While we’re still trying to figure out what’s so efficient and ‘hybridish’ about a saloon the size of the 7-Series that’s equipped with a twin-turbocharged 4.4-liter V8 petrol engine, let us tell you that 7-Series ActiveHybrid concept car that will make its debut at the Paris Show in October previews BMW’s first production hybrid model that’s set to go on sale this time next year. Largely based on the new 750i, the ActiveHybrid is equipped with the same mild hybrid system as the Mercedes-Benz S400 BlueHYBRID. And if you’re wondering why, the system was co-developed by BMW, Merc and GM. -Continued

The 7-Series ActiveHybrid uses the 750i’s 4.4-liter twin-turbo V8 engine that delivers 407 HP with peak torque of 600 Nm or 442 lb-ft combined with an electric motor fully integrated in the transmission housing, developing maximum output of 15 kW/20 hp and peak torque of 210 Newton-metres/155 lb-ft (just like in the case of Merc’s S400 BlueHYBRID).

Electric power is provided by BMW’s latest variant of Brake Energy Regeneration. The energy generated this way is then stored in a high-performance lithium-ion battery. But unlike Mercedes which managed to house the battery in the engine compartment, BMW integrated it in the luggage compartment. As with most BMW’s today, the ActiveHYBRID also features an auto-start-stop function that prevents the combustion engine from running in the idle mode.

BMW has yet to announce official performance or consumption figures for the 7-Series ActiveHYBRID, but the Bavarian automaker did say that the drivetrain technology featured in the concept car combines enhanced driving dynamics together with a reduction of fuel consumption and emissions by 15 per cent in the EU test cycle versus the conventional 750i.