BMW puts London Olympics 2012 green fleet into motion


BMW has unveiled the 200 electric vehicles and 400 bicycles that will help ensure the London Olympics Games’ fleet does not exceed average emissions of 120 grams of CO2 per kilometre.

The automaker yesterday revealed the full line-up of more than 3,000 vehicles that will make up the London 2012 fleet, including a car to lead the Olympic torch relay and others to act as official vehicles for events.

Half the fleet will be BMW 320d Efficient Dynamic saloons, each emitting 109gCO2/km, while another 700 will be BMW 520d Efficient Dynamics emitting 119gCO2/km.

In addition, 160 zero emission BMW 1 Series ActiveE electric vehicles (EV) and 40 MINI EVs will be included to shuttle athletes and broadcasters across the Olympic Park.

Another 400 bikes will be brought in to support water sport events, allowing rowing team coaches and officials to follow races, for example.

In addition, the fleet will include 200 Mini Countryman Cooper Ds, 20 BMW 5 Series Active Hybrids, 27 SUVs, and 25 motorbikes.

“BMW said the fleet’s average emissions will be 116g CO2/km, which is below the 120g CO2/km target set by London Olympic Games Organising Committee (LOCOG).

Our London 2012 fleet shows what BMW technology can achieve today in terms of fuel economy and low emissions, including the first major presence of super clean EU6-compliant cars on UK roads,” said Chris Brownridge, UK marketing director for BMW.

“We look forward to sharing our vision of sustainable urban mobility during the Games, including our revolutionary electric vehicle technology at the BMW Group Pavilion in the Olympic park.” BMW refused to reveal details of the cost of the entire Olympic fleet “due to contractual reasons”. After the Games, the cars will be returned to BMW and sold into the used car market.

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