HARTFORD, Conn., May 9, 2011 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) — Hartford BMW dealers like New Country BMW are witnessing a green revolution as BMW rolls out its new ActiveE electric car, the automaker’s first consumer electric car for the U.S. market.
Based on the popular BMW 1 Series coupe, the ActiveE drops the 230-horsepower inline 6-cylinder engine in favor of a 170-horsepower electric motor with a liquid-cooled lithium-ion battery. BMW is promising 0 to 60 mph acceleration times around 9 seconds and around 184 pound-feet of torque. Specific figures on horsepower and torque could change before the ActiveE reaches Connecticut BMW dealer showrooms this fall.
“The BMW ActiveE is an exciting take on the electric car,” said Tim Parker, general manager of Hartford BMW dealer New Country BMW. “BMW’s engineers focused on what makes driving a BMW such a pleasure, and this eco-friendly vehicle will still provide BMW levels of performance and style. The ActiveE is proof that an electric car can still be dynamic and exciting to drive.”
To ensure that the ActiveE will maintain BMW’s reputation for excellent handling and comfort, engineers placed the electric motor directly between the rear wheels. This design eliminates the need for a clutch or transmission, simplifying the drivetrain and reducing weight. There is no clutch pedal and no gears to change because the electric motor only has one gear.
Designed to be a commuter vehicle with a range of approximately 100 miles, depending on use and driving conditions, the ActiveE provides low-end torque that enhances maneuverability and response at the slower speeds that most commuters cope with each day.
Connecticut BMW dealers will begin accepting reservations for the ActiveE later this summer. BMW plans to deliver 700 of the vehicles to the United States by year’s end, and the first batch will only be available through a 24-month lease.
To promote the upcoming launch of the ActiveE electric vehicle, BMW has released a four-part documentary series online, entitled “Wherever You Want to Go.” Rather than sell viewers on the innovative features of the new model, the documentary features some of today’s most-influential automotive and tech visionaries and solicits their opinions on the future of mobility in the United States.
As part of BMW’s Activate the Future campaign, the thought-provoking film series intends to open up a public discussion that encourages new thinking to meet the transportation challenges of the 21st century.
“Rising fuel costs are forcing car buyers to reconsider their driving habits,” Parker said. “At the same time, social and environmental concerns have created a need for alternative vehicles. BMW is actively pushing forward to answer those questions with innovative technology like that found in the ActiveE.”
About New Country BMW:
Hartford BMW drivers trust New Country BMW when they need to service their high-performance models, but New Country offers much more than just outstanding BMW service. When it comes to buying a new or certified pre-owned BMW, Connecticut BMW drivers can rely on New Country BMW for a stress-free buying experience that extends beyond the sale. Part of the New Country Motor Car Group family of dealerships, New Country BMW is located at One Weston Park Road in Hartford, Conn. They can be reached by phone at 866-498-7471, and their extensive online inventory can be found at www.newcountrybmw.com.
Media Contact:
Robert Maizner, of New Country Motor Car Group, 518-584-7700
