BMW Group selects AeroVironment for EV charging in major US cities

2132 AeroVironment has announced that the 1731 BMW Group has selected it as the preferred provider of electric vehicle charging equipment, accessories and installation services supporting the introduction of the all-electric BMW ActiveE. This vehicle is the second phase of the BMW Group’s electro-mobility development strategy and brings all-electric technology to a new class of luxury vehicles. ActiveE vehicles will be distributed in the major metropolitan markets of Boston, Los Angeles, New York City, San Diego, San Francisco Bay Area and Sacramento.

Based on the chassis of a BMW 1 Series Coupe, the ActiveE features an electric drivetrain and is powered by an advanced, high-voltage, lithium-ion battery pack.  AeroVironment’s EVSE-RS charging station will deliver approximately 25 miles of driving range per hour of charging time.  A complete charge from a fully discharged state will take between four and five hours, delivering the ActiveE’s maximum range of 100 miles.  The charging stations will be installed with a 240-volt electric circuit in drivers’ home garages as part of the vehicle’s total driving system, and are designed to provide a safe, practical and dependable charge.

The BMW ActiveE will be a prelude to the 2013 launch of the Megacity Vehicle, BMW Group’s all-electric urban hatchback.