BMW introduces the 2010 X6 ActiveHybrid...

[Stevev]

I thought I would share this article w/ you guys and gals...


BMW Introduces the 2010 X6 ActiveHybrid
Meet the world’s most powerful hybrid.


The very near future will be filled with more fuel-efficient vehicles – that’s a given. However, if they wear the BMW roundel badge on their hoods, they’ll still be some of the most fun-to-drive vehicles available. The 2010 X6 ActiveHybrid is one amazing example.
The BMW X6 ActiveHybrid sport activity coupe made its debut at the world’s most important auto show, the Frankfurt Motor Show, in September. It arrives in U.S. BMW dealerships in early 2010. The driving experience promises to be as astounding as the technology.
BMW has already proven that fuel-efficiency and driving pleasure are not mutually exclusive. Consider the BMW 328i models that zip from zero-to-60 mph in just over six seconds, yet return up to 30 mpg, the 335d clean-diesel model that cranks out 265 hp and a massive 425 lb/ft of torque and returns up to 37 mpg and now the upcoming X6 ActiveHybrid that’s nearly as powerful as the X6 M, yet uses less fuel.
The operative word in the X6 ActiveHybrid’s model’s technology vocabulary is “dual.” A new dual-mode continuously variable transmission deftly blends the power of a dual-turbo V8 and dual electric motors. The 4.4-liter V8 is itself a massively powerful machine, providing 400 hp and 450 lb/ft of torque on its own. Combined, the hybrid system yields maximum system output of 480 hp with peak torque reaching 575 lb/ft.
What would you think of zero-to-60 mph in 5.4 seconds with 20 percent better economy (in European tests) than the gasoline X6 xDrive50i model? With all that torque, the X6 ActiveHybrid is going to feel even quicker. Part of the reason – aside from the high torque itself – is that the BMW hybrid system uses two electric motors to provide a “boost” to the gasoline engine through the dual-mode transmission. Electric motors develop their peak torque instantaneously.
You are going to feel like rocket boosters kicked in when you need to kick-down to pass a tractor-trailer in the X6 ActiveHybrid. Thanks to the two-mode transmission, electrically generated drive power reduces the power output needed from the gasoline engine when driving at steady highway speeds. That is a major difference from some other hybrids on the market, which gain little or no benefit from electric-drive on the highway.
There’s another benefit of the two-mode transmission: The BMW ActiveHybrid X6 can run on its electric motors alone at low speeds, making it a zero-emission vehicle under such conditions. Top speed in the electric mode is 37 mph with a maximum range of 1.6 miles. After that, the gasoline engine joins in.
Power reaches the road through BMW’s famed xDrive all-wheel drive system. Electronically controlled, variable distribution of drive power front-to-rear gives the X6 ActiveHybrid superior traction and very sporty handling – not to mention an advantage in slippery weather.
You’ll benefit from BMW hybrid technology not only when you step on the gas, but also when you step on the brake. “Regenerative braking” recaptures energy that would normally be lost as wasted heat through the brakes, converts it to electricity and sends it to the battery pack. It works like this: When you brake, the electric motors, which are not needed at that moment to provide power, act as generators, and the wheels’ slowing rotation is used to generate power. Regenerative braking helps to slow the vehicle, too, which can reduce wear on the brakes.
BMW even uses stoplights to reduce fuel consumption. Auto Start Stop technology turns the engine off when you are stopped for a predetermined measure of time. Touch the accelerator pedal, and the electric motors instantly accelerate the X6 ActiveHybrid, silently and seamlessly turning on the gas engine when more power is needed. You’ll wonder why all vehicles don’t have this feature. (They may in the near future.)
That’s the power story. The X6 models have been defying expectations for handling, and the X6 ActiveHybrid will be no exception. The chassis and suspension of the X6 ActiveHybrid is largely the same as the technology already featured on the X6 xDrive50i. Standard wheels are 20-inches though 19-inch wheels with all-season tires are available, too. In each case, the tires feature run-flat technology.
Externally, minor details will differentiate the X6 ActiveHybrid from its siblings including a special “powerdome” hood and specific badges. The vehicle’s stunning performance will be enough of a calling card.