BMW will bring first hybrid model in the summer of 2009

When unveiling the new BMW 7-Series ActiveHybrid, BMW also announced the first hybrid model from the company will come in 2009. It’s main competitor should be the 2010 Mercedes-Benz S400 BlueHYBRID.

The BMW ActiveHybrid technology featured in the concept car reduces both fuel consumption and emissions by 15% versus the same car with a combustion engine. The BMW Concept 7 Series ActiveHybrid combines an eight-cylinder gasoline engine and an electric motor developing 20 hp and maximum torque of 155 lb-ft as a mild hybrid concept.

Electric power is generated by a more powerful variant of Brake Energy Regeneration already featured in the BMW Group’s regular production cars. The energy generated in this way is then stored in a lithium-ion battery fitted beneath the luggage compartment.