Appealing for the green and pocket: BMW X6 activehybrid

In late 2009, BMW introduced an X6 featuring a version of the Global Hybrid Cooperation hybrid power train, popularly known as the two-mode hybrid system. This car was confirmed as being called the BMW ActiveHybrid X6, and it is the world’s most powerful hybrid vehicle, it will not be sold in the UK. The production […]

In late 2009, BMW introduced an X6 featuring a version of the Global Hybrid Cooperation hybrid power train, popularly known as the two-mode hybrid system. This car was confirmed as being called the BMW ActiveHybrid X6, and it is the world’s most powerful hybrid vehicle, it will not be sold in the UK. The production vehicle was unveiled alongside a 7-series hybrid at the 2009 Frankfurt Auto Show. The ActiveHybrid X6 went on sale in December 2009 in the US market with a base price of US$89,765.

The drive system featured in the BMW ActiveHybrid X6 consists of a 300 kW (407 hp) V8 power unit with BMW TwinPower Turbo Technology and two electric engines developing 67 kW (91 hp) and, respectively, 63 kW (86 hp.) Maximum system output is 357 kW (485 hp), peak torque is 780 Newton-meters (575 lb-ft.)

BMW ActiveHybrid technology offers the driver three significant options: to drive under electric power alone, to use the power of the combustion engine, or to benefit from the combination of both drive modes for short periods of maximum acceleration, using the 485 maximum. Driving completely free of CO2 in the electric mode is possible up to a speed of 37 mph (60 km/h). The hybrid also employs stop-start technology and other energy saving measures to help improve efficiency. The core-vehicle is however very heavy and the petrol power unit limits the extent to which fuel consumption can be reduced in absolute terms. The Turbo-Diesel models in the X6 range use less fuel, for example. I’m glad to say as a fan of diesel. Two diesel variants have been announced, and are expected to constitute as much as 90% of sales volume in European markets. The models are called the xDrive30d and xDrive 35d, respectively. They are powered by BMW’s 3.0-litre turbodiesel engine (in its sequential twin-turbocharged variant for the xDrive35d), and produce 235 PS (173 kW) in the xDrive30d and 286 PS (210 kW) in the xDrive 35d version. The second of these power units will form the basis of BMW’s Diesel launch in all 50 states in late-2008.

Well the X6 will see some contender soon from Honda, Land Rover and many more -so brace yourselves.