Taiwan’s KYMCO to produce EREV for BMW

Kwang Yang Motor Co., Ltd. (KYMCO), Taiwan’s largest powered two-wheeler manufacturer, announced that BMW had ordered gasoline engines for its extended range electric vehicles (EREV). Over longer distances, EREVs, with relatively smaller engines than internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles, consume less fuel in generator mode. The engine on EREVs only meets average power needs, with peak power needs met by batteries. The agreement was signed in July. For the past two years, Kymco has been supplying the 450cc motorcycle engine for BMW’s G450X. Prior to signing the agreement, BMW sent five engineers to Kymco’s Kaohsiung plant to ensure that the facility meets strict BMW standards. Sources say BMW’s EREV could be launched within two years. (September 14, 2011)