More efficient, more assured, more luxurious: The BMW ActiveHybrid 7.
MW has come up with the most luxurious and commanding way yet to experience hybrid technology on four wheels: the BMW ActiveHybrid 7.
Based on the BMW 7 Series, the hybrid Sedan sets the benchmark for efficiency in the luxury class. The combination of a V8 petrol engine with BMW TwinPower Turbo technology and a three-phase synchronous electric motor allows the BMW ActiveHybrid 7 to generate combined system output of 342 kW/465 hp and peak torque of 700 Newton metres (516 lb-ft). The drive system’s power is transferred to the wheels by an eight-speed automatic gearbox.
The electric motor, positioned in a compact space between the combustion engine and the automatic gearbox’s torque converter, sources its energy from a high-performance lithium-ion battery developed specifically for automotive use.
The precisely regulated interplay between the two power sources delivers a dramatic improvement not only in efficiency but also in dynamics and comfort. The BMW ActiveHybrid 7 accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in just 5.1 seconds, yet average fuel consumption in the EU test cycle is a paltry 9.7 litres per 100 kilometres (29.1 mpg imp), while CO
2 emissions are limited to 225 g/km.
The BMW ActiveHybrid 7 boasts a hybrid start-stop function which eliminates periods at idle while stationary at junctions or in traffic tailbacks.
However, the climate control system can continue to work even when the engine is switched off, as – like the electric motor – it is supplied with power by the lithium-ion battery. This energy management concept also allows the deployment of an effective stationary climate control system.
Special displays in the instrument cluster and Control Display keep the driver up to speed on the effectiveness and operation of the hybrid components.
Aerodynamically optimised turbine-style 19-inch light-alloy wheels (designed exclusively for the BMW ActiveHybrid 7) and model badges on the boot lid, the C-pillar rearwards of the side windows and the door sills help to set the hybrid BMW model apart.
The first luxury BMW Sedan with hybrid drive is also available in two body variants.
The extended version of the BMW ActiveHybrid 7 has a 14-centimetre longer wheelbase, and all of the extra length is translated into extra space in the rear compartment.
Visitors to this years Tokyo Motor Show will get to see the BMW Active Hybrid 7 on display at the motor show.
