This BMW X6 Hybrid is the result of the company's collaboration with Daimler, General Motors and the former Chrysler. The companies banded together years ago to develop the two-mode hybrid transmission that lies at the heart of the system. GM and Chrysler eventually built hybrid Escalades, Tahoes and a few Durangos before bowing out of the deal, while Mercedes and BMW soldiered on.
Mercedes is just about to roll out an ML450 hybrid using the technology, so BMW will be the last to market with the X6 hybrid. Still, the company thinks it was worth the effort. BMW officials say the X6 hybrid is tuned for much sportier performance than the Mercedes ML hybrid.
Peter Tunnermann, project leader for the X5/X6 hybrids, told us that the ML was tuned primarily for smooth shifting and improved efficiency. The X6, on the other hand, emphasizes the added performance potential of its advanced drivetrain with higher horsepower and torque numbers than the ML450. Combined mileage for the X6 Hybrid is still expected to be around 18 mpg, so even with the X6's additional power, it will be more efficient than the standard V8.
You'll have to be ready to pay up for the technology, though, as the X6 is expected to carry a price in the mid-$80,000s. Expensive yes, but BMW isn't expecting to sell many X6 Hybrids. It's a halo car that the company hopes will attract those willing to pay for the latest technology. Didn't work all that well for Lexus. We'll see if BMW's image can pull it off a little more successfully.
carluvr1 says:
10:12 PM, 09/15/09
Everyday in Redondo i see a fleet of bimmers one was an X6 hybrid the other two were the new 5 series and 5 series GT in camo... along with mercedes ml hybrids... Quick ? is mercedes planning a hybrid GL450 cause i've seen one roaming around the beach for testing a couple of times with some engineers..
zoomzoomn says:
05:05 AM, 09/16/09
Yikes! $80 large!?! Why do hybrids keep having to be "halo" cars. I mean, I know that somebody has to pay for any investment made in developing such a technology, but if your everyday person can't ever afford anything more than a Prius or Insight, what's the point?