BMW Advanced Diesels do not only perform as well as a gasoline engine. They perform as well as a BMW gasoline engine.
In 1998, we demonstrated the superiority of our diesel technology on the racetrack by winning the 24-hours of Nürburgring in a race-tuned 320d Sedan. This grueling test of endurance not only proved the 320d's ability to run longer between fuel stops, but on a larger scale, demonstrated that performance and fuel efficiency are not mutually exclusive.
Today, we offer a wide variety of diesel engines across our entire model range in Europe. Taking home the prestigious Engine of the Year Award several times, our diesel engines are renowned for their unequaled harmony of dynamic performance, innovative technology, surprisingly low fuel consumption, along with a smoothness that is uncommon for a Diesel. The pinnacle of BMW diesel technology to date is the 3.0-liter variable twin-turbo inline six-cylinder introduced recently in the 335d and 535d. With 286-hp and 427 lb-ft of torque, the 535d accelerates to 60 mph in less than 6.5 seconds, while delivering an average of 37 mpg on the highway.
Clearly, this level of technology is predestined for the U.S. market - not only in terms of power and efficiency, but for its potential to help reduce greenhouse gas emissions. In fact, this enhanced concept for minimum exhaust gas emissions has been developed to meet the strict emissions standards in effect in California and other states. With its carbon emissions down 10% - 20% from comparable gasoline vehicles, and near-elimination of both smoke and NOx emissions, BMW Advanced Diesels will be every bit as clean as CARB-legal gasoline engines when they are introduced in the US in 2008.
As a means of producing so much power with a minimum of environmental impact and a maximum of fuel efficiency, it's no surprise that BMW will be among the first to introduce 50-state clean diesel technology. After all, it often takes an independent company like ours to bring an idea like this to the public.