The BMW X6 Hybrid is a powerhouse. The new X6 starts at $90,000 USD, and has all the features you might expect from any high end BMW, gas powered or otherwise. The X6 Hybrid is very similar gas powered versions of the car.
The X6 is claimed as the most powerful hybrid in the world, and the two-mode hybrid drive train is unique. The power plant features a 400 hp twin-turbo V8 and 2 electric motors, at about 90 and 85 hp each.
The combined system produces some 575 ft-lb or torque. For comparison the 2012 Ford F-350 pickup truck with the 6.0-liter Power Stroke Diesel is rated at 525 ft-lb torque.
For further comparison, the F-350 weighs in at about 5,500 lbs dry. Believe it or not, the 2011 X6 Hybrid is listed to tip the scales at nearly 5,700 lbs! Maybe it could be rigged to tow.
Performance of the X6 is a quick 5.4 sec 0-60 time, limited to 130 mph on the top end. The battery pack is good for 37 mph for up to 1.6 miles. The 2.4 kWh pack is nickel metal hydride, not Li-Ion as you might expect, and is liquid cooled. The pack can be recharged by braking energy from the car during normal braking.
Fuel economy is around 17/19 city/highway. While this is actually not too bad for a very fast 3 ton automobile, it is more gray than green, despite the hybrid badge.
BMW X6 Hybrid - 575 ft lbs torque
Ford F-350 - 525 ft lbs torque
Two Mode electric motors and gears
used by BMW and Cadillac Hybrids
Current BMW Hybrids include the X6 Hybrid Electric and the i3 and i8 Plug in Electric Hybrid Vehicles.
The BMW X6 Hybrid Electric Vehicle
BMW i3 Hybrid
The BMW i3 is to be produced as a battery electric and hybrid electric vehicle. The BEV is not yet complete, data from the Active E leasing program will be incorporated into final designs. The i3 HEV will offer a battery pack and onboard range extending gas burner.
The i3 features a light weight body constructed of carbon fiber reinforced plastic. The underpinning chassis is aluminum for further weight production. Total weight is 2,800 pounds. Performance is achieved by pushing the 2,800 pound unit around with a 168 hp, 184 ft-lb torque electric motor. Zero to 60 mph happens in under 8 seconds. The i3 also offers up adjustable regenerative braking.
BMW i8 Plug In Hybrid
The i8 PHEV is one snappy looking car. It is powered by a 3 cylinder gas burner turning the rear axle, and an electric motor spinning the front wheels. The battery pack is designed to give the car 50/50 weight distribution...important for that BMW performance on the curves. Performance is rated at zero to 60 mph in under 5 seconds with a top end of 155 mph. MPG of the car can reach some 78 mpg.
