BMW has taken the wraps off its latest addition to the
BMW 7-Series model
range.
The
BMW Hydrogen 7 represents the world's first hydrogen-powered luxury performance
sedan and is key to BMW's CleanEnergy strategy which strives to use advanced
technology to wean customers off fossil fuels. The BMW Hydrogen 7 features a
dual-power, 260HP 12-cylinder engine which allows it to use hydrogen and
gasoline power. When running on hydrogen power alone, the range of the BMW
Hydrogen 7 is 125 miles. Switching over to gasoline mode brings an additional
300 miles of range. Given the added weight and complexity of the car (as well as
the 12-cylinder's power downgrade to 260HP from 438HP on the 760i), performance
is also down. The BMW Hydrogen 7 can go from 0-60 in 9.5 seconds (as opposed to
5.4 seconds) and features a top speed of 143MPH (down from 155MPH).
The four-seat BMW Hydrogen 7 may feature a unique powertrain, but it's still a
7-Series at heart. It features all of the luxury touches and gadgets that make
the 7-Series one of the premiere luxury sedans in the world. Features like the
AdaptiveDrive anti-roll stability system, automatic climate control, heated
seats for all passengers, Park Distance Control, Soft Close automatic doors,
night vision and adaptive headlights are all a part of the package. The German
automaker is expected to put the BMW Hydrogen 7 into production in April of
2007. Pricing hasn't been announced yet, but if you have to ask...
In other news,
Audi has unveiled Q7 V12 TDI with an engine producing 500 horsepower and 738
pound-feet of torque (1000 nm). The Crossover has a max speed of 155 mph and
hits from o to 62 mph in under 5.5 seconds. Maximum torque is available from
just 1,750 rpm. The engine features the world's first 2,000 bar Bosch Common
Rail system. Up to 2,000 bar of pressure is kept within the twelve piezo
injectors - a further technological breakthrough. Unlike other Audi V-engines,
this model features a special cylinder angle of 60 degrees. The Q7 V12 TDI gives
20 miles to the gallon (11.9 liters per 100 kms).
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