The latest addition to the BMW hybrid family, 5 Series ActiveHybrid, kept the headlines of many automotive publications at the Geneva Motor Show. Joining the X6 and 7 Series Hybrid models, the BMW 5 Series ActiveHybrid will be available to consumers in the second half of 2011.

The BMW Concept 5 Series ActiveHybrid offers the combination of a BMW straight-six with electric drive. The drive system featured in the BMW Concept 5 Series ActiveHybrid consists of a straight-six gasoline engine with TwinPower Turbo technology, eight-speed automatic transmission, and electric drive. The electric motor offers a boost function, supporting the gasoline engine in generating particularly dynamic drive power for an even more sporting driving experience in the car.

IMG_6787 [1600x1200]

The drivetrain hybrid is said to reduce the fuel consumption of the base model by more than 10 percent.

The drivetrain technology featured in the BMW Concept 5 Series ActiveHybrid allows all-electric, zero-emission motoring in city traffic. At the same time a special hybrid-based Auto Start Stop function offers additional efficiency by consistently switching off the combustion engine when stopping at the traffic lights, a road junction, or in congested traffic.

The combustion engine is supported in the BMW Concept 5 Series ActiveHybrid by an electrical drive system developed specifically for this model and arranged in compact dimensions between the straight-six combustion engine and the automatic transmission. Drawing its energy from a high-voltage battery at the back of the car, the electric motor develops maximum output of 40 kW.

In overrun and when applying the brakes, the electric drive systems acts as a generator developing electric power fed into the high-voltage battery. This converts kinetic energy otherwise wasted as heat in the brake system into electric power saved for subsequent use.

Enjoy the photos and stay tuned for an interview with the BMW 5 Series ActiveHybrid Project Manager.