Secret BMW Prototypes Revealed

Deep within the premises of many carmakers are places where top secret projects are carried out. Some of these projects are commercially feasible and continue on to become future production models. But there are many that are shelved for various reasons – cost, practicality, design – and the public may never ever know they existed unless they are exhibited as concept cars at motorshows.

To mark their 15th anniversary, BMW Technik GmbH, BMW’s division which develops and makes those highly desirable M-Cars and is involved in many high-performance activities released information on two hitherto secret concept cars, the Z18 All-Terrain roadster and its latest concept car, the Z22, which focusses on the use of the most advanced electronic control systems.

Z18
The Z18 is a concept car which has been in existence for some time but which has only now been unveiled. It combines two highly successful vehicle concepts, that of the roadster and the all-terrain sports activity vehicle.

Designed as a two-seater, but also capable of being converted to a pick-up or a 2+2, the Z18 uses an X5-type drivetrain, which gives 4WD. It uses a 4.4 litre V8 as the powerplant.

A unique mixture of street and cross country machines, the idea for the Z18 had its genesis in the continuing success of BMW motorcycles with its large enduro all-terrain models, such as the latest R 1150 GS. BMW Technik engineers relished the opportunity to apply the successful R 1150 GS philosophy to a four wheeled vehicle, producing a study which can claim to be the world’s only all-terrain roadster.

The tall Z18 prototype features a plastic outer shell on a steel frame structure and weighs at 1,560 kgs.

Z22
The latest in the series of BMW Technik study cars carrying the ‘Z’ designation is the Z22. This concept car focusses on the use of lightweight construction materials and the application of the latest in electronic control systems for steering, acceleration and braking. The Z22 also introduces a new ‘command centre’ concept for the operation of all of the integrated driver information and assistance technologies.

The concept car weighs just under 1,100 kgs, yet provides the same internal space as the 528i touring. It achieves this 33% weight-saving over current technologies by the innovative use of new carbonfibre technology and the separation of the body into cells using that new technology in the most effective manner.

The electronic control systems include an electronic throttle regulator and, for the first time, steering and braking also controlled electronically. Although the driver will notice no functional difference in the operation of the vehicle, the new systems do away with any mechanical connection and also provide additional flexibility in the provision of safety and internal design due to the lack of requirement for a steering column.

Conventional mechanical steering has been replaced by an electro-mechanical system which is infinitely adjustable, thereby providing a broader range of assistance where and when required, according to the vehicle’s speed. The new system is also capable of translating driver input into reaction at the wheels with greater speed, thus also improving the agility of the vehicle.

In addition to the full range of driver-assistance systems now being provided by BMW in its cars such as DSCIII, ASC+T, CBC (Cornering Brake Control), and the latest ABS systems, the Z22 introduces electrically-operated braking. Although providing the same driver feel, the new system is far more capable of processing driver input with greater speed and efficiency than has previously been the case. The braking system’s central control unit continually calculates the optimal application of brake pressure and then distributes that pressure to each wheel as best required to ensure the greatest vehicle stability. Replacing conventional brake shoes,electro-mechanical actuators press the brake pads against the disks.

The parking brake is provided by an additional brake device integrated into these actuators and is controlled by a separate electronic pushbutton.

The Z22 also uses CVT (Continuously-Variable Transmission) which has a number of programs that can be selected by the driver dependant on requirements and conditions.

The interior of the Z22 features not only the latest in command centre design from BMW Technik, but also the application of cutting-edge technology. Some examples: fingerprint identification entry and key operation; the use of cameras instead of rear vision mirrors, providing a panoramic image, completely eliminating any blind spots; heads up display providing all primary driver information projected onto the windscreen at the ideal focal point for the driver; a central monitor which displays all vehicle functions controlled by a multi-function steering wheel and a central control element known as the MMI (Man-Machine Interface).

The Z22 also does without a traditional gearshift, with the MMI providing program selection for the CVT where necessary. The central MMI is composed of a six-position rotary switch and a keypad. To start the motor, the driver must place his or her finger on the rotary switch which determines authority to drive.

The MMI in conjunction with the central monitor, can then act as the navigator and controller of all other vehicle functions and in a series of tests recently conducted, it was established that use of the MMI was far more operator-friendly and intuitive than any previous systems.

Will we ever see such cars? Dream on…!