The two-mode hybrid system, co-developed with General Motors and DaimlerChrysler, uses twin electric motors which can either be used to boost acceleration, charge the batteries or as a generator to mutually power each other. The two-mode active transmission is based on an ECVT electrical continuously variable transmission. The two operating modes, one of which has been optimised for low, the other for high speeds, are supplemented by fixed transmission ratios.

Fitting in with BMW’s new EfficientDynamics focus, the modular hybrid system can be easily adapted to other models and should make its way across more cars in coming years. The X6 Active Hybrid is visually differentiated from the regular X6 thanks to unique badging, light blue paint scheme and distinct 21in wheels.

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Official Press Release:
• World debut of BMW Concept X6 ActiveHybrid – combining significant enhancement of efficiency with Sheer Driving Pleasure so typical of BMW.

• The close and direct link of concepts combining the new Sports Activity Coupe with innovative BMW ActiveHybrid technology ensures an authentic match of design and technology in every respect. The potential of BMW’s ActiveHybrid system develops its optimum effect in the unique concept of the Sports Activity Coupe. This holistic, all-round approach sets the stage for an all-new driving experience.

• The BMW Concept X6 ActiveHybrid, the BMW in the world of hybrid cars.

• BMW ActiveHybrid is far superior to conventional hybrid vehicles in terms of driving dynamics. Its fuel consumption and emission ratings are up to 20 per cent better than on a comparable car with conventional drivetrain technology.

• The combination with innovative hybrid technology offers the most sporting and dynamic rendition of a BMW X Car. Design language typical of BMW takes up the superior driving dynamics of the Sports Activity Coupe and visualises this superiority through authentic design and a unique look. Indeed, the extravagant design of the body combines the sporting elegance of a BMW Coupe with the striking DNA of BMW X and provides a clear reference to the innovative drive concept.

Technology:

• The driving experience in BMW Concept X6 ActiveHybrid corresponds to the character of a typical BMW based on supreme dynamism and performance on the road. The car responds directly, spontaneously and with outstanding precision to the driver’s commands, offering the driver perfect feedback at all times through touch effects and acoustic signals, like on a car with a conventional combustion engine.

• BMW ActiveHybrid is a particular highlight of BMW EfficientDynamics, BMW’s trendsetting development strategy for today’s world. Introducing this technology, BMW is taking the next step in the ongoing reduction of fuel consumption and emissions. BMW ActiveHybrid is based on a modular concept following the strategy of “Best of Hybrid” to integrate the most appropriate, optimum components in each case in different concepts.

• Interacting with the two-mode active transmission, the concept, through electrical support, offers two operating modes, one for setting off and driving at low speeds, one for higher speeds. This ensures optimum use of the torque generated as a function of driving conditions.

• The innovative two-mode active transmission allows variable power transmission via the power split incorporating planetary gearsets. In addition, the active transmission incorporates an electric drive system and enables the vehicle to drive at fixed transmission ratios within one system. This combines the driving dynamics and efficiency of the combustion engine and the electric drive system in an innovative, intelligent manner.

Exterior design:

• The powerful presence of the car’s body forms an ideal match with the flat, sleek flow of the greenhouse roofline. Indeed, this flowing roofline is a characteristic feature of the car’s coupe silhouette, just like the short front overhang, the long wheelbase and the long rear overhang.

• In its design, BMW Concept X6 ActiveHybrid boasts all the DNA and genes so characteristic of the BMW X philosophy. The visual balance of the front and rear wheels to be admired clearly from the side makes a clear reference to BMW xDrive, BMW’s intelligent all-wheel-drive technology.

• The second element dominating the design of the body is the clear orientation to the wheels, the muscular wheel arches and the large wheels clearly bearing testimony to the stable position and roadholding of the car.

• The dynamically rising contour line at the side and the growing distance between the shoulder and the sill-line as the vehicle moves back create a dynamic wedge shape.

• The striking front view with a clear focus on the vehicle’s width again provides the typical look of a BMW X car further emphasised by the extra-large BMW kidney grille also serving as the air intake with its robust slats.

• The engine compartment lid comes with clearly shaped contours sub-divided by sharp lines and tapering towards the BMW kidney grille, as well as a powerful curvature at the top with that striking BMW powerdome.

• Through their unique shape and design, the D-pillars provide a clear expression of power and stability. The innovative design of the rear lights, in turn, emphasises the sheer width of the car, while horizontal lines highlight the wide track.

• The underfloor protection panels front and rear are made of brushed aluminium, the rear underfloor panel moving out when required and covering the tailpipes on BMW Concept X6 ActiveHybrid while driving on electric power only.

• Door cutout trim with blue stripes and the name “BMW ActiveHybrid” clearly refer to the unique drive concept of this equally unique vehicle. The light colour of the body, in turn, forms a clear contrast to the dark window graphics, and the 21-inch wheels come in innovative, three-dimensional rim design.

Unique and Only from BMW: Hybrid Technology with Sheer Driving Pleasure. BMW Concept X6 ActiveHybrid.

An innovative vehicle concept and equally innovative drivetrain technology are now coming together in a unique car the world has never seen before: BMW Concept X6 ActiveHybrid is the world’s first Sports Activity Coupe to feature a special concept of hybrid drive likewise never seen before – and all this from Germany’s premium car manufacturer.

The result is the first BMW in the hybrid world, BMW Concept X6 ActiveHybrid combining Sheer Driving Pleasure with significant enhancement of all-round efficiency. Through its drive concept alone, BMW Concept X6 ActiveHybrid allows far greater driving dynamics than a conventional hybrid car and at the same time reduces fuel consumption by up to 20 per cent versus a comparable car running on a combustion engine alone.

The innovative drivetrain and the unique concept of the Sports Activity Coupe unparalleled the world over form an ideal match. BMW ActiveHybrid technology has indeed been developed especially for a particularly dynamic car in this segment and for extensive use far beyond city traffic. In terms of its size, character and driving dynamics, the BMW Sports Activity Coupe is simply ideal for bringing out the full potential of BMW ActiveHybrid technology, combining an elegant and dynamically flowing roofline with the features so typical of a BMW X car. In its design it clearly bears out the full DNA of BMW X, while interpreting the character of these cars in a uniquely sporting manner.

Combining the qualities of electric drive and BMW driving dynamics to provide an unprecedented driving experience.

BMW ActiveHybrid for the first time combines the combustion engine and two high-performance electric motors to allow use of the greater efficiency of hybrid technology over a much larger speed range than with a conventional hybrid vehicle. A further unique point is the driving experience provided by BMW ActiveHybrid reflecting the specific features and characteristics of electric drive together with the proven features of a combustion engine from BMW.

Responding directly and immediately to the driver’s commands when setting off, the electric drivetrain contributes its special qualities right from the start. Then, continuing the process of acceleration, BMW Concept X6 ActiveHybrid offers a perfect symbiosis of the drivetrain performance required and appropriate touch-based and acoustic feedback to the driver never seen before on a hybrid vehicle. The result is a driving experience at all speeds with that dynamic development of power and performance so typical of a BMW engine interacting with the particularly precise and fast-acting automatic transmission.

BMW ActiveHybrid: the next step in the BMW EfficientDynamics development strategy. Offering enhancement of both all-round economy and driving dynamics, BMW Concept X6 ActiveHybrid fits perfectly into the BMW EfficientDynamics development strategy. Indeed, implementing this strategy with full consistency, BMW is able to offer cars in all segments through the current model range ranking right at the top against the competition in terms of both performance and efficiency.

BMW ActiveHybrid is a firm part of the BMW EfficientDynamics development strategy. Introducing this technology, BMW is taking the next step in consistently reducing both fuel consumption and emissions. BMW ActiveHybrid is based on a modular principle following the strategy of “Best of Hybrid” to integrate the optimum components in each case in various vehicle concepts. And pursuing this strategy, BMW, with its first full-hybrid car, is now taking the next step towards lasting and sustainable mobility based on Sheer Driving Pleasure.

BMW Concept X6 ActiveHybrid is the result of the consistent development of attractive vehicle concepts and drivetrain technologies. Inventing the Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV), BMW has already revolutionised the market by creating a complete, brand-new segment where previously there was only the sports utility vehicle (SUV). And given their supreme agility and driving dynamics, both the BMW X5 and the BMW X3 have now gained a dominating position in this segment.

Now the concept of a Sports Activity Coupe shows how the range of BMW X models so successful the world over might be enlarged by another exclusive variant, while at the same time presenting a further possibility of experiencing the sporting performance so typical of the brand in completely new style.

A further highlight is BMW’s outstanding competence in the area of drivetrain development, setting the basis for combining an innovative driving experience with outstanding efficiency. Once again, therefore, BMW is becoming the trendsetter in a market segment which shows particularly dynamic growth.

A hybrid car with that typical BMW character requires innovative technology.

The objective to combine that Sheer Driving Pleasure so typical of BMW with a significant reduction of fuel consumption and emissions in BMW’s first full hybrid, called for the development of innovative technology offering a synthesis of the combustion engine and the electric motor.

To make this process of development as efficient as possible, the BMW Group has joined forces with General Motors and DaimlerChrysler to form the Global Hybrid Cooperation serving to develop the next generation of hybrid drive systems. These three equal partners pool their know-how and resources in the GM, DaimlerChrysler and BMW Hybrid Development Center in Troy (Michigan, USA, concentrating in the process on a flexible system concept allowing each of the companies involved to integrate the particular concept, design and construction of their cars in the new technology, focusing on the specific features of each brand. Precisely this is why the technology of the two-mode active transmission created through this cooperation is part the BMW ActiveHybrid modular development system.

Optimised use of energy and superior power in every situation.

The innovative power transmission featured by BMW Concept X6 ActiveHybrid combines two compact, high-performance electric motors with a transmission using fixed transmission ratios. These drive systems are connected to one another by three planetary gearsets allowing a power split covering the drive forces of the combustion engine and the electric motors in two transmission ranges and thus ensuring a level of variability quite impossible on a conventional hybrid drivetrain thanks to the combination of the two drive sources able to provide optimum power and maximum efficiency under all driving conditions and power requirements from the driver.

The system referred to on account of its two operating modes as the two-mode active transmission also comprises a high-performance battery, power electronics with an integrated inverter module, and the cables required.

The two-mode active transmission is based on an ECVT electrical continuously variable transmission. The two operating modes, one of which has been optimised for low, the other for high speeds, are supplemented by fixed transmission ratios.

The two power-split ECVT sections allow the drivetrain to run at continuously variable speeds and ensure full, highly efficient hybrid functions throughout the complete operating range of the car, the innovative system in BMW Concept X6 ActiveHybrid thus serving to reduce fuel consumption by up to 20 per cent compared with a comparable BMW running on a combustion engine alone.

Given the two-mode system, the electric motors are furthermore very compact in their dimensions, facilitating integration into the overall vehicle as well as a minimum increase in weight, which is lower in the case of BMW Concept X6 ActiveHybrid than with conventional hybrid cars offering comparable power.

BMW Concept X6 ActiveHybrid can be driven on electric power only, on the combustion engine alone, or with a combination of both power units. Depending on driving conditions, the electric motors may also be used for both accelerating and regenerative application of the brakes, in which case the brake forces generated when coasting and when applying the brakes flowi to the high-volt energy storage unit to provide an increase in electric power.

This energy subsequently available for further use need not be generated by the combustion engine and is therefore available virtually free of charge.

Already using this principle in a similar manner on production cars featuring Brake Energy Regeneration, BMW is able to ensure efficient energy management and maintain the battery at a high charge level. On the road, the support provided by the electric motors in this way referred to as “boosting” serves, first, to give the car incomparable spontaneity and a direct response and, second, to significantly reduce fuel consumption.

BMW ActiveHybrid comes in where conventional hybrid drive reaches its limit.

Conventional hybrid systems allow efficient motoring only in relatively small or medium-sized vehicles at relatively low speeds. This is because most of the power coming from the combustion engine has to be conveyed most of the time via the electrical path of the transmission and because of the use of a high level of electric power. A car with enhanced dynamics, performance and running speeds would therefore require a larger combustion engine calling for less efficient, larger and heavier electric motors.

In the power split drive mode, also referred to as the output branched concept, one of the two electric motors acts as a generator, converting some of the engine’s power into electrical current subsequently fed to the battery or the second electric motor. The second electric motor then converts such power coming from the first electric motor or from the battery back into mechanical power for the output drive shaft on the transmission.

Two-mode technology varies the balance of electrical and mechanical energy on the respective paths for optimum efficiency. A further point is that a conventional hybrid drive system does not come with fixed mechanical transmission ratios, which would serve to optimise fuel consumption. Instead, conventional hybrid drivetrains use a continuously variable transmission, with the disadvantage that the actual requirement for performance and load feedback from the car are separated from one another, thus failing to provide a dynamic driving impression. The two-mode active transmission, by contrast, overcomes and eliminates the disadvantages of a conventional hybrid drivetrain. It reduces the share of power flowing through the electrical branch of the transmission throughout a broad range of transmission ratios. Through its power split in two transmission ranges, the two-mode active transmission therefore provides the energy of both electric motors in an ideal form tailored to current driving conditions.

BMW ActiveHybrid: the result of years of research.

The principle of the two-mode active transmission in BMW Concept X6 ActiveHybrid forms a significant milestone in BMW’s ActiveHybrid strategy, fulfilling the demands made by a broad range of customers looking for a dynamic, economical and responsible form of motoring.

To reach this goal BMW pursues a clear-cut “Best of Hybrid” strategy enabling use of the optimum components under a modular principle within a wide range of different vehicle concepts planned for the future. Parallel to the Global Hybrid Cooperation, the BMW Group has therefore entered into yet another joint venture with DaimlerChrysler, developing components for hybrid drive in the luxury performance saloon.

BMW started to develop hybrid drive many years ago, long before the foundation of the Global Hybrid Cooperation. Indeed, BMW tested the electric drivetrain as early as in the late 1980s, for example in the BMW E1. And the BMW Group has been conducting research on hybrid technology and its various options for more than 15 years, making this technology and the results already obtained a firm part of the BMW X5 EfficientDynamics development strategy.

In the meantime the BMW Group has presented several hybrid vehicle concepts, starting with a hybrid car in 1995 based on the BMW 518i. In particular, the outstanding potential of this drive technology has been proven in the BMW X5 EfficientDynamics presented in 2003 and the BMW Concept X3 EfficientDynamics shown to the world in 2005.

Introducing BMW Concept X6 ActiveHybrid, BMW is proudly presenting the highest degree of maturity in hybrid technology seen so far. Indeed, this technology offers everything it takes to combine extremely efficient motoring with that Sheer Driving Pleasure so typical of BMW.

A clear sign of the special status of the BMW ActiveHybrid concept is the presentation of this technology in combination with a brand new type of vehicle: BMW Concept X6 ActiveHybrid is the unusually attractive vision of a truly innovative vehicle virtually predestined for such cutting-edge drivetrain technology.

A thrilling team: BMW ActiveHybrid and the world’s first Sports Activity Coupe.

BMW Concept X6 ActiveHybrid establishes a new benchmark right from the start through the innovative combination of design and concept features. Four doors and the smooth, dynamic coupe roofline interact with a high window line and extra-muscular wheel arches ensuring permanent presence and a perfect balance of the front and rear axle as a clear reference to all-wheel drive.

At the front BMW Concept X6 ActiveHybrid is dominated by design elements symbolising the vehicle’s dynamic orientation to the road, while from the side the vehicle’s proportions are particularly elegant and well-balanced. The short front body overhang emphasises the dynamic character of the car, the long overhang at the rear highlights the stretched and sleek appearance of the vehicle.

Moved far to the back and with the roofline dropping down visibly and continuously from the B-pillar, the greenhouse, together with the high window line, ensures flat and low-slung window graphics.

The roofline flows down gently to the contour lip at the rear, finally merging into a slight upward swing perfecting the coupe line and at the same time optimising the car’s streamlining.

The rear look of BMW Concept X6 ActiveHybrid is split by horizontal lines making the car look wider and emphasising its stable grip on the road. A muscular bumper and the protective cover for the underfloor are further classic design elements characteristic of a BMW X Car. And last but not least, the proportions so typical of a coupe are borne out here in particular style typical of a BMW X Car, inter alia through the muscular and elegant shoulders.

A typical BMW also in design.

BMW Concept X6 ActiveHybrid is clearly recognisable as a BMW from every angle. All design features clearly bear out the language of BMW design, with the focus primarily on those sculptural lines so characteristic of all BMW X models.

The front, side and rear body sections flow smoothly and directly into one another, with additionally highlighting various design elements typical of the brand ranging from the BMW kidney grille through the dual round headlights with their cut contour and the powerful contour line at the side all the way to the horizontal lines at the rear.

Following the usual philosophy of a BMW X Car, the wheel arches show slightly square contours offering space for 21-inch light-alloy wheels in Y-spoke design created especially for BMW Concept X6 ActiveHybrid.

This is indeed a brand-new rendition of such three-dimensional rims with the individual spokes showing recessed surfaces not only at the top, but also further down towards the inner sections of the wheel.

The exterior mirrors on BMW Concept X6 ActiveHybrid are likewise brandnew in their design, a white, shimmering row of lights standing out between the lower element finished in body colour and the upper section of the mirror cap made of aluminium. Supplementing the corona rings in the headlights so typical of BMW, these additional lights also provide a daytime light function.

The unique character of BMW Concept X6 ActiveHybrid is also borne out by the design of the rear lights where the L-shape so typical of a BMW X Car is re-interpreted in a particularly dynamic, sweeping motion. Extending far into the side panels, the rear lights also serve to emphasise the overall width of the car in its night design.

Front and rear: clear signals for efficient motoring.

BMW Concept X6 ActiveHybrid proudly presents its unmistakable design also through truly authentic, unique features clearly visible at very first sight. Hence, through its look alone this concept car arouses the greatest expectations of the driving experience in such a Sports Activity Coupe. It clearly underlines the robust character and superior traction of a BMW X Car in combination with dynamic driving qualities never seen before in this segment.

The unique character of this drivetrain concept is also expressed through the design of BMW Concept X6 ActiveHybrid: Not only the door cutout strips with their blue, illuminated “BMW ActiveHybrid” marking and the strongly contrasting colour scheme combining the paintwork with the dark window graphics confirm the special status of this vehicle, but also other, truly unique and innovative design features at the back of the car. As soon as the electric motors take over in full and provide all the drive power required, a clear signal for optimised combustion and emission ratings is proudly displayed at the back, since the underfloor protection panel made of brushed aluminium both front and rear is a moving element on BMW Concept X6 ActiveHybrid: So as soon as the vehicle is running entirely on electric power, the rear protection panel may be moved up to cover the two tailpipes on the exhaust system as long as they are not required for their normal purpose.

The innovative philosophy of BMW Concept X6 ActiveHybrid clearly proves that large and dynamic vehicles may also be driven economically and with a clear focus on the environment, at the same time reaching new horizons in terms of driving pleasure and aesthetic design.

BMW Concept X6 ActiveHybrid thus offers not only a particularly high standard of efficiency, but also enhanced driving dynamics, this concept meeting the high standards of BMW EfficientDynamics in every respect. Indeed, BMW Concept X6 ActiveHybrid ensures progress on all levels – in terms of driving dynamics, in its all-round economy, and in design.

Sheer Driving Pleasure and the unique experience of particularly efficient motoring therefore come out clearly at very first sight.

Through the program, BMW hopes to underscore the fact that the Hydrogen 7 is a production model, not a concept car, and that it has successfully completed the entire product development process and meets all standards necessary for driving on U.S. roads. During the program, 25 of the 100 cars produced will be used in evaluation programs in the U.S. The vehicle is currently not for sale, but the company says it is “considered to be a milestone in bringing forward hydrogen as the sustainable fuel for individual transportation.”

BMW says it believes hydrogen will replace petroleum as the long-term alternative to fossil fuel, and hopes the Hydrogen 7 will play a pioneering role in driving forward hydrogen technologies

OTTAWA — Could it really be so – that GM’s Hummer is more than 40 per cent greener than Toyota’s Prius? That Ford’s F-Series pickup is greener? That GM’s Silverado pickup is greener? That Dodge’s Ram pickup is greener? That Cadillac’s DTS, a full-sized luxury sedan with a V8 engine, is greener? Could it be, in fact, that seven different luxury-class automobiles are all greener – and that three of them are Cadillac models?

Well, indeed, it really could be. And, if so, Finance Minister Jim Flaherty’s new-car incentive program is a huge environmental mistake.

Oregon-based CNW Marketing Research Inc. has conducted the world’s most comprehensive analysis of the “life cycle” energy requirements of more than 100 makes and models of cars and trucks. Given the thousands of parts and processes in the manufacturing and operation of cars, it was a complex task and took the company two years to complete. Volvo once tried to do it – and gave up in frustration (though it does publish “life cycle” analysis for its own makes).

CNW identified 4,000 “data points” for each car, ranging from the energy consumed in research and development to energy consumed in junkyard disposal. It calculated the electrical energy needed to produce each pound of parts. It calculated greenhouse gas emissions. It calculated mileage, too – adjusting for the differences between rush-hour Tokyo and rural America.

The company describes this exercise as “dust to dust” analysis. CNW has now published its second annual report, a 400-page production.

To keep it relatively free of technical jargon, the company expresses energy requirement as the dollar cost of energy for every mile across a vehicle’s anticipated years of use – “U.S. dollars per lifetime mile.” Thus it reports the lifetime energy requirement of a Hummer as $1.90 a mile; the lifetime energy requirement of a Prius as $2.86 a mile.

It reports by model name and by category. For 22 models of economy cars, the average lifetime energy cost is $0.85. For six models of pickup trucks, it’s $2.58. For 14 models of smaller-sized sports utility vehicles, it’s $2.07; for nine models of larger-sized SUVs, it’s $3.98. For 10 models of gas-electric hybrids, it’s $3.65.

Compare the SUVs against the hybrids and you get a sweep in favour of conventional technology. The best-rated smaller SUVs are more than twice as eco-friendly as the hybrids: Dodge’s Durango, $1.57; Ford’s Explorer, $1.61; Chevrolet’s TrailBlazer, $1.61; Jeep’s Grand Cherokee, $1.80.

More remarkably, one of the larger SUVs, Ford’s Expedition, beats the hybrids with an eco-cost of $3.54.

CNW found wide differences, however, within classes of vehicles. For 18 models of luxury cars, the average energy cost is $4.45. Yet the best of these luxury cars are superior, in lifetime energy use, to hybrids.

The luxury cars that rival hybrids: Lincoln’s Town Car, $2.66; Acura’s RL, $2.80; Cadillac’s CTS, $3.19; BMW’s 5 Series, $3.19; Mercedes-Benz’s E-Class, $3.48; Toyota Land Cruiser 80 series, $3.49; Cadillac’s STS (Seville), $3.56; Cadillac’s DTS (DeVille), $3.65.

CNW’s assessment of the hybrids has irritated some of the car companies.

Toyota says that CNW credited Prius with only half its 200,000 lifetime miles. CNW says that Prius owners drive less than 7,500 miles a year – meaning that these cars will be scrapped long before they use their expected lifetime mileage (in 26 years). CNW says that hybrids fare poorly because of increased complexity. Honda’s conventional Accord gets rated at $2.18; its Accord Hybrid gets rated at $3.29 – an environmental cost 50 per cent higher.

Take the batteries, for example. Toyota buys 1,000 tonnes of nickel a year from Ontario (mined and smelted in Sudbury). This nickel gets shipped to Wales for refining, then to China, for further processing, and then to Toyota’s battery plant in Tokyo – a 10,000-mile trip, mostly by petrol-gulping container ships and diesel-powered locomotives.

Toyota, however, still has some of the greenest vehicles on earth. The Scion has the lowest energy cost of all at 48 cents a mile. The Corolla, at 72 cents, and the Echo (Yaris), at 77 cents, are also in the best-on-earth class. Low-energy competitors include Dodge’s Neon (64 cents) and Saturn’s Ion (67 cents). Cars with the highest energy requirement include the Rolls Royce ($10.97) and the equally elegant German-made Maybach ($15.83).

In his March budget, Mr. Flaherty made fuel efficiency – gas mileage alone – the sole basis for the environmental rating of new cars. He will reward high-mileage cars (with rebates from $1,000 to $2,000) and punish low-mileage cars (with surcharges from $1,000 to $4,000). The program could well be a phenomenal waste of energy. Junk it, Mr. Flaherty. It’s not fit for the road.

Washington, D.C. – A report from the Union of Concerned Scientists (UCS) says that increasing the average fuel economy of America’s new cars to 35 mpg US (6.7 L/100 km) would save consumers US$61 billion at the gas pump. It would also increase U.S. employment by 241,000 jobs by 2020, including 23,900 in the auto industry. The study comes as the House of Representatives prepares to consider energy legislation in the coming weeks, which could include debate over a bill that would guarantee progress to 35 mpg by 2018.

“Putting technology to work means putting people to work, whether it’s in the computer industry or the auto industry,” says David Friedman, author of the study and research director of the Clean Vehicles Program at UCS. “A 35 mpg standard means billions of dollars helping to create more U.S. jobs, not lining the pockets of the oil industry and their overseas suppliers.”

According to the analysis, nearly US$24 billion of the gasoline savings would become new revenue for automakers in 2020; consumers could then choose how to spend the remaining US$37 billion saved in gasoline that year. Shifting the money from the oil industry to more productive parts of the economy would generate 82,900 new jobs in the service industry, 44,400 jobs in retail trade, 33,100 jobs in finance, insurance and real-estate industries, and 17,800 jobs in non-auto-industry manufacturing jobs. Thousands of other new jobs would be created in agriculture, transportation, construction, utilities and government. Oil and associated industries would see job forecasts drop by 21,000, although these jobs would be shifted to other sectors of the economy, yielding a net increase of 241,000 new jobs.

The report also says that putting fuel economy technology to work would cut oil consumption by 1.6 million barrels per day and reduce global warming pollution by more than 260 million metric tonnes, akin to taking nearly 40 million of today’s average cars and trucks off the road in 2020.

BMW officials say the 260-horsepower Hydrogen 7 is “autobahn fast” and it certainly seems so from behind the wheel. But this is what you would expect from a luxury sedan powered by a 6.0-litre V-12 engine.

The surprise is what comes out of the tailpipe: essentially nothing. Hydrogen 7 emissions are cleaner than the air you breathe.

A hydrogen car? It’s real and it’s here. BMW won’t discuss the cost of the 50 Hydrogen 7 cars it is now putting on the road, or how much it spent to develop them. But it is safe to say the one I am now driving is valued at hundreds of thousands of dollars.

The technology in the Hydrogen 7 and the very philosophy behind it – what BMW calls “Efficient Dynamics” – is very real, though, despite the price. So real, in fact, that BMW plans to put a small fleet of these hydrogen-powered 760Li cars on North American roads this year.
The idea is to gather real-world feedback about the Hydrogen 7 from selected consumers, opinion leaders, politicians and the like. They will drive the car for free starting this year. Each will take a Hydrogen 7 for periods ranging from four weeks to four months.

In markets where a liquid hydrogen fuelling station is not available – and there are only two such filling stations in North America, one in Washington, D.C., the other in Los Angeles, and perhaps a few dozen in the rest of the world – the cars will be fuelled at BMW’s mobile hydrogen fuelling stations.

BMW officials insist that their Hydrogen 7 is nothing less than an environmental-friendly luxury sedan that also is a joy to drive.

The bi-fuel Hydrogen 7 is in essence a BMW 760i that, at the push of a button mounted on the steering wheel, is capable of alternating between gasoline and liquid hydrogen. The heart of it all is an internal-combustion engine that runs on liquid hydrogen or gasoline.

The car itself? The Hydrogen 7 looks exactly like a standard 7-Series, aside from three small “Hydrogen” nameplates. Also, a small opening on the hood allows hydrogen vapours to escape.

In hydrogen mode, the 260-hp engine runs a bit louder, but even this is barely noticeable. What matters is that, from a driving dynamics point of view, there is no perceptible lag when the engine switches from gasoline to hydrogen.

Unfortunately, during our test drive the dual-fuel system temporarily fails, leaving us planted at the side of the road for a few brief moments. Eventually, the 7 starts up but from then on will run only in gasoline mode.

Still, there is smart engineering at work here. Unlike some auto makers, who are promising futuristic fuel cell systems, BMW has chosen to focus on using hydrogen to power a relatively conventional internal combustion engine.

By going bi-fuel with the Hydrogen 7, a buyer would be able to run on conventional gasoline when unable to find a hydrogen pump. A car capable of running on both gasoline and hydrogen is a more practical solution in a world where the development of a hydrogen-refuelling infrastructure is not yet even in its infancy.

The Hydrogen 7 is the latest and purest expression of what the BMW Group’s drivetrain development division calls “Efficient Dynamics.”

Professor Burkhard Goschel, head of development at BMW, says Efficient Dynamics is a philosophical approach that “resolves the apparent conflict between reducing consumption and emissions on the one hand and enhancing performance and agility on the other.”

In truth, Efficient Dynamics is what might be called a “big picture” approach to powering vehicles.

It means that the seemingly incompatible issues of environmental compatibility and consumption are resolved not in isolation from each other, but together and in the larger context of legal and statutory requirements, social acceptance and customer demands.

“Not everything that is technically feasible is also economical and ecological,” Prof. Goschel says. “And, most importantly, it doesn’t necessarily convince the customer. An intelligent drive where power can be called up at any time and which provides more spontaneity for less consumption is a realistic development proposition.”

The Hydrogen 7 has a range of about 200 kilometres on hydrogen and an additional 500 km on gasoline. A 30-millimetre-thick, 200-kilogram cryogenic fuel tank holds 170 litres of liquid hydrogen at minus 254 degrees Celsius. BMW says the insulation is equivalent to the thickness of 17 metres of Styrofoam.

One compromise here is the large tank. It uses half of the trunk space. Rear seats are moved up 114 mm to accommodate the tank. Expected advances in tank technology will resolve these issues over time.

Another ingenious development is the BMW-developed coupling system that allows the car to be filled with liquid hydrogen at a conventional filling station with fuel stored in above-ground tanks. The on-board tank can be filled in eight minutes and is designed to keep hydrogen cold for up to 17 hours. After that, it safely vents away as water vapour

JEREMY CATO
Globe and Mail Update

Using Hybrid Technologies proprietary advanced lithium management and battery-balancing system, the all-electric Mini Cooper will reach a top speed of 80 mph with the ability to do 0-60mph in 6.0 seconds. The all-electric Mini Cooper will be able to trave 120 miles on a single charge.

Marketing Trend forecasters feel that it will be the new “it” car among the Hollywood in crowd who are by no means strangers to Hybrid’s lithium-powered vehicle developments.

The Hydrogen 7 is a production-ready prototype unveiled by BMW last year. Unlike many hydrogen-powered cars, the H7 does not use fuel cells and electric motors, but instead burns hydrogen in a typical internal combustion fashion.

BMW has apparently come through on its promise of building a limited number of Hydrogen 7s for use by celebrities and government officials.

The cruising range in the hydrogen mode is more than 125 miles, with another 300 miles in the gasoline mode. If there was no gasoline storage, hydrogen mode range could be significantly greater.

Although the H7 could be produced in a few years, the lack of a hydrogen infrastructure means most people probably won’t get their hands on one for quite some time.

Fortunately, BMW is taking a first step into the hydrogen future with its Hydrogen 7 cars. Based on production 7 Series sedans, these prototypes employ conventional internal-combustion engines converted for operation on either liquid hydrogen or conventional gasoline. This approach not only uses available technology (speeding the advance of hydrogen generation, storage, and infrastructure), it also delivers a dynamic experience familiar to today’s drivers, especially those who already drive BMWs.

Although there is just a handful of Hydrogen 7’s in the country at the moment, they are actually considered production models. Some are in private hands, while others are being utilized institutionally. Among the lucky few who can be seen tooling around in a Hydrogen 7 is Governor Schwarzenegger of California. Despite our considerably lower profile, we were able to get some seat time in one of these Sevens recently and took it cruising through the bustling streets of Manhattan.

Aside from the reflective foil graphics on the exterior, there is almost nothing to give away the Hydrogen 7 as anything other than a your average, run-of-the-mill 760Li. Strip away the stickers and only the large hydrogen fuel filler port and modest bulge in the hood (to provide clearance for the hydrogen injection valves) distinguish it as something truly uncommon.

Even inside, there are no obtrusive screens, buttons or levers. The few unique controls are integrated into the steering wheel and dashboard as though BMW had already built 100,000 of them. The rear seating area gives up 4.5 inches of legroom compared to a conventional 760Li, making room for the 30-gallon hydrogen fuel tank between the back seats and the trunk. Otherwise, the cabin is sumptuously appointed with walnut and leather and Alcantara.

Starting this car is no different than starting any other BMW. By default, the Hydrogen 7 starts up under gasoline power. Once it reaches operating temperature, it can be switched over to hydrogen propulsion. The switchover is virtually seamless, handled at the mere pressing of the H2 button on the right side of the steering wheel. Other than a slight hiccup during the transition, which could be easily mistaken for a typical misfire, driving on hydrogen feels mostly like driving any other large BMW.

The Hydrogen 7 uses BMW’s 6.0-liter V12 engine as the basis. Pure hydrogen, however, is a different animal than gasoline, burning up to ten times faster than conventional fuels. Accordingly, the engine management system has been programmed to deal with the unique properties of liquid hydrogen, and the resulting output is lower than a normal gasoline V12. And in order to make the car’s performance more predictable, the engine delivers the same output in gasoline mode as it makes in H2 mode. The result is 260 hp at 5100 rpm and 287 lb-ft of torque at 4300 rpm.

Around town, it gets off the line like any other 7, but once under way it seems to lack the mid-range potency required to squirt safely through the last few amber rays of a rapidly-changing traffic light. Some of this is due to the weight- pulling over 5000 pounds of technology is a lot for just 260 horses these days. Nevertheless, BMW claims the Hydrogen 7 will get to 62 mph in nine and a half seconds and will pull to an electronically limited top speed of 143 mph.

Ride and handling are like pretty much any other full-tilt Seven. Aluminum is used extensively in the front suspension to keep weight down, but springs from BMW’s in-house Security 7 model help deal with the added mass that comes with having dual fueling systems.

Our time in BMW’s zeppelin was brief, but it made a significant impression. Suddenly the thought of dwindling fossil fuel supplies and reducing greenhouse gases isn’t sounding so bleak. Just as it did a quarter century ago, technology is overcoming the next major obstacle on the road to more responsible motoring.

May 11, 2007

Bryan Joslin at The Car Lounge