X5 Diesel Hybrid ETA?

[ftgambit]

Anyone know if thats ever been mentioned by Bayerische HQ I can't see any downside to producing one other than driving by gas stations more often without stopping, and tons of upsides, quicker acceleration even more torque than diesel alone, amazing range w/ an 8spd tranny, super green.

[Lawfarm]

I've been curious as to why there aren't really any diesel-electric hybrids from any major manufacturers (that I'm aware of). I think two significant reasons might be: 1) the significantly greater amount of power necessary to start a diesel (because of the higher compression ratio) as compared to a gasoline engine (although this still shouldn't be an issue if the engine is equipped with a large starter/generator); and, 2) the fact that gasoline engines are in some respects better at efficiently handling temperature changes from start/stop operation.

[JCL]

There are quite a few diesel electric hybrids out now that are not passenger cars. Volkswagen has announced their diesel electric hybrid Jetta for 2012. Those are full hybrids, though. BMW is building a very mild hybrid with the X6, to the extent that the fuel efficiency is worse than the 35i, let alone the 35d. BMW seems to just want the publicity of claiming they have a hybrid, not the potential benefits of a full hybrid.

A diesel hybrid designed more for fuel efficiency wouldn't have the normal gasoline/diesel engine plus an electric motor, rather it would have a larger electric motor, with a small diesel to supplement it for extended range.

[NotEntirelyJack]

Volvo is coming out with one next year.

Volvo Diesel Hybrid — Autoblog Green

[ftgambit]

Volvo and VW will definitely make it tough to ignore it, MB and Audi would make it impossible, the sooner the better 50-60mpg luxury rides should be no big deal,lol!

[JCL]

Originally Posted by ftgambit

BMW needs to get on the ball with that

There are. They announced a new division (BMW i), and the first two vehicles are in testing. The i8 is a diesel hybrid, planned for 2013 release

http://www.xoutpost.com/bmw-sav-foru...and-bmw-i.html

http://www.xoutpost.com/bmw-sav-foru...-spyshots.html