22 August 2010 - The Frankfurt Motor Show has given the creative French automaker Peugeot the opportunity to unveil the innovative BB1 concept - a "full electric vehicle that reinvents the automobile in every way: architecture, style, interior design, drive, connectivity – while all the time respecting the environment."
Instead, its rear wheels each incorporate an electric motor that provides drive, allowing for a more compact vehicle and more efficient space utilisation. No engine, no bonnet, more interior space.
The in-wheel motors, developed by Michelin and an evolution of the tyre company’s Active Wheel, are High Power Density traction motors that produce 10hp and 320Nm of torque each, resulting in the BB1’s total output of 20hp and 640Nm of torque. The impressive torque is characteristic of electric motors.
Along with the BB1’s 600kg curb weight, this allows it to accelerate to 60kph in 6.8 seconds.
Powering the motors is a lithium-ion battery pack that gives a range of 120km.
The Active Wheel, designed specifically for battery- and fuel cell-powered vehicles, was first presented by Michelin in 2004.
It features both an electric motor and an electrical active suspension system in place of a conventional spring-and-damper, as well as regenerative braking.
At 2.5 metres in length and 1.6 metres in width, the BB1 microcar is almost the same size as a Smart Fortwo but enjoys more interior space due to the absence of an engine. The BB1 can seat four, compared to the Fortwo’s two.
Peugeot has confirmed that the BB1 has been elevated to project status, and a production version should be unveiled in 2012 or 2013, bringing the concept of in-wheel motors ever closer to reality.
Thanks to its electric propulsion, the BB1 is an environmentally friendly vehicle emitting no loud noises outside the vehicle as well as zero emissions. The lack of pollutant emissions is due to the fact that it consumes no fossil fuels at all. However this eco-responsibility isn’t limited to just wasting gas, the BB1 is so efficient that at a standstill, the passenger compartment is continuously ventilated thanks to the solar panels placed on the roof of the vehicle.
Source: TopSpeed
