Austrian parts supplier Magna has developed a concept that gives clues about BMW’s new Project i electric car programme.
Read more about BMW’s Project i and other green technologies
The lightweight three-door hatchback MILA EV features a removable power module that includes batteries and electric drive motors.
It also incorporates solar cells integrated in the glass roof to provide additional energy generation.
With the high cost of the batteries and electric motor likely to equal or outstrip that of the car carrying it, the MILA’s EV module could become the item that the car buyer owns in future, rather than the bodywork.
Other electric car projects are looking at the battery pack as being an item that the user leases rather than owns.
Magna is working with BMW to explore electric car technology, and hopes other manufacturers will buy its electric platform as an off-the-shelf base for their own vehicles.
Geneva cars: news and images
Chery DR, Ferrari 599XX, Ford Iosis Max, Frazer Nash Namir, Hyundai ix-onic, Infiniti Essence, Kia No3, Lagonda Concept, Lamborghini Murcielago SV, Land Rover Freelander TD4_e, Mazda CX-7, Mini JCW Cabriolet, Mitsubishi iMIEV Sport Air, Nissan Qazana, Renault Megane RS, RUF Greenster, Skoda Fabia vRS, Skoda Yeti, Tata Nano Europa, Toyota Prius, Volkswagen Polo
Autocar.tv: see Mike Duff's in-depth Geneva show coverage
Lagonda Concept, Skoda Yeti, Rolls Royce 200 EX, Vauxhall Ampera, Nissan Qazana, Infiniti Essence, Bentley Continental Supersports, Ford Iosis Max
Video blogs from the show floor
Audi TT RS, Ferrari 599XX, Hyundai ix-onic concept, Kia No3, Lamborghini Murcielago SV, Mercedes E-class coupe, Peugeot 3008, Renaultsport Megane, Subaru Legacy, VW Polo
Add your comment