BMW Concept 5-series ActiveHybrid set for Geneva debut

Following up on the their earlier efforts at hybrid technology, namely the ActiveHybrid X6 and the ActiveHybrid 7, BMW is set to have twin propulsion powering the F10 5-series as well. Pencilled for a Geneva Motor Show 2010 debut, the lengthily-named BMW Concept 5-series ActiveHybrid features a twin-turbo straight six teamed up with a 40kW (54hp) electric motor, and an 8-speed automatic transmission.

Where the ActiveHybrid versions of X6 and 7-series received the 4.4-litre N63B44 twin-turbo V8 petrol engine, the ActiveHybrid 5 (ed: We know BMW will eventually use this name when it goes to production, so we shall take some liberties here) will instead be getting a twin-turbo straight six. Official BMW literature has yet to identify the engine, but Autoblog.com claims that it is the 2,979cc N55B30 direct injection motor that powers the F10 535i.

To help lower urban consumption and emission figures, BMW has engineered the ActiveHybrid 5 Concept to be capable of all-electric motoring besides being equipped with Auto Start/Stop.

Mechanically, the 54hp electric motor sits in between the petrol engine and the 8-speed auto, with an automatic clutch serving as connection between the two engines. A high-voltage battery pack powers the motor, which doubles up as a generator in overrun and braking. It is encased in a special high-strength casing near the rear-axle to satisfy Munich’s chronic obssession with weight distribution.

N55B30 mates with electric motor here.

As you would expect the electronics that go into this car makes for lengthy reading. We’ll leave it to you to decide if it’s desirable, but the energy management system of the ActiveHybrid 5 Concept goes as far as trying to predict future driving conditions using data from the engine & chassis electronics, driving aid sensors, and even the navigational computer. Based on its prediction, the system pre-coordinates energy allocation to various systems to best suit the predicted driving conditions. BMW claims that this feature is able to extend cruising range on electric power by up to 30%.

Still rear wheel drive. Still very much BMW.

KON

See also: Autoworld Blog >> Blog Archive >> BMW 5-series (F10) unveiled