On 23rd July 2014, BMW introduced the hybrid model of its flagship ‘7 series’ called ActiveHybrid 7 – something that is still considered to be the niche segment in the Indian market! The launch function took place in the city of Gurgaon.
While expressing his confidence about the success of ActiveHybrid 7 in Indian market, Mr. Philipp von Sahr, President, BMW Group India, said, “The ActiveHybrid 7 introduces a fundamentally new driving experience in the luxury segment that India has never seen before. It is the perfect choice to savour the agility and performance of a BMW 7 Series in a hybrid vehicle, without having to compromise in any way on comfort or spaciousness.”
BMW ActiveHybrid 7 manifests a successful marriage of present day advanced combustion engine and futuristic electric drive technology. Under the hood lies BMW TwinPower Turbo 6 cylinder inline 2979cc petrol engine which is capable of generating an enormous power of 320Hp @ 5800 rpm and a stunning torque output of 450Nm @ 1300- 4500 rpm. In spite of being powerful, it performs equally well on fuel efficiency front by giving an average of 13.85 km/lit. This engine is assisted by an electric motor of power output 55Hp. The electric motor obtains electrical energy from an advanced Lithium ion battery. An 8 speed steptronic automatic transmission sets wheels into motion.
ActiveHybrid 7 intelligently monitors and utilises every single unit of energy that is provided by both engine and battery, with the most advanced energy management function. It also incorporates innovative technologies like brake energy regeneration.
From safety point of view, this car is engineered to pay attention to every minute detail of occupant protection. Features like three point seatbelts on all seats, ABS (Antilock Braking System), DSC (Dynamic Stability Control), Cruise Control, Run-flat tyres, vehicle immobiliser, Adaptive LED headlights and many more are all a part of standard fitment.
In addition, a special feature known as ‘BMW Night Vision with Dynamic Light Spot’ takes the safety of this vehicle to a new height. This system works with the help of a thermal imaging camera fitted in the left kidney grille and a radar system. By continuously monitoring the road ahead, this system warns the driver whenever an obstacle like a person or an animal comes in front of vehicle thereby avoiding the unwanted accidents. The warning is given either in the form of an indication in multifunctional instrument display or a highlighted image in the headup display. According to the claim of company, this system works effectively up to a distance of 300m.
BMW ActiveHybrid 7 bears a price tag of 1.35 crores ex-showroom and is available for sale only in three cities i.e. Delhi, Mumbai and Chennai.
