BMW X6 and 7-Series ActiveHybrids: First Official Photos of Production Models

The first official photos along with initial specs of the production version of BMW's X6 and 7-Series Hybrid models slipped into the internet today ahead of their world debut at next month's Frankfurt Motor Show. Both models carry the ActiveHybrid moniker and are equipped with a hybrid drivetrain that combines a V8 petrol engine with one electric motor in the 7-Series and two in the X6.

It is reported that the X6 ActiveHybrid's drivetrain produces a combined output of 478bhp and 575 lb-ft of torque enabling the crossover to sprint from zero to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 5.6 seconds or 0.2 seconds slower than the xDrive50i that's powered by a 408 HP twin-turbo V8 petrol. The slightly worse sprint time may be attributed to the hybrid model's additional tech that adds 185 kg or 408 pounds to the crossover's overall weight.

BMW says that the X6 ActiveHybrid, which can run on pure electric power for a mere 1.6 miles or 2.5 km at speeds of up to 37 mph or 60 km/h, has a combined fuel economy rating of 28.5 mpg - though we're not sure if this figure is in US or IMP mpg.

Cosmetic changes over the standard model include the addition of a power-dome on the hood, different alloy wheels, special badges and the availability of a unique metallic blue hue.

The ActiveHybrid 7's drivetrain with the single electric motor is less powerful than the X6 delivering a combined output of 459bhp and 561 lb-ft of torque. The 7-Series is said to hit the 100 km/h (62 mph) mark in 4.9 seconds while returning 29.1 mpg -again, it is not clear if this figure represents US or Imp. mpg's.

By comparison, the 750i that gets a 4.4-liter twin-turbocharged V8 petrol with 408HP accelerates from standstill to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 5.2 seconds and has a combined fuel economy of 11.4 lt /100 km that converts to 20.6 mpg US and 24.8 mpg UK (Imp).

We'll have more details on both hybrid bimmers as soon as BMW officially releases information and photos.

Via: Autocar

BMW ActiveHybrid 7

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BMW ActiveHybrid X6

BMW 7-Series and X6 Hybrids Set for Frankfurt Show Debut

The production variants of the 2008 ActiveHybrid 7-Series and 2007 ActiveHybrid X6 concept studies are set to make their world premiere at the Frankfurt Motor Show, BMW announced today. The two mild-hybrids are expected to feature the same drivetrain that comprises of a 4.4-liter twin-turbocharged V8 petrol with 407HP and 600Nm (442 lb-ft) of torque, working in combination with an electric motor that's integrated in the transmission housing and makes 20HP and 210Nm /155 lb-ft.

The hybrid system allows the 7-Series and X6 hybrids to be powered either exclusively by the electric motor (like the Prius) or in tandem with the V8 gasoline engine. In previous statements, BMW officials claimed that the system is expected to increase fuel-economy by around 10 to 15 percent over a conventionally-powered model.

As we reported yesterday, the Bavarian automaker will also take the wraps off an all-new eco-friendly sports car concept named EfficientDynamics Vision. Other world premieres include the 5-Series Gran Turismo and the X1 SUV.

BMW also announced that as a first time for the Frankfurt motor show, all three brands of the group (BMW, MINI and Rolls Royce) will be presented under one roof.

The MINI world premieres include the birthday editions MINI 50 Camden and MINI 50 Mayfair as well as what the BMW referred to as "further surprising product innovations." As for Rolls Royce, the focus will be on the world premiere of the Ghost sedan.