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We've already had a look at the new BMW 7 Series, which will make its debut at the Paris International Motor Show. Alongside the production version of its latest large car the Bavarian firm will demonstrate its development work with hybrids in the shape of the Concept 7 Series ActiveHybrid. The show car represents the latest developments in BMW's EfficientDynamics program and previews a petrol-electric vehicle that will be launched in 2009.
BMW's goal is to combine the performance expected of the marque with an improvement in fuel economy and a reduction in emissions. Based on the 750i, the Concept 7 Series uses a petrol-fuelled V8 and an electric motor integrated with the automatic transmission. According to the manufacturer's claims many of today's hybrid systems only prove effective in the city while this drivetrain will also provide an advantage on the open road.
Full technical details have not been released but the layout and operating principles are similar to those of the Mercedes-Benz S 400 BlueHYBRID unveiled last week. The main differences are that the BMW carries the lithium-ion battery in the boot (rather than under the bonnet) and the concept is based on the top of the range model. Apparently the Concept 7 Series offers a fifteen percent improvement in fuel economy, which equates to 28.6mpg on the combined cycle.
Expect more details to be revealed when the Paris motor show opens on 2nd October. The first production BMW hybrid will be launched in 2009.
John Lambert - 23 Sep 2008
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