Spy Photos: BMW X6 Hybrid

[BHR4CE1]

With all the attention focused on the new BMW 7 Series, the other cars being development at the Munich based manufacturer, are receiving less press than usually. For example, for the past few days, the BMW X6 Hybrid has been spotted a few times, in the Mojave Desert, CA.

The BMW X6 is the first hybrid based bimmer and it will go on sale in Europe in 2009. The newer, greener X6 will utilize the previously outlined dual-mode ActiveHybrid system, which has discrete modes for high-torque, low speed driving as well as for high-speed cruises. The system uses a modular hybrid system which can be adapted to many different engine/vehicle combinations, as opposed to a design-specific petrol engine/hybrid combination, which sees wider use in the automotive industry.

BMW says this innovation allows them to tailor the hybrid system to different applications without diluting the unique nature of the original vehicle. No word yet on if they’re able to attain the stated efficiency gain goal of 20% in this iteration. The new hybrid will feature BMW’s version of the modular two-mode hybrid system jointly developed with Daimler and General Motors.

The recent spy photos were taken by the folks at WorldCarFans and Carcentral, and the X6 spotted shows a moderate camouflage, so it is unclear at this moment if the hybrid version will have a slightly modified exterior design. The swelling in the bonnet seems to be temporary, as it’s there for testing purposes and not a massive edema as previously thought.


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[InsidiousSpeed]

Mr bdaw, why don't you consider the BMW X6 Hybrid? :thumb:

[D!Tailed]

The back end sure looks like a Prius!

D!

[chuck92103]

The X6 Hybrid is suppose to have the exhaust hidden unless the car is moving and using gas power. There is a cover that moves to expose the exhaust.

[boxboss]

Does this mean :bmw: will be rethinking it's hydrogen green route?

[bdaw]

Mr bdaw, why don't you consider the BMW X6 Hybrid? :thumb:

While the hybrid technology that is currently on the market is a good step, i still think we're a generation (of vehicles, not people) away from having a truly worth while hybrid on the road. Maybe the X6 will be the one that leads the way!

Other words, my next car is not going to be a hybrid, unless I meet a good sales person who convinces me otherwise.

I believe that the diesel hybrid will be the way of the future. Not the gasoline hybrid

[Gman]

No. BMW will not allow the market to lead without their participation. It makes sense not to fight the way of the market...

Remember Beta Max and VHS?