km : Automotive News

BMW unveiled a hybrid-powered version of its new F10 5 Series sedan today at the Geneva Motor Show. The concept, naturally called 5 Series ActiveHybrid, marries the new single-turbo inline-six gas engine to a single electric motor mounted between the engine and the eight-speed automatic transmission.

As with the drivetrain in the X6 ActiveHybrid and the 7 Series ActiveHybrid, the 5 Series can be driven for short periods at low speeds in full electric mode, or the electric motor can aid in acceleration without the added consumption of a larger gas engine.This integrated "sandwiched" arrangement of the hybrid drivetrain saves weight and space. The electric motor replaces the torque converter and the conventional starter motor, and from our experience driving the X6 Hybrid, delivers a seamless transition between modes.



This concept marks the first time BMW has paired an electric drivetrain with one of its turbo-charged six-cylinder engines. As with previous hybrid concepts, this one looks to be close to production-ready. We would expect to see a 5 Series ActiveHybrid in showrooms by this time next year.

Below is the full press release from BMW at our BMW enthusiast site, MWerks.com.

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