Besides the production BMW X6, BMW also shows the BMW X6 ActiveHybrid concept at the NAIAS 2008 in Detroit.

The BMW Concept X6 ActiveHybrid allows far greater driving dynamics than a conventional hybrid car and at the same time reduces fuel consumption by up to 20% versus a comparable car running on a combustion engine alone.

BMW ActiveHybrid combines a combustion engine with two high-performance electric motors, taking advantage of the greater efficiency of hybrid technology over a much larger speed range than with conventional hybrid vehicles.

The active transmission featured by the BMW Concept X6 ActiveHybrid combines two compact, high-performance electric motors with a transmission using fixed transmission ratios. These drive systems are connected to one another by three planetary gearsets allowing a power split covering the drive forces of the combustion engine and the electric motors in two transmission modes.

The BMW Concept X6 ActiveHybrid can be driven on electric power only, on the combustion engine alone or with a combination of both power units. Depending on driving conditions, the electric motors may also be used for both accelerating and regenerative application of the brakes, in which case the brake forces generated when coasting and when applying the brakes flow to the high-volt energy storage unit to provide an increase in electric power.

The BMW Group has joined forces with General Motors and DaimlerChrysler to form the Global Hybrid Cooperation, serving to develop the next generation of hybrid drive systems. These three equal partners pool their know-how and resources in the GM, Daimler, Chrysler and BMW Hybrid Development Center in Troy (Michigan, USA), concentrating in the process on a flexible system concept allowing each of the companies involved to integrate the particular concept, design and construction of their cars in the new technology, focusing on the specific features of each brand.

The Detroit Auto Show 2008 (NAIAS 2008) is taking place this week. See the hottest car announcements in our Car and Vehicle section.