Being a preview of the production car that will come to market in Spring of 2012, the ActiveHybrid 5 Concept unveiled in 2010 at Geneva Motor Show, was a real hit at that time. Well now, after almost a year, the production model shows its face ahad its soft launch later this year and you can see it here because we have some spy shots taken in a parking lot.
As a reminder, BMW Concept 5 Series ActiveHybrid made its debut with a 3.0 liter straight-six N55 gasoline engine with TwinPower Turbo technology, eight-speed automatic transmission, and electric drive. Developing a maximum output of 40 kW, the electric motor offers a boost function.
Beside this, despite the fact that isn’t very powerful, the electric motor can become the main source of power, considering that the drivetrain technology featured in the BMW Concept 5 Series ActiveHybrid allows all-electric, zero-emission motoring in city traffic. In addition comes the special hybrid-based Auto Start Stop function, which offers additional efficiency by consistently switching off the combustion engine when stopping in the traffic.
Moreover, the ActiveHybrid 5 should deliver a standard fuel consumption of around 8 liters per 100 kilometers, despite its more than 300 horsepower.
Except a slightly revised front grille and fascia and different wheels options, the production ActiveHybrid 5 sports a similar design as the current 5 Series sedan. will distinct the 5 Hybrid from the standard version.
Being the first hybrid from BMW with an in-line six-cylinder engine, ActiveHybrid 5 will be launched in five major markets, including the United Statesd during the first quarter of 2012. As for the base price, we suppose that it will be slightly higher than the current gasoline-powered 5 Series sedan, which carry a base price of $45,050.
Source: BimmerToday via BMWblog
