2010 BMW ActiveHybrid 7
Following the launch of the BMW ActiveHybrid X6 will be a hybrid version of the 7 Series luxury sedan, which will go on sale in the spring of 2010. Unlike the X6’s full hybrid setup, the ActiveHybrid 7 will feature a mild hybrid system. That means the efficiency gains are smaller, but BMW says there will still be a 15% gain in fuel economy. The 750i gets 17 mpg, so the hybrid should bump that to 19 or 20 mpg. It will also feature an auto start-stop function that will shut the engine off when at a standing stop. The company will offer both a standard version and a long-wheelbase model of the ActiveHybrid 7. There are also specially designed wheels that add some aerodynamic efficiency.
Of course, buyers of this car — the 750i starts at $80,300 — likely won’t care about the efficiency of the ActiveHybrid, which makes us wonder why it needs to exist. While the ActiveHybrid X6 will be the most powerful hybrid on the market and is aimed at driving enthusiasts, the 7 isn’t the same package. Sure, BMW says it’ll put out 455 hp and 516 pounds-feet of torque, but no one is thrashing a 7 Series with regularity. Instead, the ActiveHybrid 7 will top the lineup in price and will likely be more of a status symbol.
More photos below.
