The new 7-series hybrid joins the previous Vision EfficientDynamics diesel-hybrid based on the X5 and the original BMW Concept X6 ActiveHybrid from 2007 in BMW’s stable of next-generation powertrain concepts. Though the car isn’t expected to reach the marketplace until 2010, it’s already being viewed as a competitor to Mercedes-Benz’s upcoming S400 BlueHYBRID sedan.

Co-developed drivetrains at the heart of both
While Mercedes’ S400 BlueHYBRID features an electric drive system mated to a 3.5-litre V6 powerplant, BMW’s new Concept 7-Series ActiveHybrid is based around the 4.4-litre V8 750i model. The concept car features the standard 303kW and 600Nm V8 powerplant mated to a 15kW and 210Nm electric motor. Other standard hybrid features, such as regenerative braking, automatic stop-start and optimized aerodynamics, are also present on the 7-series ActiveHybrid concept.

The new 7-series hybrid will feature BMW’s version of the modular two-mode hybrid system jointly developed with Daimler, Chrysler and General Motors - a version of which resides inside the upcoming S400 BlueHYBRID as well. The BMW system features a pair of electric motors located within the transmission which can provide electric only drive at low speeds or act as a performance booster at high load.

Improved performance and efficiency
BMW and Mercedes’ interpretation of the value of hybrid-drive technologies for their vehicles isn’t the Toyota Prius-model of high efficiency at the cost of form and function. Instead, it’s viewed as a way to enhance both performance and efficiency with no perceptual difference to a standard car as far as the driver is concerned.

Compared with the non-hybrid model, the new ActiveHybrid is said to improve fuel-economy by up to 15%. Mercedes, meanwhile, claims that its S400 BlueHYBRID runs 21% more efficiently than the standard S350. Both cars will feature lithium-ion battery systems, though Mercedes is planning to be the first carmaker in the world to market with such a system in a mass-produced vehicle.

This marriage of performance and efficiency in a transparent package could be the next wave in the implementation of hybrid vehicles, even as cars like General Motors’ Volt plug-in electric vehicle bring the technology and efficiency aspects to the forefront.

While the Paris show car remains a concept only, the production 7-series hybrid is expected to go on sale late next year or in early 2010 in Europe and the United States, with other markets likely to follow sometime after.

BMW 7 Series ActiveHybrid Concept gallery

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