Geneva Preview: Bmw 5-Series ActiveHybrid Concept
By Andrew C., 26 Aug, 2010. 0 Comments
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Days before the unveiling at the Geneva Motor Show, BMW made a grand presentation of the 5-Series ActiveHybrid Concept. Since last August, rumors had been heard about this car, which slots in between the previously released 5-Series Sedan and the still-to-come 5-Series Touring. Featured on the hybrid 5-Series Concept is a TwinPower Turbo straight-six gasoline engine, combined with an eight-speed automatic transmission and an electric drive.
BMW's concept is unlike the current ActiveHybrids that have been presented in the past. It has a new drivetrain that appears to be a preview of the next-generation technology, with its BMW-exclusive intelligent interaction solution. The electric motor is powered by a high-voltage battery pack and produces up to 40 kW (54 hp).
An automatic clutch connects the electric motor to the gasoline engine, resulting to a high torque that becomes available when required. The hybrid system also serves as an energy recovery system when the brakes are being applied. More fuel is saved due to the hybrid-based Auto Start Stop function and the same climate control function featured on the BMW ActiveHybrid 7.
Another exclusive feature of this concept is its ability to adapt to current as well as future driving conditions. The car prepares for a change in requirements when it reads data that could indicate changes in the exterior and in the driver's own "wishes". The system interprets the data, which refer to engine and chassis management as well as those saved in the navigation system on the route chosen by the drive. Since these are abstract elements, it's mindboggling how BMW intends to interpret the data, especially those that pertain to the driver's "wishes".
Nevertheless, here is BMW's attempt to explain it: "Should the system determine, for example, that the autobahn ahead is about to lead downhill, the charge level of the high-voltage battery is intelligently controlled in advance to regain brake energy upfront with maximum efficiency."
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