IAA BMW Podium Highlights

BMW Exhibit Tour

BMW CS Concept

The 1 Series Debut

Chasing Chris Bangle

BMW EfficientDynamics at Frankfurt

Discussing the X6 Concept with Adrian van Hooydonk

Interview with Clemens Zimmermann about the strategy behind the X6

So which carmaker is the world’s cleanest? Not sure? Well, an independent survey released last week has found that BMW has most improved its average fuel efficiency and CO2 emission rate. Indeed, it’s done so to an extent which will embarrass other carmakers.

The study, began from 1990-2005 by Environmental Defense, a US-based non-profit environmental advocacy group, which shows BMW has improved fuel economy by 14 per cent and carbon emissions by 12.3 per cent.

The next best reduction was Toyota’s 3 per cent. The C02 performance of every other leading carmaker deteriorated.

BMW has made much of the fact that the report covers a period when its US sales increased fourfold.

The Americans, of course, buy more big X5 SUVs than the rest of the world combined. The report, Automakers’ Corporate Carbon Burdens, studied the impact of 12 major carmakers’ product strategies on fuel efficiency and overall automotive carbon emissions.

BMW improved fuel economy on several key models, including the 3 Series, 5 Series, 7Series, Z4 M Coupe, M5 Sedan and X5 SUV. Of course, the group’s Mini Cooper accounted for almost half of BMW’s overall fuel economy improvements.

BMW Australia spokesman Toni Andreevski says the group has made further substantial improvements to fuel consumption and emissions since the end of the survey period.

“Already in 2007, one-third of new BMWs sold in Europe have a CO2 rating of no more than 140g per kilometre,” he says. “Basically it is a great result that shows that we can continue to optimise current engines. It also shows petrol and diesel engines that outperform existing hybrid technology at comparable costs.”

With its latest diesel and lean-burn direct-injection petrol engines, (the latter is no good for Australia because of the high sulphur content of our petrol) BMW has taken its own hybrid direction. This week at the Frankfurt motor show, it showcased its new dual-mode hybrid that returns a claimed 20 per cent economy improvement on the highway and in town.

BMW’s other more vaunted green gambit is the Hydrogen 7, the first hydrogen-powered luxury sedan. Driven in Germany last year by carsguide, the Hydrogen 7 emits primarily vapour when running on a non-petrol engine.

Toyota rated second best, reducing CO2 3 per cent overall, a result in part due to its introduction of the Prius hybrid, but mainly to improvements made to the best-selling Corolla.

The report also rated the overall ‘carbon burden’ that carmakers placed on the environment, derived from factors including vehicle emissions and the number sold. GM came out on top, with a 6.5per cent reduction in overall carbon burden, though its carbon emissions rose by 3 per cent. Toyota, while low in CO2, grew its carbon burden by 125 per cent because of an increase in overall sales.

Snapshot: Carbon savings

BMW: reduced 12.3 per cent
Toyota: reduced 3 per cent
Volkswagen: up 1.3 per cent
Subaru: up 1.6 per cent
General Motors: up 3per cent
Mitsubishi: up 4 per cent
Honda: up 4.4 per cent
Ford: up 4.7 per cent
DaimlerChrysler: up 4.8 per cent
Nissan: up 9.2 per cent
Hyundai: up 17 per cent
Kia: up 30 per cent

Written By:Paul Pottinger
Published on:www.carsguide.com.au
Source: US Environmental Defense group

The car features four doors, a sloping coupe roofline and high waist line, oversized wheel arches for the 21in rims, and seating capacity for four. Its front end shares much in common with the current X5 SUV on which it’s based but gets a new CS-Concept inspired front bumper with aluminum underbody protection. The side mirrors also get a new design, made up of two units with a strip of lights between the lower unit finished in body colour and the upper section made of aluminum.

Debuting on the new X6 is BMW’s new ‘Dynamic Performance Control’ technology, a drivetrain and chassis control system combined with xDrive AWD that can send varying levels of torque to the rear wheels when traction is lost. New to the design is the ability to provide its stabilising effect both under power and with the engine in overrun. As soon as the system detects possible over- or understeer of the vehicle, for example in a bend, it will vary the distribution of drive forces between the wheels for perfect stability, dynamic traction, and forward motion.

There is no official word on what engines will be available in the X6, however Budds’ has uncovered some inside information that indicates we will see continued use of BMW’s twin turbo technology not only in a 6 cylinder form, but also in an 8 cylinder form as well. Enjoy the pictures below followed by the official press release.

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Official Press Release:
Inventing the Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV), BMW has established a highly innovative and, indeed, trendsetting segment in the automobile market.

And now the time is ripe for another brand-new concept: The Sports Activity Coupe combining an elegant, dynamically flowing roofline with the typical features of a BMW X model – a truly fascinating combination now borne out for the first time in the guise of BMW Concept X6. Presenting this concept car, BMW is proudly demonstrating the vision of a unique vehicle developing the striking design language of BMW X cars with a clear and consistent focus on sportiness and elegant presence.

BMW Concept X6 captures the eyes of the beholder through its highly innovative combination of design and concept features. The car combines four doors and a dynamically flowing coupe roofline with a high sill-line, muscular wheel arches, and a strong centre of gravity positioned right in the middle and making a clear reference to four-wheel-drive technology.

The result is a unique vehicle clearly presenting the DNA of a BMW X model but interpreting the character of such a vehicle in a unique and truly sporting manner. The design of BMW Concept X6 is the authentic visualisation of outstanding driving qualities borne out by the car mainly through BMW’s intelligent xDrive technology as well as Dynamic Performance Control.

Unique, aesthetic look: dynamic coupe line and the typical features of a BMW X model.

The front end of BMW Concept X6 is dominated by highlights in design clearly symbolising the car’s dynamic orientation to the road. From the side, in turn, the proportions are definitely elegant, the short front body overhang emphasising the dynamism of the car, the long overhang at the rear, its stretched and sleek look. The long line of the engine compartment lid merges smoothly and gently into the elegantly rising A-pillars, the greenhouse moved far to the back and the roofline tapering out clearly and consistently from the B-pillars interacting with the high window line to provide low and, indeed, almost flat window graphics.

The roofline, in turn, flows down gently to the rear spoiler, finally moving up again slightly in a small upward swing perfecting the overall line of a coupe and at the same time optimising the car’s aerodynamic qualities.

The dynamically stretched side lines highlight the aesthetic effect of this concept car, with BMW Concept X6 obtaining its impressive presence clearly through the unique combination of these lines and the design elements of a BMW X car.

Apart from the high window line, the large wheel arches and the centre of gravity visibly in the middle of the car, particularly this distinctive and powerful interaction of convex and concave surfaces, of the muscular side-sills with running boards made of drilled aluminium beneath the doors and the strong underfloor protection elements front and rear also made of aluminium express all the genuine DNA of BMW X.

Consistent focus on sporting performance.

BMW Concept X6 combines the design features so typical of a BMW X model with a truly individual, aesthetic look. In its character and design, this concept car stands out clearly from BMW’s highly successful SAV models, although the core features of those models provide a strong and sound foundation for the development of a unique personality in the guise of BMW Concept X6 as the Sports Activity Coupe.

With its impressively dynamic driving characteristics, the BMW X5 already excels as a true exception in its segment, and was indeed the forerunner creating the entire segment in the first place. Now BMW Concept X6 provides a clear impression of how an even more consistent focus on sporting performance in this class is able to set standards once again.

Through its design alone, this new concept car arouses the greatest expectations of the driving experience in a Sports Activity Coupe, bearing out the robustness and superior traction of a BMW X model in combination with dynamic driving qualities never seen before in this segment of the market.

World debut: Dynamic Performance Control in BMW Concept X6.

Dynamic Performance Control making its world debut in BMW Concept X6 provides ideal qualities for experiencing new dimensions in driving dynamics. This drivetrain and chassis control system, combined with BMW’s intelligent xDrive all-wheel drive technology, offers a truly unique standard of driving stability in every situation, benefiting both driving dynamics and safety at the same time.

Dynamic Performance Control, a truly innovative system, spreads out drive forces as required in all situations, feeding a varying degree of power whenever required to the two wheels at the rear.

Dynamic Performance Control is the only system of its kind in the world able to provide its stabilising effect both under power and with the engine in overrun. As soon as the system detects possible over- or understeer of the vehicle, for example in a bend, it will vary the distribution of drive forces between the wheels for perfect stability, dynamic traction, and forward motion. And in the process Dynamic Performance Control improves driving stability at all speeds, this unique chassis and suspension innovation ensuring not only safe traction when setting off and precise control when entering a bend, but also higher lateral acceleration and optimum directional stability when accelerating out of the bend.

BMW – setting the standard in a dynamically growing market segment.

Launching BMW Concept X6, BMW is once again proving the company’s outstanding competence in the development of new car concepts. First, this fascinating study shows how the range of BMW X models highly successful the world over might be extended by yet another exclusive version; second, BMW Concept X6 presents the possibility to experience the sporting performance so typical of the brand in entirely new style and with brand-new features. The highly innovative Sports Activity Coupe created in this way is therefore once again paving the way into a dynamically growing market segment.

BMW Concept X6 is beyond comparison with any existing series production vehicle the world over. But at the same time it creates clear references and associations through its unique, sophisticated design, the world’s first Sports Activity Coupe guiding the fantasy of the particularly demanding motorist in a clearly defined direction: this car promises driving dynamics in a dimension never seen before.

Yet a further point is that BMW Concept X6, through its extravagant look and appearance, opens up very tempting perspectives for the future, this Sports Activity Coupe boasting design ideally suited to prove individual style and character.

Unique, innovative – and BMW all the way.

BMW Concept X6 is unique and brand-new in the world of the automobile. But it nevertheless stands out as a genuine BMW at first sight, all design features of this concept study clearly reflecting the particular language of BMW design. Indeed, through its design language alone BMW Concept X6 makes a number of clear and highly recognisable statements simply because they are quite unique in this constellation: The car expresses sporting elegance, superior presence and stylish extravagance as well as the symbiosis of superior power and outstanding robustness so characteristic of a BMW X car and now enhanced to a significantly higher standard in BMW Concept X6.

Clear orientation towards the product features characterising the concept of a Sports Activity Coupe gives BMW Concept X6 a fascinating look right from the start. Through its design alone, this car expresses the features essential to such an innovative vision of a completely new car. Conversely, this design principle now arouses the expectation that a BMW Sports Activity Coupe may well develop precisely the outstanding sportiness and superior power both on the road and offroad clearly borne out by this concept study.

So it is precisely the unique features of the vehicle that lead to its unmistakable design. And it is this authentic design so typical of a BMW which gives the BMW Concept X6 its individual style and character and also reflects the image of the brand. In other words – only BMW is able to create a Sports Activity Coupe, and BMW Concept X6 shows what such a car must look like. Front end with dynamic orientation to the road.

BMW Concept X6 stands out clearly as a genuine BMW from every angle. This is ensured primarily by the sculptural shape and design of the car characteristic of all BMW X models, the front, side and rear areas merging smoothly into one another, the car’s shapes and surfaces forming one common unit.

Individual details also bear out the design so typical of the BMW brand, ranging from the BMW kidney grille with its dual round headlights cut away at the side and the powerful contour line along the flanks of the vehicle all the way to the horizontal lines accentuating the sheer width of the car.

Like on the BMW X5, the fundamental look and impression of the front area of this concept car symbolises powerful presence right from the start. But given the large share of surfaces finished in body colour, the front end nevertheless creates an impression of lower height, emphasising the dynamic, road-going orientation of this Sports Activity Coupe.

The DNA of BMW X is also to be admired on the engine compartment lid and the structure of the almost vertical BMW kidney grille, with its slats finished in high-quality titanium colour. In addition, clear signs of distinction to be admired in many details serve to accentuate the sporting potential of this high performer.

Large air intake scoops positioned far to the outside not only bear testimony to the cooling requirements of an engine one can rightly expect to be particularly powerful, but also show a clear orientation, together with the side panels extending far to the inside beyond the headlights, to the wheels, emphasising how stable the car is on the road.

The air intakes are split horizontally by chrome-coloured bars also supporting the surrounds on the round foglamps. The contour of the central air intake, finally, is characterised by lines oriented to the outside, again providing a clear optical orientation to the road as such.

Through their design sharply cut across at the top, the dual round headlights typical of BMW express a particularly intense and focused look. Hence, the entire vehicle will appear to be concentrating even more on the road ahead. The outer contours of the headlight units, in turn, extend far into the side panels, making the front overhang look shorter than it really is and giving the vehicle an even more sporting and dynamic appearance from the side.

Side view: characteristic wedge shape, dynamic roofline.

The unique proportions of BMW Concept X6 are particularly clear from the side, the gently tapering roofline and the long body overhang at the rear giving the car its stretched and sleek coupe silhouette.

The roofline itself reaches its highest point directly behind the steering wheel, highlighting the driver’ position and creating an effect most appropriate for the extravagant design of BMW Concept X6. The chrome surrounds on the side windows, in turn, made of one piece, accentuate the sheer elegance of the vehicle, while the absence of pillars dividing the side area gives the window graphics a completely homogeneous look making the entire vehicle appear lighter and almost transparent.

The counter-flowing line at the bottom of the D-pillar so characteristic of BMW and well-known to the connoisseur as the “Hofmeister kick” stands out clearly towards the rear of the window frame, while slender plastic protection panels at the bottom edge of the bumpers, the side-sills and wheel arches discreetly allude to the robust character of BMW Concept X6.

The side-walls are split by two intuitively contoured lines merging slightly towards one another at the front of the car and thus creating a wedge shape signalising the forward-pushing motion of BMW X6.

The contour line extending to the rear at the level of the door openers comes out particularly clearly, emphasising the dynamic wedge shape of the car further accentuated by the growing distance between the shoulder line and the sill-line towards the rear end extending all the way to the rear lights to give the entire vehicle an even sleeker and more stretched-out look. The second character line runs parallel to the side-sills, half-way between the contour and the sill-line. Both front and rear, this second character line ends where the large and muscular wheel arches bulge strongly out of the side panels.

Reflecting the usual style and character of a BMW X model, the wheel arches are almost square in their contours, offering sufficient space for light-alloy rims measuring no less than 21 inches, with Y-spoke design created specifically for BMW Concept X6.

The exterior mirrors on BMW Concept X6 likewise come in brand-new, innovative design. They are made up of two units with a white-glistening strip of lights between the lower unit finished in body colour and the upper section of the mirror cap made of aluminium. This row of lights supplements the corona rings in the headlights so typical of BMW and serving as daytime driving lights.

BMW Concept X6 provides particularly powerful interaction of concave and convex surfaces between the characteristic lines of the side panels. The play of light and shade created in this way gives the entire vehicle an unusually muscular look, visualising the agility so typical of a Sports Activity Coupe in a particularly fascinating manner. And the generous surfaces also emphasise the powerful presence of the vehicle, while the elegant lines structuring these surfaces are a clear expression of its elegance.

Strong shoulders and powerful roadholding distinguishing the rear end.

The rear end of BMW Concept X6 offers a fascinating combination of elegance, sportiness and robustness in one smooth and harmonious symbiosis. The muscular bumper and the protective underfloor panel are classic design elements of a BMW X car. In addition, the proportions typical also of a coupe are borne out here in design language again characteristic of BMW X, with the greenhouse featuring an unusually angled rear window tapering out to the rear.

The stable grip on the road emphasised by the powerful rear section is expressed above all by the equally powerful and elegant shoulder sections, another feature typical of a coupe being the rear lid integrating a striking air flow contour lip.

The entire rear end is split and characterised by horizontal lines making the rear end look even wider and emphasising the powerful stance of the car on the road, in the process creating attractive interplay of convex and concave surfaces.

The rear end reaches its full width in the area of the wheel arches, the two exhaust tailpipes positioned far to the outside and featuring high-quality surrounds together with a trapezoidal contour guiding the eyes of the beholder to the wheels.

The distinctive light edge along the lower section of the bumper provides yet a further highlight referring in particular to the ground clearance of BMW Concept X6 so typical of a BMW X car. Again, it is details of this kind that characterise the exclusivity and refined nature of the world’s first Sports Activity Coupe.

The rear lights, in their design, likewise reflect the unique character of BMW Concept X6, re-interpreting the L-shape so typical of BMW’s X models and adding a dynamic, sweeping line. Extending far into the side walls, the rear lights again express the full width of the car also through its night design.

Extravagance and dynamic design for a unique driving experience.

In its design and looks, BMW Concept X6 sets new standards and leaves a lasting impression, the concept study presenting brand-new options in expressing sportiness and modern elegance. Creating a car which combines the dynamic lines of a coupe with the superior power and refined robustness of a BMW X car, BMW is once again entering new terrain in the market segment of all-wheel-drive luxury cars, where the BMW X5 has already shown how dynamic driving qualities may well become a decisive criterion in a new segment. The BMW X3 then added outstanding agility as a further factor for success, and now BMW Concept X6 stands for the ongoing continuation of these priorities.

Despite its consistently sporting orientation, BMW Concept X6 retains the full character of a BMW X model, which indeed makes this concept study particularly appealing. Hence, BMW Concept X6 features not only the dynamic flair of a coupe, but also four doors, a large rear lid and a wide range of attributes, that is all the fortes of a BMW X model. And it is precisely this combination that expresses the extravagance and thrill of a brand-new car concept as well as the innovative power of the BMW brand.

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.

While it may seem superfluous, every gauge or light has a story to tell and in virtually every case failure to listen to that tale can have disastrous and expensive repercussions.

Let’s get the obvious ones out of the way first — speedometer and fuel level. No need for explanation here.

Next up in order of significance — the oil pressure gauge or light. Oil is literally the lifeblood or fluid that keeps an engine alive. Not only does it provide the lubrication that allows metal pieces to rub together without damage, it acts as a coolant, drawing heat away from these high-stress locations.

The oil is circulated and squirted in critical areas under pressure, provided by a pump. If the pressure drops, the oil is no longer able to provide its vital lubrication role and the various components will very quickly heat up to dangerous levels where they may seize.

This quickly becomes engine failure — very expensive engine failure. Not only will the vehicle come to a complete stop, it won’t move again until you have lubricated the repair shop with thousands of dollars.

The temperature gauge, whether a dial marked with a range from “c” for cold to “h” for hot, or a warning light, provides another critical piece of information.

The temperature gauge does not tell you the temperature of the engine — directly. It shows the temperature of the fluid flowing through the engine.

This fluid carries heat away from the engine to the radiator where it is cooled by the air flowing through it. It then continues its circuitous route back into the engine, lubricating pumps and things on the way.

When the engine is first started after sitting for a period of time, the fluid is at ambient or outside temperature. A thermostat prevents the fluid from going through the radiator until it reaches operating temperature. Until that point, it simply circulates through the engine gaining heat as the big block of metal is heated by the combustion of fuel within the cylinders. As this happens, the temperature gauge will gradually move off the cold mark.

Until that fluid is warm, no heat can be drawn off it for the “heater,” which warms up the interior. When the fluid reaches the proper temperature, the thermostat opens, allowing it to flow through the radiator and monitors that process, opening and closing as necessary to keep the fluid within the proper temperature range.

If the thermostat should fail, or the level of fluid gets too low, the temperature will escalate and the gauge or a warning light will warn of pending problems. If you fail to heed that warning and the engine is allowed to overheat, it can cause catastrophic failure.

The voltmeter or battery gauge tells us of the condition of the electrical circuit. As the engine draws power form the battery for everything from the spark plugs to the power windows, that power has to be replaced — the battery has to be recharged.

There is a whole system of doing this we won’t get into here, but the driver should most definitely check this gauge to ensure the recharging is taking place.

If a belt were to fail or other problem occur that slowed or stopped the recharging process, the instrument will provide the necessary warning, allowing enough time to safely locate service.

The tachometer tells us the speed of the engine — as opposed to the speedometer, which provides vehicle speed information.

The tachometer is commonly marked in single digits ranging from 1 to 7-10. That is in multiples of one thousand so if the needle is on “5″ the engine is turning over or operating at 5,000 revolutions per minute or rpm.

The tachometer is useful for telling the driver when to shift gears. If the vehicle has an automatic transmission, it is not as important. The important factor with relation to the tachometer is to avoid overrevving the engine.

RICHARD RUSSELL
From Thursday’s Globe and Mail

X Country is one of three single-cylinders that try to blend street, off-road performance

If my limited high school algebraic skills are intact, X plus Y equals fun. “X” being BMW’s new 650 cc X Country and “Y” being any road (paved or dirt) that’s not a freeway.

BMW has three new 650 cc single-cylinder motorcycles: the X Moto, X Challenge and X Country. The Moto is a pure street, fat-tired Supermotard, the X Challenge is hardcore off-road, while the X Country is a usable mix of both, with a decided lean toward the street.

The heart of all the X models is a reworked version of the venerable four-valve, DOHC fuel-injected Rotax-built single that’s powered the “F” series motorcycles for the past few years.

The motor is very tractable and, with 53 horsepower and 44 lb.-ft. of torque available, is quite peppy in the 148 kg (325 lb.) X Country chassis.

The large muffler doesn’t really look out of place, tucked up out of the way as it is and, combined with the catalytic converter, the X country meets stringent Euro 3 emissions standards.

The X Country is equipped with gorgeous, superstrong Magura handlebars and levers, and a “normal” single button turn signal switch instead of the usual separate BMW left, right and cancel buttons.

Instrumentation is fairly simple with a large digital speedometer front and centre, an LCD display with selectable dual tripmeters, odometer, clock, voltmeter (how often do you really need to know if the battery is charging?) and a bank of warning lights on the right.

On chilly mornings, I really missed BMW’s traditional heated grips, although they are an option.

The single front disc is a 300 mm floater squeezed by a twin-piston caliper while the rear is a 240 mm single pot unit. Because the X Country is so light, the brakes are more than adequate for both street and trail use. And, for those off-road forays, the ABS can be manually disengaged.

On the street, handling is exemplary. It steers very quickly and the wide bars give excellent leverage around town. The stock Metzeler 19-inch front and 17-inch rear tires strike a very good compromise for the X Country’s intended use. They are excellent on pavement, acceptable on gravel and hardpack, but in soft sand or mud, they contributed to white knuckles and some heart-stopping moments.

The suspension is well-damped and very plush. The rear shock has a generous 210 mm (8.2 inches) of travel, is preload adjustable (courtesy of a handy knob just below the seat), while the front boasts 240 mm (9.4 inches) of travel but no adjustment whatsoever.

Grab a fistful of front brake, pitch the X Country into corners around town and it just rails through. Once in the turn, it holds its line and the supple suspension absorbs mid-corner bumps and heaves.

The beauty of the X Country is its versatility. One afternoon, I was exploring the countryside on a concession road northeast of Bowmanville and noticed one of those “Unimproved roads, use at own risk” signs.

I peeled off and headed north on the gravel road, which soon deteriorated to a single-track bush trail.

Offroad, like most dirt bikes, the X Country performs much better with the rider standing on the pegs in softer stuff. Standing up puts more weight down on the pegs, effectively lowering the centre of gravity and making the motorcycle more stable.

The rubber-covered footpegs insulate the rider from the minimal vibration, but when wet or muddy, quickly turn slippery as crocodile snot – a surefire recipe for a slipped foot and cracked shin.

Shorter riders may find the 840 mm (33.1 inch) seat height a bit of a problem, especially if they’re trying to put a foot down on uneven ground while riding off road.

The short-throw transmission shifts very well, although first gear seems overly low (a real stump puller) with quite a gap to second. The net result when riding on trails is that you’re either revving it too much in first or bogging in second.

The X Country is certainly capable of highway cruising speeds but that’s not really its natural habitat. Really, it’s better suited for casual off-road exploring, gravel roads, two-lane roads and in-town commuting where the torquey motor, light weight and agile handling can be put to good use.

Steve Bond
Toronto Star

When it comes to golf, he is ranked No. 84 in the world. But Brett Quigley’s drive isn’t only on the golf course.

The 38-year-old U.S. golfer has another obsession — cars. As a self-confessed “car nut,” he admits to owning four vehicles. But it’s hard to keep track — he changes them more frequently than his clubs.

His current wheels include an Audi Q7, a Honda Ridgeline and two BMWs, an M3 and an M5. A few months ago, he actually owned four Bimmers, but he just dumped two — a 745 and an X5. “It’s kind of an addiction. It’s my one addiction — I’m not really into anything else, except cars.

“It’s my favourite thing to do after a couple of weeks on the road. I come home and the first thing I do is clean all my cars inside and out and make sure they’re spotless,” he says a few weeks ago, standing in front of a BMW 750i at the Canadian Open at Angus Glen Golf Course in Markham, Ont. As sponsors of the event, BMW lent each golfer a Bimmer for the week.

“Six years ago, I got into an X5 and since then I’ve probably had four X5s. I’d never been a BMW guy, but once I got into the X5, I really loved everything about BMW — the way they drive and the way they ride. And ever since then, I’ve had a few. Right now, I have a 2005 M3 and a 2006 M5.”

He has no plans of parting with the M5 — it’s his favourite of the bunch, even though he’d prefer conventional push buttons for the radio instead of the iDrive system.

“That’s the car I go to the most when I’m home” in West Palm Beach, Fla.

“You can take four people to the golf course, go play golf and treat it like a normal car. But it’s basically a race car in the street, which is great. It’s got a great engine, great sound, and great transmission … .

“The thing I like about it is you can drive the M5 and it doesn’t scream ‘look at me.’ It’s just a very nice car. To a normal person, they’d say it’s just a nice 5-Series. It’s subtle. I have a grey one so it kind of blends in.

“If you have the room, you can drive it like a race car. You can take it on the track and really beat the heck out of the car. The car can take it,” says Quigley, who finished in the top 20 of the PGA Tour money list last year.

Make no mistake, he does let loose — on the track. “I’ve been to about 15 driving schools. I’ve done BMW days in Greenville, [S.C.]. I’ve done a couple three-day schools there with the M3.

“I’ve done a few with my father. We have so much fun. We’re competitive as heck, both on and off the golf course, and it kind of carries over to driving, too.

“They joke at the racetrack — speed is for the speedway and you drive normal on the road. After going to a bunch of the schools, you have a new respect for what the cars can do and certainly you’re a lot more defensive driving on the road, looking out for other people,” Quigley says.

Occasionally, he pushes it on the road, too. “I have been stopped for speeding.

“It’s funny, I got a speeding ticket about two months ago in my pickup. I was doing 78 [miles an hour] in a 65 in Rhode Island. I was actually on my way to the Hartford Open and the guy was a golf fan. It was 5 in the morning and he knew I was going there. He just said, ‘Slow it down a little bit,’ ” says Quigley, who turned professional in 1991.

On the golf course, Quigley perfected his driving skills. “I just grew up around golf, driving golf carts, working at a golf course. I’ve been driving probably since I was 12 — driving equipment, golf carts, tractors and stuff like that.”

But that practice didn’t pay off. “When I was 16, I ran into a fence down a dirt road. We were a bunch of kids just goofing around and we came around a corner too fast and just ran right into a fence.

“The car was an old Buick Regal worth probably 1,000 bucks. And I was actually on the way to a golf tournament and I ran it right into a fence. I popped two tires, smashed the side, and smashed the fence.

“I had to go to the guy’s house and apologize at 6:30 in the morning and pay for the fence. It was a good learning experience.”

Quigley’s first car was a Saab 900 he bought in 1991. As far as his other cars go, there are too many to mention. “You don’t have enough time in the day,” he laughs. “I’m bad like that — I keep it about a year.

“Actually the two BMWs I’ve had for the longest. I’ve had four X5s, a couple of S4 Audis, a bunch of Dodge four-door pickups, and a Honda pickup. It just keeps going on. I won’t get into the other ones,” he says.

Quigley prefers buying over leasing. “I’ve only leased one car in my life. I like buying because, for me, I can get out of it. I’m a little impulsive. If I need to get out of it, I like to have that option. It kills me to think I’ve got to have a car for three years or more at one time. I like being able to change.”

Whatever car he buys, it must have one feature. “Heated seats are the most important thing. I will not buy a car without it. It helps me. It loosens my back up on the way to the golf course,” says the native of Fort Devens, Mass.

Quigley is a bit territorial about some of his cars. His wife, Amy, is allowed to drive them, but prefers not to. “She knows I’m a little crazy about it. She says it’s too much pressure to drive my cars,” says the new father. Amy went into labour with their first child, Lily, in Florida during a practice round at his first Masters Tournament in Augusta in April.

Quigley says he will never buy an exotic car. “I’m not a big Ferrari or Lamborghini guy. I’d be afraid to take it to the grocery store.” Instead, he has his heart set on a new BMW 7-Series Alpina — it’ll be the perfect grocery-getter to add to his garage.

PETRINA GENTILE ZUCCO
From Thursday’s Globe and Mail