Actually, I had the same thought about NiMH a year ago when Ford announced their plug-in suv hybrid and investment in that particular technology (that thought being: “nimh– seriously???”). But there apparently were good reasons for that in manufacturing, longevity and overall economics despite lower power density. Those specific reasons I didn’t manage to remember.

Actually, one thing I do remember is that mechanical flywheels (particularly solid carbon fiber) so still theoretically have more power-storage “density” than any of the battery technologies, hence their use in space applications, power grid management and BMW’s apparently disappointing hybrid system.

“No active cooling refers to Li-Poly battery complex only. Since the energy management is so efficient, batteries do not heat up to a level requiring active cooling.

All the other systems (engine, AC, thermo-electric generator) still have active cooling systems. “

My biggest concern/fear for BMW’s new hybrid drives was it’s batteries. Nickel Metal Hydride batteries are antiquated and do not belong on a BMW. I was very dissapointed to learn of their use on current BMW Hybrids such as the new X6 hybrid (though still the most powerful hybrid in the world!). On the positive, it looks like BMW’s partnership with SB LiMotive (a German/Korean company backed by Bosch and Samsung) is yeilding awesome results as the VED concept is powered by Lithium Polymer battery technology – the very latest and greatest in battery tech.

Here’s why the VED concept’s use of Lithium Polymer Batteries makes be SO EXCITED and IMPRESSED:

Compared with nickel–metal hydride batteries, lithium polymer batteries deliver the same power with 30 percent less weight, 50 percent less volume and 10 percent greater efficiency over nickel–metal hydride batteries. Lithium polymer batteries offer more than twice the energy density of nickel–metal hydride batteries, and 175 percent greater volumetric energy density, meaning BMW engineers can devote less space and weight to the battery pack, and have better placement resulting in a lower Center of gravity, 50/50 balance, etc.

Lithium polymer batteries also hold their charge 20 times longer than NiMH. Lithium polymer batteries are more resistant to changes in temperature, which improves cycle life and makes them better suited for use in extremely Hot or Cold climates. Lithium polymer’s self–discharge rate is less than a third of a nickel–metal hydride batteries (meaning you can let your car sit for 66% longer without loosing your charge). Lithium polymer is more resistant to physical damage since the functional unit of the battery consists of a polymer Gel instead of liquid. This allows for thinner walls housing the gel made of aluminum, instead of the thick and heavy protective metal walls of a NiMH battery. Lithium Polymer batteries can handle more charge–discharge cycles before storage capacity begins to degrade. Lithium polymer technology also offers significant advantages in safety compared with typical lithium–ion batteries.

Obviously, this is a triumphant announcment by BMW and I am ecstatic at the news!!!

There are many good things to come in the future of BMW Efficient Dynamics.

Of note, Hyundai motors is acutally the first to use Lithium Polymer battery tech on their new Hybrids though their cooperation with LG of Korea. The above technical specs are from Hyundai. I’m noticing a trend here… Korea is leading the world in battery development!!! Again, it’s great to see BMW partnership with SB LiMotive!

You say this car will come to life because you believe it or because you know something we do’nt know?

Considering there is no cooling fan in this car (not even one), an extra air flow is crucial.

and notice how the rear wheels are subtly placed wider than the front, much like the concept we saw earlier on where the back wheels were completely unattached from the main body and had their own mud guard like covers. This must be due to motor and the electric motor.