.

Continue reading BMW Connected hitting 1 Series cars first, lets you tweet your disregard for speed limits

BMW Connected hitting 1 Series cars first, lets you tweet your disregard for speed limits originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 23 Feb 2011 10:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1 series1Seriesbmwbmw connectedBmwConnectedconnectedfacebookinfotainmentinternet radioInternetRadiosmartphone integrationSmartphoneIntegrationtwitterWed, 23 Feb 2011 10:31:00 EST<![CDATA[BMW launches new 'i' brand focused on electrification, lower-case letters]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/02/21/bmw-launches-new-i-brand-focused-on-electrification-lower-cas/http://www.engadget.com/2011/02/21/bmw-launches-new-i-brand-focused-on-electrification-lower-cas/http://www.engadget.com/2011/02/21/bmw-launches-new-i-brand-focused-on-electrification-lower-cas/#comments BMW launches new 'i' brand focused on electrification, lower-case letters BMW already has one of the shortest names on the auto front, but it's about to get shorter. The company has just launched "i," a sub-marque much like the company's M cars but, rather than focusing on performance, highlighting new technology to create cars that are "good for us" while also being "good for our planet." It's what the company calls "premium mobility," cars for daily commuting that will let you "enjoy the finer things in life" without killing the planet in the process. The first two cars are the i3 (formerly known as the Megacity) and the i8 (the auto formerly known as Vision EfficientDynamics), both of which are said to be as fun to drive as a current car but much more efficient thanks to composite construction and electrified powertrains.

Additionally, the company is also working with the My City Way apps, which cover 40 cities in the US and that many abroad, offering traffic cameras, POIs, and even public transit info -- a little odd for a car company. The company is pledging that we'll see these "born electric" cars in production by 2013 and coyly specifies that three is not the smallest number nor eight the largest, meaning we should expect other models to fill that gap -- just like the company's current alphanumeric lineup. We'll surely be learning more about these cars at Geneva in a few weeks, and if you think BMW is just being trendy using the lower-case i moniker, it did launch its iDrive controller back in September of 2001 -- a month before the iPod really made "i" super trendy.

Gallery: BMW's i brand

BMW launches new 'i' brand focused on electrification, lower-case letters originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 21 Feb 2011 09:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bmwbmw i3bmw i8bmw project iBmwI3BmwI8BmwProjectIbreaking newselectric vehicleElectricVehicleevfeaturefeaturedfeaturesgenevageneva 2011Geneva2011ii3i8megacityproject iProjectIvision efficientdynamicsVisionEfficientdynamicsMon, 21 Feb 2011 09:31:00 EST