BMW X6 HYBRID test

 

The latest stroke of genius or provocation depending on one’s point of view is this BMW Active Hybrid X6. The large dimensions allow for the use of not one but two electric motors in addition to the combustion engine. At slower speeds it can be driven entirely by electricity, with no noise and more especially no CO2 out put.

The latest gas V8 engine comes with an air cooling system and the two electric motors are tucked in behind the V8.

The high-performance batteries, lodged in the spare wheel compartment come with an independent cooling system weigh, all of which weighs in the neighbourhood of 80 kilograms.

Up to 60km/h and for a distance of 3 kilometres, the car can rely entirely on the two electric units.

At a stable speed, one of the two electric motors functions with the V8, while the other acts as an alternator.

When you step on the gas, both electric motors and the V8 are used in the « boost » mode.

The batteries are re-charged by recuperating energy, either from the motor brake or by stepping on the brake peddle.

This hybrid system is the logical progression of the “Efficient Dynamics” system BMW introduced in 2007. BMW’s goal is to reduce CO2 emissions in its entire range of vehicles, while preserving driving pleasure, which is no easy feat.

BMW isn‘t looking for huge sales with this version, which is only available on the flagship of the range, the X6 Drive 50i for an additional €20 000, bringing the out the door price to €113 600. With this car, BMW, which has proven it knows more than a thing or two when it comes to combustion engines, now can boast of having the most powerful Hybrid on the market.

The atypical look of the X6 hasn’t changed; the only difference is the discreet placement of the Active Hybrid logo. The interior is refined, there is no option package, the exclusive finish is standard issue.

In « boost » mode, the 485 brake horsepower with 780 Newton metres of torque, X6 Active Hybrid accelerates from naught to 100km.h in 5.6 seconds, while needing 20% less fuel than its petrol equivalent, despite having 80 less horsepower.

While this is an encouraging technological break through it does add 250 kilograms to the overall weight. Tipping the scales at 2500 kgs, anticipating breaking points becomes an issue as does cornering speed. Here’s hoping that one day lighter batteries will be incorporated.