Will we see a hybrid E9x M3?

I was reading this article about the future of the M division and using a hybrid drive system from F1 (starting next year F1 has some hybrid system, which I think might ruin next year, but that is another issue).

We’ve previously heard that that BMW’s M division is considering V6 turbocharged engines for future M models to cut CO2 emissions. Well, now BMW M GmbH is reportedly considering hybrid-drive in the long-term. Currently, output of conventional combination of a gasoline-engine and electric motor is still too low for the high-performance division to put into production models.

According to BMW M GmbH head of development Albert Biermann, BMW is looking to transfer over the technology it will start using in its Formula 1 cars in the 2009 season called KERS. KERS, which stands for Kinetic Energy Recovery System, has a hybrid module consisting of an electric motor, generator and a battery.

The hybrid module is said to be five times smaller and about five times more powerful than in a conventional hybrid. At low speeds, the energy is recovered and saved to the electric-motor and then used later for additional power.

There is no word when BMW will use the technology in production M models.

Does anyone think this technology will make it into the current chassis, or do you think they'll wait for the next M3?

Tim

I think the industry is on a track to get the majority of vehicles out as hybrids by 2011.

I also think we'll see other models get a hybrid engine choice earlier.

Originally Posted by tim330i

I was reading this article about the future of the M division and using a hybrid drive system from F1 (starting next year F1 has some hybrid system, which I think might ruin next year, but that is another issue).



Does anyone think this technology will make it into the current chassis, or do you think they'll wait for the next M3?

Tim

i'd be surpised if we saw it in this chassis. I'd love to see an x-drive variant make it to M cars though!

There have been V6 rumors for years, but BMW has adamantly stated that they will not abandon I-6 engines/technology.

As for the KERS, They estimate that it will increase HP and speed while reducing weight. The engine will always be on, just being assisted by a hybrid motor. It could be cool, as long as the M keeps its growl. We should be welcoming all available F1 technology.

Based on what I heard from the announcers talking during the Hungarian GP the KERS technology isn't going well at all for F1 teams. Red Bull had to evacuate their head quarters when a battery went thermal. BMW had a mechanic shocked, knocked a few feet from the car and spent the night in the hospital. All the types of things that don't sound good for racing next year, especially when it is optional for 09 racing.

Tim

Originally Posted by tim330i

Based on what I heard from the announcers talking during the Hungarian GP the KERS technology isn't going well at all for F1 teams. Red Bull had to evacuate their head quarters when a battery went thermal. BMW had a mechanic shocked, knocked a few feet from the car and spent the night in the hospital. All the types of things that don't sound good for racing next year, especially when it is optional for 09 racing.

Tim

I would certainly agree that it's WAAYYYY too early for this technology. I wouldn't be surprised if some teams abandon it in lieu of more development time. The problem is that they're on a crunch to get their engines ready to go for approval prior to the FIA deadline. I think that's going to be problematic for them. It seems like they're rushing it.