Introducing BMW’s first luxury sport sedan featuring ActiveHybrid technology.
Woodcliff Lake, New Jersey, January 1, 2010… On the heels of the ActiveHybrid X6, BMW announced the production version of the all-new BMW ActiveHybrid 7 at the Frankfurt Auto Show (IAA) last September. The 2011 BMW ActiveHybrid 7 will reach American shores in the second quarter of 2010. Based on the newest BMW 7 Series, this unique car sets new standards for performance and efficiency in the premium luxury class.
A symbiosis of an upgraded twin-turbo, High Precision Direct Injection, V8 engine with a 3-phase synchronous elec¬tric motor gives the BMW ActiveHybrid 7 a combined output of 455 hp and maximum torque of 515 lb-ft. Power is transmitted via an 8-speed automatic transmission with the electric motor positioned between the engine and the torque converter. This electric motor receives its supply of energy from a lithium-ion battery developed specifically for this automobile.
Precisely controlled interaction of both power sources serves to maximize the efficiency and dynamic performance of the BMW ActiveHybrid 7. The result is a unique driving experience that demonstrates the performance capabilities of modern hybrid technology. The BMW ActiveHybrid 7 accelerates to 60 mph in 4.7 seconds making it the quickest hybrid in the world. At the same time, it delivers fuel economy approximately 15-17% better than the 750i. Official EPA ratings will be available closer to the US market launch.
BMW ActiveHybrid technology also provides new features that promote efficiency while preserving comfort. As an example, the BMW ActiveHybrid 7 is the first BMW with automatic transmission to feature Auto Start Stop to maximize efficiency by avoiding engine idling when stopped. Another advantage is that the air conditioning and ventilation system remains fully operational when the vehicle is stopped and the engine is shut down. In this case, power is supplied directly through the 120-volt on-board network powered by the lithium-ion battery.
Special displays in the instrument cluster and the Central Display inform the passengers of the degree of efficiency and the current operating status of the hybrid components. The ActiveHybrid 7 is distinguished from the 750i by aerodynamically-tuned ten-spoke 19-inch light-alloy Aero wheels, and model designations on the trunk lid, C-pillars, and on the door cutouts. The BMW ActiveHybrid 7 is also available in special Bluewater Metallic exterior paintwork.
Like existing BMW 7 Series models, BMW’s first luxury sedan with ActiveHybrid technology will enter the market in two body variants. The extended version of BMW ActiveHybrid 7 has a wheelbase increased by 5.5", all of which is devoted to the enhanced comfort of rear-seat passengers. Both models are equipped with a high level of standard equipment and a wide range of options is also are available, thus enabling the ActiveHybrid 7 to be tailored the customers individual taste and requirements.
BMW ActiveHybrid: A key element of the BMW EfficientDynamics philosophy.
The BMW ActiveHybrid 7 takes an innovative approach to ensure outstanding efficiency in the segment. At the same time it offers dynamic driving characteristics at a level that one would expect from The Ultimate Driving Machine. BMW ActiveHybrid is an important element within the BMW EfficientDynamics philosophy meant to offer technologies able to significantly reduce fuel consumption and emissions on every new model while enhancing driving performance.
BMW uses hybrid technology because it can make an effective contribution to the reduction of fuel consumption and emissions. As a rule, the savings potential of hybrid technology increases with the power of the combustion engine interacting with the system. In the case of the BMW ActiveHybrid 7 precise coordination of the electric motor and the V8 serves to optimize the efficiency of the combustion engine under all operating conditions.
Intelligent energy management for generation, storage and use of electric power.
The ActiveHybrid concept stores energy in a compact, high-performance lithium-ion battery. The processes of charging the battery, supplying power to the electric motor, and electric ancillaries are managed by a control unit developed specifi¬cally for the BMW ActiveHybrid 7.
When the driver requires only a small amount of brake force, the system uses only the drag of the electric generator (motor). The mechanical brakes are activated only when the driver presses down the brake pedal harder for more stopping power. Dynamic Stability Control controls the balance of electrical and mechanical braking so adeptly that the driver does not even perceive the transition from braking with electric power to braking with the mechanical brake system.
Twin-turbocharged V8 gasoline engine with High Precision Direct Injection.
The combustion engine is the innovative reverse-flow V8 introduced in the BMW X6. The world’s first V8 gasoline engine with two turbochargers in the V-section between the two rows of cylinders develops power throughout the entire engine speed range. The spontaneous and direct response of this engine results from its compact configuration, which allows the shortest exhaust manifolds.
Displacing 4.4 liters, the engine delivers its maximum output of 440 hp between 5,500 and 6,400 rpm. Peak torque of 480 lb-ft is maintained from 1,800 to 4,500 rpm, with High Precision Direct Injection ensuring precise supply of fuel at all times. Piezo-injectors positioned in the combustion chambers between the valves ensure a smooth, efficient and clean combustion process. The engine fulfils the European EU5 standard as well as the ULEV II standards in the US.
Compared with the engine featured in the BMW 750i/Li, this version has been modified in numerous respects to the specific requirements of the BMW ActiveHybrid 7. There is no starter, alternator, or belt drive for the air-conditioning compressor and hydraulic pump. The cooling system has been modified for hybrid operation. The result is remarkable power from idle. The response of the engine is enhanced by the electric motor with its additional torque. The direct response to the accelerator pedal is impressive when compared either with conventional 7 Series models or existing hybrid vehicles already in the market. Acceleration to 60 mph in 4.7 seconds ranks it among the fastest and most thoroughbred sports cars in the world. Top speed of BMW ActiveHybrid 7 is electronically limited to 150 mph.
| 2011 BMW ActiveHybrid 7 Specifications | |
| Body | |
| Wheelbase | 120.9 in |
| Chassis | |
| Brakes (Front) | Vent. Disc / 374 / 14.7 - / mm / inch |
| Brakes (Rear) | Vent. Disc / 370 / 14.6 - / mm / inch |
| Wheels (F) | 8.5J x 19 Light alloy |
| Wheels (R) | 9.5J x 19 Light alloy |
| Tires Front | 245/45 R19 98Y RSC AS |
| Tires Rear | 275/40 R19 101Y RSC AS |
| Drivetrain | |
| Final Drive Ratio | 2.81 |
| Engine | |
| Type: | V 90 / 8 / 4 VANOS |
| Bore X Stroke | 3.50 X 3.48 (in) |
| Engine & Transmission | |
| Displacement cu in (cc): | 268.2 in |
| Power bhp (kW) at RPM: | 440 / 5500-6400 |
| Torque lb-ft (Nm) at RPM: | 480 / 1800-4500 |
| Exterior | |
| Length | 199.8 in |
| Width | 74.9 in |
| Height | 58.5 in |
| Curb Weight | 4795 lbs |
| Performance | |
| Acceleration (0-100 km/h) | 5.0 s |
| Acceleration 0-60 mph s: | 4.7 s |
