BMW first revealed that its X6 SUV would possibly be available as a hybrid model when it rolled out the X6 ActiveHybrid concept vehicle at last year’s Frankfurt Motor Show. The show car’s advanced hybrid drivetrain was claimed to offer fuel consumption and emission ratings of up to 20% better than a comparable car with conventional drivetrain, yet still enable the performance and driving dynamics expected of a BMW.

Prototype versions of a new production version have since been spotted on both sides of the Atlantic, revealed in these latest spy photos.
 
Unique styling planned for X6 hybrid
The images show the vehicle in moderate camouflage, revealing the general outline of the hybrid model will adhere closely to the lines of the standard car. Previous prototypes were seen sporting an oversized bulge on the bonnet, most likely to accommodate the new hybrid hardware and test equipment. The latest prototype looks much more like the standard X6, although a small bump remains and mimics the design previewed on the concept.

People buying hybrid vehicles not only want the peace of mind that they’re doing their part to help the environment but they also want people around them to know it. That’s why the new X6 hybrid will likely feature slightly different styling to the regular models, including the small bonnet bulge and possibly new bumpers and a dedicated fuel consumption display screen inside.

This strategy has worked wonders for the Toyota Prius, which went on to sell almost 140,000 units in the U.S. last year whereas the similarly efficient Camry Hybrid sold just under 40,000.

Two-mode hybrid system developed with Daimler and General Motors
The new hybrid will feature BMW’s version of the modular two-mode hybrid system jointly developed with Daimler and General Motors, and will first be offered in the 7-series flagship saloon at the end of next year. This means the hybrid X6 won’t be launched until sometime in 2010 in overseas markets.
   
The design uses twin electric motors which can either be used to boost acceleration, charge the batteries or enable electric-only drive at low speeds. The two-mode active transmission is based on an ECVT electrical continuously variable transmission. The two operating modes, one of which has been optimised for low, the other for high speeds, are supplemented by fixed transmission ratios.

By combining the always-available torque of the twin electric motors with the top-end power of the combustion engine, the two-mode hybrid design is ideal for getting a larger mass like the X6 moving from a standstill efficiently and maintaining cruising speeds with minimal effort. The continuously variable transmission enhances efficiency throughout the range by ensuring optimum gear ratios no matter the engine speed.

BMW Australia is yet to confirm the local launch of a hybrid X6 but as with most BMW models local sales usually occur within months after the cars first go on sale overseas.

BMW X6 ActiveHybrid spy shots

• Alfa Romeo to enter premium compact SUV market
• Aptera Typ-1 pushes design and efficiency to new ground
• Aston Martin to develop production V12-powered Vantage
• Audi A6 range gets updates for 2009
• Audi developing production TT Clubsport speedster

Comments (0)

Name

Email

Comment

smaller | bigger

I have read and agree to the Terms of Usage.

Write the displayed characters

Add Comment

Share this Story