BMW Wants 1,000 Hybrid Sales In U.S.
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2011 BMW ActiveHybrid 7
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In just a couple of weeks’ time at the 2009 Frankfurt Auto Show BMW will unveil two new hybrid vehicles based on its 7-Series flagship sedan and sporty X6 crossover. They differ from most rival hybrid models in that they combine a thumping V-8 engine with an electric motor in order to create a stunning performer rather than a leisurely fuel-sipper.
The 2011 ActiveHybrid 7, based on the 7-Series, outputs a healthy 455 horsepower and 516 pound-feet of torque, while the 2011 ActiveHybrid X6 becomes the world’s most powerful hybrid thanks to its 480 horsepower and 575 pound-feet of torque output. While the performance is likely to be out of this world, fuel economy is only expected to be about 15% and 20% better than regular V-8 versions of the 7-Series and X6 respectively.
This is a strategy BMW believes suits its luxury customers, especially in North America where the automaker expects to sell 1,000 hybrids in its first year. The information comes from BMW’s U.S. chief Jim O'Donnell, who explained that American luxury customers still want a V-8.
O'Donnell went on to reveal that the new hybrid models are just a small part of BMW’s overall plan to become greener. In addition to making its cars lighter with more aluminium and carbon-fiber, BMW intends to implement more of its EfficientDynamics technologies as well as introduce more diesel models--especially for its 5-Series sedan and X SUVs and crossovers.
The ActiveHybrid X6 will hit showrooms in December, followed by the ActiveHybrid 7 in April next year.
[AutoWeek]
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Have an opinion?Join the conversation!
By Alister Posted: 9/2/2009 12:12am PDT
Talk about a Bunch of Money Wasted....
By Vitamin C Posted: 12/2/2009 1:12am PST
However, I am a little bit concerned about price. The large cost difference between hybrids and traditional vehicles will probably stop many consumers.
The US Hybrid Electric Vehicles (HEVs) market has been booming since 1999, but demand is forecasted to be most significant in China. If the price remains prohibitively high, the total market size will be hard to expand.
Have an opinion?Join the conversation!