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Antony Ingram

Contributing Writer BIO

Antony has what can only be described as an obsession for all things automotive. If it moves, he'll drive it, and even if it doesn't move, he'll sit... More

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BMW Active-E

HI-RES GALLERY: BMW Active-E

BMW are developing some of the world's most anticipated electric cars at the moment with the i3 and i8 spearheading the launch of BMW's 'i' brand. The 1-Series based ActiveE is the first pure electric car to eminate from Bavaria since the MINI E, and the production car makes its world debut at the 2011 Geneva Motor Show.

The ActiveE is an important car for BMW as their first foray into making a useable four seat electric vehicle. Based on the 1-Series Coupe, the regular four and six cylinder gasoline and four cylinder diesel engines make way for a battery pack and electric motor, still driving the rear wheels.

Unlike the compact MINI E, the 1-Series platform has enough space to ensure that rear passengers can come along for the ride, and also offers a useful, if reduced, trunk space.

The 1-Series Coupe is a fine looking car and the ActiveE does nothing to change that, the display model only giving the game away thanks to some snazzy decals and for those looking more closely, the lack of exhaust pipe. The charging port is hidden in the space normally occupied by the fuel filler, giving nothing away to the casual observer. This is all part of BMW's plan to ensure the ActiveE maintains the essence of a BMW.