Audi BMW

The rumormill is back in business and the British magazine Autocar speculates reports that BMW is working on an hybrid system that uses two engines. According to the UK fellas, a patent has been filed by BMW which describes the technology as a “hybrid vehicle having a split engine”. The hybrid setup comprises a first internal combustion engine unit and a second internal combustion engine unit, and the idea behind this technology is for the car to be driven by one of the engines and the electric motor at low speeds or when power demands are low. When more speed or power is needed, the second engine cuts in.

The patent does not disclose any number or specific details, but it does mentions the possibility of two-cylinder engines being employed. To confuse us even further, the patent mentions that the two engines could differ in size, for example a four-cylinder unit coupled with a two-cylinder powerplant.

The electric motor will assist the two engines to generate extra torque compensating for any loss when the system switches between the two.

The currently launched BMW ActiveHybrid X6 features a two-mode hybrid system which allows the X6 to run either on its electric motors alone at low speeds, internal combustion or a combination of both. X6 Hybrid makes use of not one, but two electric motors which deliver 91 hp and 86 hp, respectively, with peak torque values of 192 lb-ft and 206 lb-ft. Top speed in the electric mode is 37 mph, maximum range is 1.6 miles.

On the other hand, the ActiveHybrid 7 uses a different electric drive setup from the X6 Hybrid and it’s being considered a mild hybrid. The system was developed in collaboration with Mercedes Benz. The upgraded V8 twin-turbo with High Precision Direct Injection runs together, at the same time, with a 3-phase synchronous electric motor which is positioned between the engine and the torque converter. The electric motor generates approximately 20 hp and peak torque of 155 lb-ft.

The future looks bright for BMW and clearly, Project i program is well underway and we expect more hybrid powered BMWs in the next few years, beginning with the BMW 5 Series Hybrid model.

A few days ago we reported that BMW will offer the ActiveHybrid 7 initially and exclusively to celebrities and various VIPs, before the sale begins in Spring 2010. Thanks to Christian Wimmer in Munich, we can now show you some new photos of these vehicles.

Sporting a different colors than the ones we have seen so far at auto shows around the world, the BMW ActiveHybrid 7 is preparing for its first deliveries. Most likely, the VIP vehicles will feature less art work, leaving a much cleaner exterior design.

BMW’s first hybrid performance/luxury sedans will arrive in U.S. showrooms in Spring 2011 with a base MSRP of $103,125 including destination and handling for the ActiveHybrid 7. The long wheelbase ActiveHybrid 7L will cost $107,025.

The first production ready BMW hybrid uses a different electric drive setup from the X6 Hybrid and it is being considered a mild hybrid. The system was developed in collaboration with Mercedes Benz. The upgraded V8 twin-turbo with High Precision Direct Injection runs together, at the same time, with a 3-phase synchronous electric motor which is positioned between the engine and the torque converter. The electric motor generates approximately 20 hp and peak torque of 155 lb-ft.

The “pumped up” V8 twin-turbo engine produces 40 horsepower more than the engine found in the 750i/Li models to a total of 400 horsepower. The overall combined output is being advertised at 455 horsepower and 516 lb-ft of torque. It runs from 0-62 mph in only 4.7 seconds.

BMW ActiveHybrid 7 has an average fuel consumption of 9.4 liters in the EU cycle (25 MPG US), which corresponds to CO2 emissions of 219 grams per kilometer, another step into the high fuel efficient fleet that BMW is preparing for the future.

[Photos courtesy of Christian Wimmer ]

Before the official launch of the BMW ActiveHybrid 7 in 2010, the new luxury sedan will be exclusively driven by public figures and VIPs, a move that BMW hopes it will draw some attention to their first high-end luxury hybrid sedan.

As the official launch date approaches, the 7 Series hybrid will be available to other customers as well. BMW’s first hybrid performance/luxury sedans will arrive in showrooms in Spring 2011 with a base MSRP of $103,125 including destination and handling for the ActiveHybrid 7 and $107,025 for the long wheelbase ActiveHybrid 7L.

The first production ready BMW hybrid uses a different electric drive setup from the X6 Hybrid and it’s being considered a mild hybrid. The system was developed in collaboration with Mercedes Benz. The upgraded V8 twin-turbo with High Precision Direct Injection runs together, at the same time, with a 3-phase synchronous electric motor which is positioned between the engine and the torque converter. The electric motor generates approximately 20 hp and peak torque of 155 lb-ft.

The “pumped up” V8 twin-turbo engine produces 40 horsepower more than the engine found in the 750i/Li models to a total of 400 horsepower. The overall combined output is being advertised at 455 horsepower and 516 lb-ft of torque. It runs from 0-62 mph in only 4.7 seconds.

BMW ActiveHybrid 7 has an average fuel consumption of 9.4 liters in the EU cycle (25 MPG US), which corresponds to CO2 emissions of 219 grams per kilometer.

[Source: BimmerToday ]

In 2010, BMW will continue to refresh their line-up and introduce some new models and concepts. While several vehicles have been confirmed for launch, there are still others that remain a sworn secret behind the metal gates of the Munich headquarter. But let’s begin with those new models that have been confirmed through official channels and press releases. We’re also going to cover the concepts arena at the end of this article.

Remember, the 2010 roadmap outlined here is based on data collected by us and has not been confirmed by BMW.

First comes the new BMW 5 Series sedan, followed in the second half of 2010 by the the touring version. The 3 Series Coupe and Convertible are also rolling out their now usual life cycle impulse update. An even smaller LCI update would be available on the M3 Coupe.

The facelifted BMW X5 will also be available next spring and sources mention that a new model, xDrive40d will be available as well (we’re working on double checking the news). The second BMW hybrid, ActiveHybrid 7 is due in Spring 2010 as well.

Second generation and redesigned compact SAV, the X3, will debut in the second half of next year. The MINI Crossover will be also launched around the same time. Another exciting vehicle to make its debut next year is the M3 GTS.

There is also another revised model that has been confirmed recently, but unfortunately we cannot disclose it at the moment, our embargo expires later this week and we’ll be able to reveal it. But all we can say is that it will be quite exciting…..

So this is what we have confirmed so far for next year, but let’s take a look at some of the rumors and somewhat confirmed future models.

In the rumor category, we have the MINI by Rolls Royce which is going to be introduced next year as well.

Now, in the concepts arena, BMW is rumored to showcase a 135i Supersport version, with M1-like characteristics. This concept is to be introduced at one of the 2010 auto shows. Project i will also showcase a concept, but it is unclear if it will be a hybrid or an all electric vehicle.

Remember, this is a tentative road map and it is based on information we collected throughout the year and of course, based on some rumors as well. With so many large auto shows coming up in 2010, there might be some more surprises prepared for us by BMW, but you’ll be the first to know as soon as we learn about them.

At the L.A. Auto Show, New York Times sat down with BMW’s Head of head of sales and Marketing, Ian Robertson, and the main topic of discussion were BMW’s first hybrid models: ActiveHybrid 7 and ActiveHybrid X6.

Before we jump into their article, you can read upon our own test drive of the ActiveHybrid 7.

“BMW is a latecomer when it comes to hybrid vehicles, but it making up for that with the ActiveHybrid X6, introduced in the United States last week, and the ActiveHybrid 7, which is due next spring.

Ian Robertson, BMW’s Munich-based board member for sales and marketing, was flanked by both vehicles at the Los Angeles auto show when he presented an upbeat assessment of the company’s prospects, including “a clear increase of retail sales in November,” followed by “further solid growth” in December and “a relatively moderate sales decline in a range of 10 to 15 percent for the whole year of 2009.”

The full hybrid X6 is no economy car: BMW claims it’s the most powerful hybrid in the world, with 485 horsepower from a turbocharged V-8 complemented by two electric motors. The ActiveHybrid X6 can go from zero to 60 miles per hour in 5.4 seconds. The performance emphasis denies the vehicle any kind of fuel economy breakthrough: it achieves 17 miles a gallon in the city and 19 on the highway.

Mr. Robertson repeated the refrain, familiar from several European carmakers, that diesel is a good alternative to hybrids. “Some 60 to 70 percent of our sales in Europe is diesel,” he said. “The American consumer has images of black smoke and poor performance, but that’s not true of modern diesels. We work very hard to communicate the benefits of diesels, but it’s fair to say that the U.S. has been slow in taking up the technology. But we’re making progress — 25 percent of X5 sales in the U.S. last month was diesel.”

Full article continued here

While I was out in the city of Angels for the 2009 LA Auto Show, I took a hot spin in BMW’s new ActiveHybrid 7-Series sedan.

Before I go any further, though, I must tell you…I don’t like hybrid cars very much. I’ve never been a big fan of them because of the politics, big goose egg of a fun factor, and 0% intelligent design. And by intelligent design, I’m not talking about the engine. I’m more or less talking about the style, interior and sporting factors.

With that said, my first impression was, as is my general impression of the new F10/F11 7, that it’s gorgeous. A really beautiful body just enhanced with an engine that will please all of the Hollywood celebrities trying to save the world one luxury car at a time. While there is no doubt that this is a great appeal to most people who want a luxury car with all of the space and room that the 7-Series offers, but with the added comfort of a hybrid motor, without killing any of the BMW spirit.

I first drove the ActiveHybrid X6 -of which you’ll see a review shortly after this one- and knew I absolutely had to drive the ActiveHybrid 7. It’s the same, amazing, 4.4L twin-turbo V8 with the addition of a hybrid electric motor. The 8-speed ZF automatic also remains.

With the electric motor, the V8 is punched up to 465hp and 516lb-ft of torque. That’s up from 400hp and 450lb-ft of torque. I will say one thing, it’s rather evident when you mash the tall, skinny one on the right. The electric motor is a 120-volt lithium-ion battery unit, which helps to propel the car at startup and then shuts off until the car comes to a complete stop. And each time you leave the car in sport mode, the battery recharges itself and takes about 15-20 minutes for nearly a full charge. You can even watch it charge up on the lower portion of the tachometer. You can see it in the above photo where it says READY in light blue with the blue line underneath showing the charge level of the battery.

So, let’s get down to the best points about this car, IT’S FANTASTIC! It has lost no bit of BMW flavor. It’s fast, it’s fun, and it’s a BMW 7-Series. It’ll get you great gas mileage, but more so, it’s going to be fun as hell doing it. So for those of us who were afraid of BMW going green, I’m officially less scared than I was.

I’ll never forget it, I drove it out of the gate at the convention center, and as I was pulling away, I just felt a nice waft of driving pleasure. I was in no hurry, and neither was the car. But, a few traffic lights down, I put into sport mode and out comes the V8’s beautiful rumble. You see, whenever you push the brake pedal and the car comes to a stop, the car automatically turns off the engine and runs the electric motor. You feel nothing, and I’m 100% serious. The whole time I had no idea until I put it into sport mode and heard that old friend come alive again. I punched it off the line, and when BMW says this car will get you to 60 in under 5 seconds, holy hell they mean it. This is no slouch. But wait a second… I thought hybrids weren’t supposed to be fun?!

Well, just when we came up with our own stereotypes about those smug mobiles, BMW comes along and puts us all on our heads.

Still, though, driving around the city, the car was very comfortable and easy to deal with. There was really no instance that made me think I was driving a green car. Or at least a car that’s supposed to be a hybrid car. It was pretty cool.

Sure, it may not be everyone’s flavor. And while I wouldn’t necessarily go out and spend 103,000 dollars on one for myself, I surely won’t be laughing whenever I see Brad Pitt roll up to an award show in one, because I’ll know, with first hand knowledge that this is no save the world machine. It’s the Ultimate Driving Machine with an extra motor to be more environmentally friendly. And there’s nothing wrong with more power and a new outlook on how cars can help out around the world.

If hybrids were more like this, maybe I’d have bought one by now…

See Twitter Opinions from Drivers on the BMW 7 Series Hybrid

BMW announced pricing today for the 2011 ActiveHybrid 7models during their North American debut at the Los Angeles International Auto Show.

BMW’s first hybrid performance/luxury sedans will arrive in showrooms in Spring 2011 with a base MSRP of $103,125 including destination and handling for the ActiveHybrid 7 and $107,025 for the long wheelbase ActiveHybrid 7L.

The BMW ActiveHybrid 7 Sedans feature BMW’s 4.4-liter twin-turbo V8 mated to an 8-speed automatic transmission and hybrid electric motor. The auto stop-start feature improves efficiency without interrupted climate control and other features.

Additional standard equipment includes 19-inch wheels and tires, Alcantara headliner, leather dashboard and ventilated active front seats. The Premium Sound System, Head-up Display and Rear View Camera are also standard on the ActiveHybrid 7 as are Comfort Access, Soft-close doors and Automatic trunkgate closing.

Options and packages include a Camera Package, Driver Assistance Package, BMW Night Vision and Rear Seat Entertainment Package. A Luxury Rear Seating Package is available on the ActiveHybrid 7L. A full list of options to tailor the BMW ActiveHybrid 7 to individual tastes is listed below.

2011 BMW ActiveHybrid 7 packages and optional equipment:
* Camera Package $350
*Side view cameras
* Cold Weather Package $800
* Heated steering wheel & rear seats
* Driver Assistance Package $1,350
*Automatic high beams, lane departure warning,
active blind spot detection
* Rear Seat Entertainment Package $2,200
* Multimedia player and two 8-inch screens
* Luxury Rear Seating Package (750Li only) $3,700
* Rear ventilated, massaging Comfort Seats
* BMW Night Vision $2,600
* 20-inch wheels $1,300
* Power Rear Sunshades $1,000
* Ceramic controls $650
* 6-disc DVD-changer $600
* iPod/USB-Adapter $400
* Satellite radio $350
* Smartphone integration $150

See Twitter Opinions from Drivers

The Los Angeles Auto Show will be the site of three North American vehicle debuts for BMW.  The BMW ActiveHybrid X6, which combines the Sport Activity Coupe concept with full hybrid drive to create the world’s most powerful hybrid passenger vehicle, and the all-new BMW ActiveHybrid 7, the first sport luxury sedan featuring BMW ActiveHybrid technology, will be on display.  The BMW Vision EfficientDynamics concept car will also make its first public showing in the US as well.

The BMW ActiveHybrid X6, which will reach BMW Centers in December 2009, and the ActiveHybrid 7, which arrives in spring 2010, both capitalize on the options offered by combining an industry leading combustion engine with electric motors to create a powertrain with new levels of performance and efficiency.  The BMW Vision EfficientDynamics concept car demonstrates BMW’s EfficientDynamics engineering philosophy – that the pursuit of an enhanced, athletic driving experience while simultaneously lowering the consumption and emissions of each vehicle is attainable.

BMW ActiveHybrid X6
BMW ActiveHybrid technology offers a significant increase in driving dynamics and at the same time reduces fuel consumption by approximately 20 percent versus a comparable vehicle powered by a combustion engine alone. The result is even greater driving pleasure combined with enhanced fuel efficiency and CO2 management, ensuring that the BMW ActiveHybrid X6 is a genuine BMW within the hybrid market.

The drive system featured in the BMW ActiveHybrid X6 consists of a 400 hp twin-turbocharged, High Precision Direct Injection, V8 gasoline engine and two electric synchronous motors delivering 91 hp and 86 hp, respectively. Maximum system output is 480 hp, and peak torque reaches 575 lb-ft.

Precisely controlled interaction of the three power units optimizes the overall efficiency of the BMW ActiveHybrid X6 at all speeds, with acceleration from a standstill to 60 mph in 5.4 seconds. Top speed of the BMW ActiveHybrid X6 is limited electronically to 130 mph, with average fuel consumption in the EU test cycle improved by roughly 20%, and a CO2 emission rating of 231 grams per kilometer.  EPA ratings will be available closer to the market introduction.

BMW’s first hybrid model is able to run exclusively on electric power  – and that is entirely free of CO2 – up to a speed of 37 mph (60 km/h), with the combustion engine being activated automatically whenever required. BMW’s intelligent xDrive all-wheel-drive system distributes the power between the front and rear axles.

The electric motors receive energy from a NiMH high-performance battery pack positioned beneath the floor of the luggage compartment. This battery pack also feeds electric power to the vehicle’s on-board network. Luggage compartment capacity is therefore the same as on the original BMW X6.  On brake application and/or on deceleration, kinetic energy is converted into electrical energy and is stored in the battery pack. To provide this function either one or both of the electric motors act as a generator, quickly feeding electric power generated back into the high-voltage battery.

BMW ActiveHybrid 7
Based on the newest BMW 7 Series, this unique car sets new standards for performance and efficiency in the premium luxury class.  A symbiosis of an upgraded twin-turbo, High Precision Direct Injection, V8 engine with a 3-phase synchronous electric motor gives the BMW ActiveHybrid 7 a combined output of 455 hp and maximum torque of 515 lb-ft. Power is transmitted via an 8-speed automatic transmission with the electric motor positioned between the engine and the torque converter. This electric motor receives its supply of energy from a lithium-ion battery developed specifically for this automobile.

Precisely controlled interaction of both power sources serves to maximize the efficiency and dynamic performance of the BMW ActiveHybrid 7. The result is a unique driving experience that demonstrates the performance capabilities of modern hybrid technology. The BMW ActiveHybrid 7 accelerates to 60 mph in 4.7 seconds, making it the quickest hybrid in the world. At the same time, it delivers fuel economy approximately 15-17% better than the 750i. Official EPA ratings will be available closer to the US market launch.

BMW ActiveHybrid technology also provides new features that promote efficiency while preserving comfort. As an example, the BMW ActiveHybrid 7 is the first BMW with automatic transmission to feature Auto Start Stop to maximize efficiency by avoiding engine idling when stopped. Another advantage is that the climate control system remains fully operational when the vehicle is stopped and the engine is shut down. In this case, power is supplied directly through the 120-volt on-board network powered by the lithium-ion battery.

Special displays in the instrument cluster and the Central Display inform passengers of the operating status of the hybrid components. The ActiveHybrid 7 is distinguished from the 750i by aerodynamically-tuned 19-inch light-alloy Aero wheels, and model designations on the trunk lid, C-pillars, and on the door cutouts. The BMW ActiveHybrid 7 is also available in special Bluewater Metallic exterior paintwork.

Like existing BMW 7 Series models, BMW’s first luxury sedan with ActiveHybrid technology will enter the market in two body variants. The BMW ActiveHybrid 7 L has a wheelbase increased by 5.5″, all of which is devoted to the enhanced comfort of rear-seat passengers. Both models are equipped with a high level of standard equipment and a wide range of options is also are available, thus enabling the ActiveHybrid 7 to be tailored to each customer’s individual tastes and requirements.

BMW Vision EfficientDynamics
The BMW Vision EfficientDynamics concept car demonstrates that the BMW EfficientDynamics objectives are fully compatible when applied to a sports car. Conceived as a 2+2-seater with plug-in full-hybrid technology, this unique car combines the performance of a BMW M vehicle with a standard of fuel efficiency and emission management that exceeds even the current levels achieved by the latest small cars. This outstanding result is made possible by the combination of BMW ActiveHybrid components with an extremely economical combustion engine, and outstanding aerodynamic qualities.

BMW Vision EfficientDynamics is the result of a “clean-sheet” development process to ensure that the correct achievements were made in the areas of efficiency, driving pleasure, technology, and emotional design. BMW Vision EfficientDynamics is the most comprehensive implementation of the EfficientDynamics philosophy seen so far. The powertrain provides a top speed limited electronically to 155 mph, with acceleration to 100 km/h in 4.8 seconds. Average fuel consumption in the EU test cycle is 3.76 liters/100 kilometers, equal to 62.6 mpg, and the CO2 emission rating is 99 grams per kilometer. CO2 emission management is even more outstanding when driving in the all-electric mode after charging the battery from a plug-in source: Taking all emissions in the generation of electricity into account, as prescribed by the EU formula, the car’s emission rating is just 50 grams per kilometer.

The power and performance are made possible by combining a fuel-efficient 3-cylinder turbodiesel engine with one electric motor on each axle. The intelligent combination of these units, together with precisely controlled energy management, simultaneously enhances the dynamic performance and the efficiency of the car. Overall system output is 356 horsepower, and peak torque is 590 lb-ft. The special arrangement of the two motors and diesel engine allows all-wheel drive when driving in all-electric mode. The result is minimum power loss and a harmonious transmission of the power available under all conditions.

In its design, BMW Vision EfficientDynamics for the first time conveys the dynamic look of a BMW sports car to a hybrid vehicle. Developed with decades of experience in Motorsport, the body of this unique sports car is a result of intelligent lightweight technology and aerodynamic efficiency. In the design of the interior, the focus was likewise on both the fascinating driving experience and, in particular, on transparent, hands-on technology and maximum reduction of weight.

First reports of a hybrid model by Rolls-Royce appeared back in September when several car publications published some rumors around a Rolls Royce hybrid. Initially it was being said that the Phantom model is the candidate for the new hybrid, but today, the Autocar returns with new information on the possible hybrid, only this time, the new Ghost is being mentioned.

Since RR Ghost shares the same rear-wheel drive platform as the F01 7 Series model, the implementation of BMW’s ActiveHybrid technology found in the 7 Series can simply the development process.

In the current configuration, Ghost is powered by a  6.2-liter V12 563 horsepower, 575 lb-ft gasoline engine. The hybrid system will add an electric motor in a mild hybrid application, with no electric only propulsion possible. The automatic start-stop system developed by BMW will also come into play to further reduce fuel consumption.

The electric motor, which will be rated at 27 horsepower and 155 pound-feet of torque, will be mated to the Ghost’s 8-speed ZF automatic transmission and run on a small 0.6kW/h lithium-ion battery pack mounted in the trunk. Kinetic energy created during overrun and braking will be collected and stored in the battery.

The Ghost hybrid will forget all about the traditional alternator and the engine will be started by the 20kW electric motor.

Same as the numbers announced for the BMW ActiveHybrid 7, the fuel consumption will be improved by around 15 percent.

No word on when the Rolls Royce Ghost hybrid will be available, but we expect the development and testing process to last a few more years.

[Source: Autocar ]

UK magazine Autocar is one of the first auto publications to sit behind the wheel of the upcoming BMW Active Hybrid 7. The first production ready BMW hybrid uses a different electric drive setup from the X6 Hybrid and it’s being considered a mild hybrid. The system was developed in collaboration with Mercedes Benz. The upgraded V8 twin-turbo with High Precision Direct Injection runs together, at the same time, with a 3-phase synchronous electric motor which is positioned between the engine and the torque converter. The electric motor generates approximately 20 hp and peak torque of 155 lb-ft.

The “pumped up” V8 twin-turbo engine produces 40 horsepower more than the engine found in the 750i/Li models to a total of 400 horsepower. The overall combined output is being advertised at 455 horsepower and 516 lb-ft of torque. It runs from 0-62 mph in only 4.7 seconds (as tested by Autocar )

With these preliminary data, let’s take a look at what Autocar reports:

What’s it like?

Despite the advanced technology and various modifications – all of which add 100kg to the kerb weight – the Active Hybrid 7 instantly feels more muscular than the 750i, thanks to the added power and extra torque.

The upshot is a car that wafts along serenely at town speeds and can be coaxed into a rapid cruise at ridiculously low revs; the combined efforts of the petrol engine and electric motor provide the Active Hybrid 7 with enormous low-end urge and a pleasingly relaxed gait at motorway speeds that is further enhanced by the 7-series’ excellent gearing and overall refinement.

BMW’s claim that the Active Hybrid 7 boasts the performance of a V12 is fully backed up by the claimed 0-60mph time of 4.9sec, which makes it 0.3sec quicker than the 750i.

Given the performance, its combined cycle consumption of 30.1mpg and CO2 rating of 219g/km is outstanding, also bettering the 750i by 5.3mpg and 47g/km respectively in short-wheelbase guise.

The petrol engine shuts down when you brake to a standstill to conserve fuel, leaving you contemplating the silence until you step away from the brake again, at which point the big V8 bursts back to life. There’s no characteristic turbine whirl of the starter motor because there is none. Instead, the automatic stop-start function is achieved via the main electric motor.

Full article at Autocar