What is it?
The BMW Active Hybrid concept, based on BMW's X3 SUV, features a transmission that houses an electric motor and high-performance capacitors rather than a large battery pack. Twin clutches replace the torque converter found in most automatic transmissions. One clutch connects the gas engine to the electric motor while the other connects the electric motor to the transmission. BMW uses an inline six-cylinder engine with high-pressure, direct injection for efficient fuel delivery. The engine also uses electric motors for the steering, braking, and air conditioning systems, rather than toothed rubber belts. Startup is handled entirely by the electric motor; after the vehicle begins to move the gasoline engine takes over. The 0-to-60-mph time is approximately 6.7 seconds, and BMW claims that the Active Hybrid returns 20 percent better fuel economy than the regular X3.
What's new or notable?
Rather than using a large battery pack, like current production hybrid vehicles, the Active Hybrid concept vehicle features capacitors that can absorb and release electricity very rapidly.
