BMW 5-series hybrid to receive Tokyo debut
Photo credit: BMW
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BMW AG will show a 5-series hybrid sedan called the ActiveHybrid 5 at the Tokyo Motor Show later this month as part of an unfolding strategy to improve fuel economy without compromising driving dynamics.
It will be the third gasoline-electric hybrid in the BMW lineup when it goes on sale in the United States next spring.
It is powered by a twin-turbo six-cylinder in-line engine and an electric motor for a combined 340 hp, mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission. The car can drive in electric model up to 37 mph, BMW says.
The 55 hp electric motor runs off a lithium-ion battery housed in the trunk.
BMW said the ActiveHybrid 5 will also provide drivers with a boost function to deliver more dynamic acceleration and enable the car to coast with the combustion engine switched off.
In addition, it is equipped with a smart energy management system that works with the navigation system to prepare the car's drive functions for upcoming road conditions.
BMW also markets a gasoline-electric hybrid version of the 7-series sedan and X6 sport-utility vehicle.
BMW will add a fourth hybrid late next year with the launch of the new generation 3-series lineup. The redesigned 3 series sedan debuts in February. The ActiveHybrid 3 will use the same gasoline-electric powerplant as the 5-series.
The automaker already sells two diesel models in the United States, the X5 xDrive35d crossover and the 335d 3-series.
BMW will add electric cars to its product lineup in 2013 when the new i sub-brand debuts with the i3 four-seat rear-wheel-drive car, followed by the i8 two-plus-two coupe in 2014.
You can reach Diana T. Kurylko at dkurylko@crain.com. -- Follow Diana on 
