BMW's attractive green solution

EfficientDynamics has always been seen as a flag-bearing program of green technology - and now BMW has really stolen a march on the competition with the introduction of MTT.

Magnetic Tow Technology is launched as standard across the entire BMW range from today (April 1st) as an innovative system that projects a magnetic beam up to 20 metres in front of the car. This beam latches onto the car in front, effectively making it a tow car and meaning that BMW drivers can switch the engine off and hitch a free ride at any time. Plus, the magnetic nature of the beam means the 'tow car' won't feel any difference. All the driver need do is depress the clutch and the car will start up again and unhook itself from the car in front.

Research has suggested that fuel consumption reductions of up to 30 percent are possible with the system - and even more for drivers who spend a lot of time on the motorway. Dr Noitt All, BMW's specialist in Kinetic Ride and Propulsion, said: "Up until now the EfficientDynamics program has looked at ways of improving the performance of our own products, but we thought why burn your own fuel when you can burn someone else's?"

BMW realises that the new system might court some controversy (especially among non-BMW drivers), so has instructed its Deputy Head of Global Research, Uve Vollenvorit, to collate feedback from members of the public - as well as any other suggestions for saving fuel in future BMWs.

Mark Nichol