In the run-up to the
Mondial de l'Automobile de Paris beginning next week, BMW has announced the launch of the 7-Series ActiveHybrid Concept. This all-new concept is the answer to the
Mercedes-Benz S400 Hybrid unveiled earlier this week.
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| BMW 7-Series ActiveHybrid Concept |
Although both manufacturers worked in collaboration to develop the cars, on such aspects as the lithium ion battery for example, each vehicle has its own engine. The S400 is powered by a 3.5-litre, 279-hp V6 while the BMW calls upon its brand-new 4.4-litre, 407-hp V8. Torque is just as generous, especially when coupled with the AC electric engine, which produces 20 hp and 155 lb-ft of torque that combines with the 442 lb-ft produced by the V8. This new concept thumbs its nose at both the S400 Hybrid and the recently launche
750i : the Concept is more powerful than the former and 15% more fuel-efficient than the latter. BMW is entering the game a little later than its competitors. In the best-case scenario, the model will be available next fall in Europe, four months later than the S400 and almost three years after Lexus launched its equivalent.
photo: BMW