Electrifying BMW Concept X6 ActiveHybrid
There was a special treat in store for visitors to this year’s International Motor Show in Frankfurt. BMW showed its Concept X6 ActiveHybrid – an innovation that brings hybrid technology to the new Sports Activity Coupe.
When it comes to driving dynamics, the X6 ActiveHybrid sets new standards, compared to conventional hybrid technology. In this BMW concept vehicle, high efficiency seamlessly accompanies high driving pleasure.
The Concept X6’s designation “ActiveHybrid” says it all. This technology is a critical aspect of BMW’s EffcientDynamics strategy, which aims to lower fuel consumption and emissions without reducing driving pleasure.
The current generation of conventional cars already demonstrates that higher output can be compatible with lower fuel consumption. This is no illusion. With ActiveHybrid, BMW takes the next step on the road to reduce CO2 emissions.
“Hybrid,” of course, refers to a combination of different things. In reference to a car, it denotes the use of two different power systems, usually a combustion engine and an electric motor. BMW’s interpretation of a hybrid goes farther, however, to include the vehicle’s intelligent management of energy. By applying a kind of modular principle, BMW integrates the specific hybrid components that are best suited to each model in order to optimize fuel efficiency and heighten driving pleasure.
The technology, design and handling of the BMW Concept X6 ActiveHybrid combine to create a harmonious whole. The hybrid drive acts in concert not just with a body designed for sporty driving, but also with xDrive, BMW’s intelligent all-wheel-drive system. Throughout, the form reflects the characteristic BMW X design. A muscular appearance and the dynamic wedge form are reminiscent of a coupe.
The Concept X6 ActiveHybrid is immediately recognizable by the modified front apron and the powerdome on the hood. It also proudly displays illuminated “BMW ActiveHybrid” lettering, which makes for an impressive calling card, particularly after dark. At the rear, the BMW Concept X6 ActiveHybrid has a clever touch: a movable underbody guard that covers the tailpipes when the vehicle is in electric – i.e., combustion-free – mode. In short, every aspect of this vehicle’s stylish appearance promises an exceptional driving experience. And needless to say, the Concept X6 ActiveHybrid fulfills that promise brilliantly.
Traditional hybrid technology alone could not have achieved this promise. To reach this goal, BMW, General Motors and Daimler- Chrysler joined forces in a project called “Global Hybrid Cooperation,” in order to develop a completely new approach. Not surprisingly, BMW is focusing on driving pleasure. The result is the “two-mode active transmission.” This combines planetary gear sets and two high-performance electric motors to provide substantial improvements in both fuel economy and performance, in both low- and high-speed driving.
The planetary gear sets allow variable distribution of power between the electrical motors and the combustion engine. The system alternates between two modes according to need: one is used for starting and driving at low speeds; the other for higher speeds. This maximizes power and efficiency in both situations. Within each operating mode, several gears are available to match the vehicle’s speed and power requirements – similar to a traditional transmission.
The electric motors provide power during acceleration, and recover energy during braking. Thus, the BMW Concept X6 ActiveHybrid always has the best of both worlds. The vehicle can be driven at low speeds exclusively by the electric motors; it can be powered by the combustion engine alone; or it can use a combination of both. Whichever mode is chosen, this high-powered vehicle operates with maximum efficiency in any driving situation.
This is just where other hybrid systems fall short of the mark. True, they provide economical driving, but only at lower speeds. Even at high speeds, much of the power must be routed electrically, rather than mechanically. And the additional batteries and electrical components required for this add substantial weight, which negatively affects the responsiveness and handling.
The BMW Concept X6 ActiveHybrid, on the other hand, minimizes this effect. The BMW’s hybrid function improves performance and efficiency at both high and low speeds. The driver senses excellent feedback, responsiveness and dynamics, easily matching or exceeding that of normal drive systems. The only surprise is the fuel consumption and emission figures, which are up to 20 percent better than those of a comparable vehicle with conventional drive.
With this hybrid concept vehicle, BMW sets a new milestone in its EfficientDynamics strategy. This model is not destined to gather dust as just a concept car, but will be further developed for series production. The look of the series-production version of the BMW Concept X6 ActiveHybrid will be as sporty as its performance, skimping only on fuel – not on driving pleasure. “The BMW of hybrid vehicles,” as its developers aptly describe it, is about to do what electrical power has always done: advance mankind.
Source: BMW Magazine