BMW ActiveHybrid 7

The new model sets itself apart with lower fuel consumption and emissions, as well as innovative auxiliary functions. This latest evolution stage uses BMW TwinPower Turbo technology with a six-cylinder in-line petrol engine that replaces the eight-cylinder engine used up previously in the 320bhp 740Li.

Other hybrid components include the 55 hp synchronous electric motor, the hybrid-spec eight-speed automatic transmission, a lithium-ion high-performance battery and power electronics underpinning intelligent energy management.

With system output of 354 hp and peak torque of 450 Nm, acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h is done in just 5.7 seconds. At the same time, the car posts an average fuel economy of 6.8 L/100 km and CO2 emissions of 158 g/km. The new BMW ActiveHybrid 7 can also run purely on electric power with a maximum of 210 Nm of torque on tap and can travel at a speed of 60km/h based purely on its electric drive.

The new BMW ActiveHybrid 7 Series is further packed with BMW’s TwinPower Turbo technology featuring twin-scroll turbocharging, High Precision Direct Petrol Injection, Double-Vanos variable camshaft timing , VALVETRONIC fully variable valve timing and a highly sophisticated eight-speed automatic transmission.

The car comes equipped with an Auto Start-Stop function. The standard specification also includes Brake Energy Regeneration, meaning that power for the vehicle electrical system is only generated during overrun and braking phases where possible.

The extended ECO PRO functionality includes the new coasting mode. In coasting mode, the BMW ActiveHybrid 7 is subject to a far lower rate of deceleration as it freewheels along the road with no engine braking effect and minimal fuel consumption.

Intelligent lightweight design is integrated into all areas of BMW vehicle development work and into all components, from the body and engine to the suspension. Besides high and ultra-high-tensile steels and plastics, state-of the-art composite materials are also employed. Finally, increased use of aluminium components in the engine and suspension systems as well as for the bodywork has also further reduced the weight of the relevant assemblies.

The aerodynamics of the new BMW ActiveHybrid 7 has been finely honed in a state-of-the-art wind tunnel bringing along with it acoustic comfort and roadholding. In particular, the vehicles underside plays an instrumental role in minimising lift forces, as the aerodynamically efficient design with streamlined panelling provides a high degree of sealing. Also, the front aprons are designed to create an “air curtain” effect which reduces turbulence around the front wheels – again reducing drag. The aerodynamically designed wheel arches and various air deflectors likewise have a fuel-saving effect.

Apart from the latest Efficient Dynamics features, the new BMW ActiveHybrid 7 also comes equipped with various BMW ConnectedDrive technology including, the Anti-dazzle High-Beam Assistant; the Mobile Office and voice control; and a new-generation Professional navigation system with 3-D display, just to name a few.

The new BMW ActiveHybrid 7 will be available at Performance Motors’ showrooms from 5 October 2012. Prices start from $425,800.

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