1. Challenges

Driving pleasure with an environmental conscience: The AC Schnitzer 99d

From zero to 100 km/h in 6.9 seconds, a top speed of 235 km/h, 190 hp/140 kW of pure power and just 99g/km of CO2 – is this even possible? Dynamism, maximum driving pleasure and, at the same time, fewer emissions is something that every BMW series vehicle currently available can offer. And this is a real challenge that renowned automobile tuner AC Schnitzer has tackled with its 99d concept car.

As always, the challenge was to "build in" a high degree of sportiness, but this time another goal was given at least as much priority: To demonstrate responsibility for the environment and, in turn, to give a brief preview of how trends could develop over the next few decades.

2. Performance

Tailor-made drive 

The AC Schnitzer 99d uses BMW's most efficient diesel engine, which originates from the 320d EfficientDynamics edition. The Aachen-based tuners simply tweaked the performance, raising the original horsepower from 163 hp to 190 hp.

Intelligent weight reduction

The vehicle is an incredible 230 kg lighter – all thanks to a systematic lightweight construction concept. A lithium-ion battery and materials such as carbon, magnesium and titanium have all helped to achieve this dramatic weight reduction. No other BMW series features a lighter vehicle!

Revolutionary weight reduction

A full 35 kg has also been saved when it comes to the parts attached directly to the tyres. Materials from the aerospace industry as well as custom products such as the AC Schnitzer four-piston, high-performance, lightweight braking equipment with retraction system for the front axle and the one-part, high-strength, type VIII forged wheel rims with titanium wheel bolts ensure both low weight and maximum agility.

Conti on board too

The Continental BLUECO is a special concept development for the AC Schnitzer 99d. This ContiSportContact 5P upgrade ensures optimum rolling resistance, high cornering capability and a ZR speed rating for over 240 km/h.

3. Success

Without compromising

Improved aerodynamics, reduced weight, less friction – and yet no compromise on the driving pleasure that customers of AC Schnitzer have come to value for more than 20 years. The challenge was taken up and the goals have been achieved! And the results were so successful that AC Schnitzer had to create a new name for this groundbreaking concept: "Efficient Performance".

Focusing on the essentials without compromising on extras: Of course, the 99d is equipped with everything from safety modules such as airbags and ESC to multimedia interfaces (e.g. for linking the on-board computer and iPhone).

3.8 liter diesel engine over 100 kilometers. Hard to believe, but that's all it is. It's just a shame that this dream has only been realized as a one-off because the concept car was developed as a technology showcase and is not for sale.