Tag Archives: mobility

BMW

Electric Mobility: BMW Debunks Myths in Video Podcast

Electric mobility is progressing rapidly, with a continuous rise in registrations of fully electric vehicles and the expansion of charging infrastructure. However, there are still many misconceptions surrounding electric vehicles. To address these misconceptions, BMW has launched a ten-part video podcast series called “Electric Myths.” Hosted by British tech enthusiast Tomi Adebayo (also known as GadgetsBoy) and transgender racing driver Charlie Martin, the podcast aims to debunk common myths and provide factual information about the advantages and possibilities of electric vehicles.

In each entertaining episode, the hosts discuss real-life anecdotes and answer questions that skeptics often have. They explore the day-to-day benefits of electric cars, their range capabilities, their cost-effectiveness, and their impact on the environment. The podcast also addresses the misconceptions surrounding hydrogen-powered vehicles and their safety.

The ten episodes will be released weekly, presenting a fun and informative way to understand electric mobility. Martin and Adebayo emphasize the enjoyable driving experience offered by electric vehicles from BMW, taking driving pleasure to a new level.

The podcast aims to create a better understanding of electric mobility without overwhelming the audience with contradicting statements. The episodes focus on lively exchanges, maintaining a modern and youthful vibe. Starting from June 22, 2023, the first two episodes will be available on BMW’s audio channels on Spotify, Apple, and Google Podcasts, as well as in video form on BMW.com and the company’s YouTube channel.

This podcast series, “Electric Myths,” follows BMW’s successful sustainability podcast, “CHASING THE GREENEST CAR.” In the previous series, environmental activist Anne Therese Gennari explores the sustainable efforts of BMW and the significance of electric mobility in reducing the company’s carbon footprint. The podcast delves into topics such as recycling, circular economy, social impact, and the future wave of innovations.

With a commitment to sustainability, the BMW Group aims to drive the transformation towards electric mobility. The company already offers fully electric models in all relevant segments and plans to increase the delivery share of all-electric vehicles to 50% by 2025 under the Neue Klasse models, while further reducing the carbon footprint over the entire product lifecycle.

Link to the podcast: https://www.bmw.com/en/electric-future/electric-car-myths-podcast.html

News

BMW iX5 Hydrogen: Everything You Need To Know

BMW unveiled the hydrogen-powered iX5 in 2022, as part of its commitment to sustainable mobility. BMW joins other companies like Toyota, Honda, and Hyundai in exploring the potential of hydrogen-cell-powered vehicles. The BMW iX5 is an SUV that offers fast and efficient performance without the need for lengthy battery charging. Refueling is done at hydrogen stations, similar to traditional gasoline vehicles. BMW is preparing for a future where hydrogen-cell-powered vehicles may become dominant, and they are currently hand-building 100 test versions of the iX5 at their Munich factory.

Related: Automakers Deeply Invested In Hydrogen-powered Cars

The BMW iX5 Makes Nearly 400 Horses

White BMW iX5 Hydrogen
BMW
Rear shot of BMW iX5 Hydrogen on a test drive in the freezing temperatures of northern Sweden

The BMW iX5 combines fifth-generation fuel cell technology with an electric motor, making 395 horsepower and 524 pound-feet of torque. This SUV can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in six seconds. It offers an impressive 313-mile range according to the European cycle, or about 250 miles as per the stricter EPA ratings. The iX5 can be refueled in just three to four minutes, similar to a traditional gasoline vehicle. These features make fuel cell technology a promising option that offers both power and range. The iX5 is currently undergoing testing in harsh winter conditions in northern Sweden, demonstrating its safety and performance in low temperatures.

Related: Hydrogen Electric Vehicles: The Next Big Thing In The Automotive Industry?

It Is An X5 With A Different Heart

The BMW iX5 Hydrogen's interior
BMW
The BMW iX5 Hydrogen’s interior

The BMW iX5 is based on the X5 model. It features the iconic kidney grill with a blue accent and a closed-off design for improved aerodynamics. The SUV is equipped with sleek headlights, big intakes, and aerodynamic 22-inch wheels with blue accents. The flared arches give it a sporty look, and it has ‘BMW I Hydrogen Fuel Cells’ stickers to distinguish it from the regular X5. The iX5 also has frameless doors, flush door handles, and an aggressive rear design. The interior follows a blue accent theme on the dashboard, gear lever, and door panels, creating a luxurious and well-designed cabin. It features two screens for the driver and infotainment, and it is expected to offer Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity.

Related: 10 Reasons To Get Excited About Hydrogen Electric Vehicles

The Promise Of Hydrogen Fuel Cells

BMW iX5 Hydrogen in white
BMW
The BMW iX5 Hydrogen getting refueled

Hydrogen fuel cell technology offers several advantages over electric and gasoline-powered vehicles. It provides a long-range, quick refueling times, and emits only water vapor as a byproduct. However, there are challenges related to hydrogen fueling infrastructure and the cost of obtaining hydrogen. Despite these challenges, the ongoing investment in hydrogen fuel cell technology suggests that it has the potential to become a viable and accessible option in the future. Just like electric vehicles, hydrogen fuel cell technology may overcome its limitations with further advancements and become a promising solution for carbon-neutral transportation. BMW’s rigorous winter testing and research efforts demonstrate their commitment to being a market leader in fuel cell technology when it becomes more widely available.

ToyotaUk

$9 Million Global City Challenge Launched to Drive Safe, Inclusive, and Sustainable Innovation in City Mobility

  • The Toyota Mobility Foundation has launched a three-year Sustainable Cities Challenge
  • The Challenge aims to help cities reduce carbon, improve access, and enhance data-driven concepts for transport systems
  • Three cities will work with innovators to overcome their mobility barriers

LONDON (June 21, 2023) – The Toyota Mobility Foundation, in partnership with Challenge Works and World Resources Institute, has launched a $9 million global challenge to help cities adapt to the future, with the potential to transform the lives of millions around the world.

As cities grow and evolve, the challenges of moving people and goods in reliable, efficient, and inclusive ways have never been more essential. At the same time, opportunities to apply advances in transport modes, infrastructure design, operations, energy options, and connected data systems have never been more promising.

The Sustainable Cities Challenge aims to improve the lives of people by increasing access to jobs, education, and other essential services. It will bring cities and innovators together to implement mobility solutions that could reduce carbon, improve accessibility, and use data to build more resilient transport systems.

“Our experience over the past decade has underscored the importance of local cities’ buy-in and engagement with our activities,” Ryan Klem, director of programs at the Toyota Mobility Foundation, said. “Throughout the Sustainable Cities Challenge, we are looking to work alongside cities to find innovative solutions in the areas they identify as critical to develop a scalable model for the cities of tomorrow.”

Call for Entries

Entry to the first stage of the Challenge is open to city leaders and municipal governments, transport departments and other related local and regional agencies. Entries should be submitted according to one or more of the following three themes:

  • Expanding access to safe, affordable, and inclusive modes of transportation
  • Harnessing the power of data to create connected and resilient mobility ecosystems
  • Reducing environmental impact through low-carbon and renewable energy solutions

Shortlisted cities will be invited to attend a capacity building academy in the U.S. and will receive support developing their challenge design, becoming part of a wider network of other innovative city teams.

In February 2024, three winning cities will be selected to host a City Challenge to attract entries from global innovators. Innovators could be homegrown – living in the city or country chosen – or from anywhere across the globe, but with solutions applicable and adapted to the winning cities.

The winning innovators for each city will be announced in late 2024, and the cities and innovators will share $9 million in funding to test and roll out their solutions.

Increase mobility solutions for a more sustainable future

Many cities are now adapting to new behaviors and lifestyles, as our lives move increasingly online, and patterns of work change. With more than half of the world’s population currently living in cities, the United Nations predicts this will increase to two-thirds by 2050. Additionally, cities are responsible for 70% of global greenhouse gas emissions.

The Sustainable Cities Challenge is funded by the Toyota Mobility Foundation and has been designed in partnership with Challenge Works and World Resources Institute. Challenge Works is an international leader in developing challenge programs to drive new thinking and find creative solutions to problems facing society. World Resources Institute is a global research organization which works with partners to develop practical solutions that improve people’s lives and ensure that nature can thrive.

“Brilliant people all over the world are working hard to create innovative solutions to help mobility systems work better, and with a lower carbon footprint,” Kathy Nothstine, head of future cities at Challenge Works, said. “The Sustainable Cities Challenge will help those innovators interface with cities to test and adapt solutions according to local needs to improve people’s lives. Challenges like this can act as catalysts for change by accelerating innovation in real-world settings.”

In addition to helping cities decarbonize, transforming mobility systems will help cities become more inclusive and accessible for the people living in them. Currently, 1.2 billion people living in cities do not have access to one or more core services.

“Cities are in need of innovations to foster sustainable mobility that reduces emissions, improves health, and increases access to jobs and opportunity for all,” Ben Welle, director of integrated transport and innovation at World Resources Institute’s Ross Center for Sustainable Cities, said. “The Sustainable Cities Challenge is an excellent opportunity for cities globally to build capacity and support innovators to work hand in hand with officials.”

To find out more and to enter, visit the Sustainable Cities Challenge website.

About Toyota Mobility Foundation

The Toyota Mobility Foundation (TMF) was established in August 2014 by the Toyota Motor Corporation (Toyota) to support the development of a more mobile society in which everyone can move freely. The Foundation underscores Toyota’s ongoing commitment to continuous improvement and respect for people. It utilizes Toyota’s expertise and technologies to support strong mobility systems while eliminating disparities in mobility. TMF works in partnership with universities, governments, non-profits, research institutions, and other organizations, creating programs that are aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) to address mobility issues around the world.

In the past, TMF has led a range of Challenges, including the global Mobility Unlimited Challenge, CATCH in Malaysia, InoveMob Challenge in Brazil and STAMP Challenge in India. You can find out more about TMF and how it is governed at toyotamobilityfoundation.org

About Challenge Works

For a decade, Challenge Works has established itself as a global leader in designing and delivering high-impact challenges that incentivize cutting-edge innovation for social good. Challenge Works is a social enterprise founded by the UK’s innovation agency Nesta. In the last 10 years, they have run more than 80 prizes, distributed £100 million in funding, and engaged with more than 12,000 innovators. Challenge Works believes no challenge is unsolvable, partnering with non-profits, governments, and other organizations around the globe to unearth the entrepreneurs and their innovations that can solve the greatest challenges of our time. Visit them at https://challengeworks.org/

About World Resources Institute

World Resources Institute (WRI) is a global research organization with offices in Brazil, China, Colombia, India, Indonesia, Mexico, and the United States, and regional offices for Africa and Europe. WRI’s 1,700 staff work with partners to develop practical solutions that improve people’s lives and ensure nature can thrive. Learn more: WRI.org and on Twitter @WorldResources.

News

Peugeot Invests In French Electric Motorcycle Firm DAB Motors

There’s no denying that electric motorcycles are the future of two-wheeled mobility. With rapid growth in Europe and Asia, electric two-wheelers are foreseen to become more popular in the coming years. Indeed, nearly all manufacturers big and small are developing new EV platforms, the latest of which is French motorcycle brand Peugeot Motocycles.

We’ve talked about Peugeot Motocycles quite a bit in recent years. The historic French marque seems to be undergoing a resurgence, rolling out new models left and right, in multiple markets. Indeed, thanks to funding from German company Mutares, the French brand has been given a second lease on life. That being said, with electric motorbikes apparently the next big thing, it’s no surprise that Peugeot wants in on the action, too. 

Peugeot Introduces Limited Django 125 And 150 Bordeaux Edition In Japan

In an article by Le Repaire Des Motards, Sébastien Mas, President of Peugeot Motorcycles explained, “The main driver of our collaboration lies in the DAB brand promise: to deliver thrills on two wheels to the bold. This powerful commitment has led us to recognize the need to venture into the electrical field, relying on our strong heritage of 125 years of know-how. In addition, the essence of both brands is rooted in production in France. We are very proud to manufacture our premium ranges locally, to preserve our expertise and to contribute to the growth of French industry.”

Instead of developing a new EV platform from the ground up, Peugeot has decided to invest in another company to carry out its EV-focused endeavors. Said company is fellow French firm DAB motors. Founded in 2019, the Biarritz-based company started out building custom motorcycles. In 2021, it entered the EV space with its Concept-E, an electric motorbike with minimalist, sporty design akin to that of a supermoto. It was designed as a 125cc-equivalent in terms of performance. 

Dab Motors Unveils Concept-E Electric Naked Bike

On paper, a machine like the DAB Concept-E is a perfect fit for what Peugeot wants to achieve in the future. Peugeot, being the established company that it is, undoubtedly has the expertise when it comes to sales, distribution, and mass-production. Meanwhile, DAB has the technological know-how to make impressive, premium electric motorcycles. That being said, you can probably see where this is going – the partnership could very well result in the commercialization of the Concept-E, or some other equivalent electric two-wheeler.

On the DAB Motors side fo the equation, company founder and CEO Simon Dabadie stated in the same report, “I am delighted to be associated with a historic manufacturer such as Peugeot Motocycles. This strategic collaboration will allow DAB Motors to take a new step. With the support of Peugeot Motocycles, DAB Motors will soon mass-produce its electric motorcycles and deliver them worldwide.”

 Now, whether DAB will retain its branding, or be absorbed into Peugeot as a whole, remains to be seen. What we do know, is that DAB is set to put up its production line in Peugeot’s large factory in Mandeure, France. The end-goal is to have an electric motorcycle that’s affordable, practical, and 100-percent made in France. Peugeot now holds a majority share in DAB Motors, so expect to hear quite a lot more about this partnership in the future. 

Motorsport

Nyobolt Develops EV Concept with Revolutionary Battery Technology: Fully Recharged In 6 Minutes

One of the biggest complaints about electric cars is their long charging times that cannot compare with refuelling speeds of gasoline-powered vehicles. Nyobolt, a British firm that produces ultra-fast-charging batteries, claims it has revolutionized battery technology and developed a battery pack that can fully charge in less than six minutes. The concept EV sports car boasts a 35-kilowatt-hour battery pack that can cover a range of approximately 155 miles (250 kilometers) on a single charge. Although the weight of the sports car has not been officially disclosed, Nyobolt hinted that it is closer to one tonne than two, indicating that the car weighs less than 3,307 pounds (1,500 kilograms).


Volkswagen

Transformation of Mobility in Astypalea: The Future of Sustainable Transportation

The Greek island of Astypalea is serving as a test bed for sustainable, smart mobility initiatives. The Volkswagen Group and the Hellenic Republic have partnered to slowly transform the island’s transportation system to include e-mobility, digital mobility solutions, and green energy. The initial results are promising. The digital mobility solutions, such as the ASTYBUS ride sharing service, show positive acceptance rates with 25% of the island’s population taking advantage of the service. In the last year alone, the service has completed over 200,000 customer kilometers. Electrification of the transportation system is also making strides. Almost all of the new cars registered on Astypalea are now fully electric.

The Volkswagen Group is investing its knowledge and expertise in mobility to help Astypalea achieve its goals. Volkswagen, Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles, Ducati, and SEAT MÓ have all provided vehicles to support the project. The transformation of Astypalea’s mobility sector is nearly complete. This includes the implementation of a public charging infrastructure, a special subsidy scheme for private customers and companies, the electrification of authority vehicles (such as police and airport vehicles), as well as mobility services such as ASTYBUS and astyGO. The number of electric vehicles on the small island has gone from zero to 84 in a short period of time.

ASTYBUS, the ride-sharing service, displace the limited traditional bus line that was the only means of local transportation on Astypalea. Unlike the bus line, ASTYBUS operates all year round, connecting many more places on the island. Depending on the season, up to five vehicles are used for this service. With astyGO, customers can rent electric cars from Volkswagen, e-scooters from SEAT MÓ, and e-bikes from Ducati. Users can easily book these vehicles through their smartphones by using the integrated astyMOVE app.

Maik Stephan, Head of Business Development of the Volkswagen Group, has commented “Over the next two decades, we will see many of the changes that make up the Astypalea project in other regions of Europe as well. Particularly impressive is the people’s change in mood from initial skepticism to great approval. This shows that rapid transformation is possible if companies, politicians, and society work together.”

Green Energy: 3 Megawatt Solar Park

The next phase of the project includes the renovation of the energy system, with a gradual switch towards locally produced renewable energy. The smaller existing solar plants currently power parts of the island’s electrical fleet with renewable energy. The construction of a hybrid power system is the next milestone in the project. This system is set to begin operating in 2024 and will consist of a 3.5-megawatt solar park and battery storage system. This park will provide 100% of the island’s energy needs for e-mobility transportation and 60% of its general energy needs. The Greece-first tender for this energy project has just recently closed.

By 2026, the island aims to have an energy system that covers around 80% of the total energy demand. Previously, Astypalea relied mainly on diesel generators to generate electricity that emitted up to 5,000 tons of CO2 per year.

Accompanying Scientific Study

An accompanying scientific study shows that people on the island overwhelmingly support the transformation – with 80% of the island residents having a positive view of e-mobility and mobility services. This signifies a significant improvement compared to the first survey taken at the beginning of the project in 2021, proving that providing relevant information about new technologies and services is crucial. Particularly impressive, the flexible and affordable ASTYBUS ride-sharing service is rated with a remarkable 97% approval. The study took place in two phases: in the winter of 2022-2023 and the summer of 2021, with a total of 211 and 221 people participating. Scientists from the University of the Aegean (Greece) and the University of Strathclyde (Scotland) will evaluate the project over several years.

Sustainability in the Volkswagen Group

Sustainability is among the 10 strategic fields of action that the Volkswagen Group is significantly prioritizing under the leadership of CEO Oliver Blume. This is evident in their emphasis on e-mobility and their ramp-up plans for all of the Group’s brands. In 2021, Volkswagen also strengthened their CO2 targets in production and intends to reduce CO2 emissions from passenger cars and light commercial vehicles by 50% by 2030.

BMW

German men’s biathlon team tests in the BMW Group wind tunnel.

+++ Technology transfer enhances mobility partnership between the BMW Group and DSV Biathlon +++ German’s male biathletes test in the wind tunnel for the first time +++ Valuable findings with regard to stance and aiming process +++ Reference points for further optimisations and innovations +++

Munich. Since last autumn, the BMW Group has been “Mobility Partner of the German National Biathlon Team” and has provided the team with electrified vehicles. Within this partnership, BMW has allowed the DSV biathlon squad to perform tests in a wind tunnel for the first time. In the different wind speeds and directions generated in the controlled laboratory conditions in the BMW Group’s Aerolab, the DSV men were able to analyse their body posture, their reactions to different conditions, and the movement of their weapons when shooting whilst standing.

Here, where the NEUE KLASSE of BMW cars are usually put through their paces and optimised aerodynamically, it was now the German biathletes who for two days had the opportunity to examine their stance and aiming process in the wind. With the athletes too, it was all about identifying potential for improvement, as biathlon races are often decided at the shooting range.

“The BMW Group wind tunnel is our main test centre, as far as aerodynamics are concerned. Here, we are able to determine the proportions and finer details of the vehicle, making it as efficient as possible and thus increasing electrical range,” says Holger Gau, Head of Dynamics Mid-Range BMW. “With the biathletes, we analysed the sensitivity of the shooting with a side wind. As we are able to generate consistent conditions in the wind tunnel, the athletes were able to adopt different postures, which could then be analysed and compared.”

Pressure points and pressure distribution were measured using sensors on the soles of the biathlon shoes. A measuring device was mounted on the barrel of the gun, which recorded the aiming and shooting process. The athletes were also observed in the wind tunnel by cameras and trainers. Last but not least, the analysis also incorporated the subjective feelings of the biathletes.

“We have just one challenge – and that is to be as successful as possible in competition. However, to master this challenge you have to do something in an awful lot of areas. You have to be progressive, if you want to break into the world elite,” says Uroš Velepec, coach of the DSV German men’s biathlon squad. “As such, it is very valuable to be given the opportunity to test in a wind tunnel for the first time. Together with the aerodynamics experts in the BMW Group, we have developed some really significant tests. The results are already promising. We are very grateful to BMW and I hope this partnership will continue to develop on a technological level.”

As well as the individual analysis of the standing position in the wind, and the compensatory movements, Velepec also took another approach: without naming names, he is convinced that there are athletes in the German men’s squad who are among the best in the world when shooting in the wind. The goal now was to find out how these athletes act intuitively and to use that to develop a model, which could be applied to others. “We can now see what these athletes are doing differently,” said Velepec after the wind tunnel tests. “We always suspected it, but we now have proof and know how they do it.”

Karlheinz Waibel, DSV National Science and Technology Coach, is also impressed by the two days in the wind tunnel and the cooperation with the BMW Group engineers. He says: “We planned the tests together with the BMW experts and wanted to know how they would approach them. We were asked questions, which we were unable to answer, because we did not have any knowledge from the past. That is how we came up with exciting and clever ideas, which we will continue to pursue – with regard to aerodynamic improvements to the gun, for example.”

It will take a few more weeks to evaluate and analyse the data acquired, but one thing is already certain: the German national biathlon team’s first trip to the BMW Group’s Aerolab will not be the last.