BMW 'M' to use hybrid in the long-term

We’ve previously heard that that BMW’s M division is considering V6 turbocharged engines for future M models to cut CO2 emissions. Well, now BMW M GmbH is reportedly considering hybrid-drive in the long-term. Currently, output of conventional combination of a gasoline-engine and electric motor is still too low for the high-performance division to put into production models.

According to BMW M GmbH head of development Albert Biermann, BMW is looking to transfer over the technology it will start using in its Formula 1 cars in the 2009 season called KERS. KERS, which stands for Kinetic Energy Recovery System, has a hybrid module consisting of an electric motor, generator and a battery.

The hybrid module is said to be five times smaller...
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HSCenterconsole - 7/25/2008 1:37:33 PM

+5 Boost

I'm sure they are considering turbocharged INLINE six's, but not V6's. EGMCartech should know their brands better.

Autoegr525 - 7/25/2008 6:06:18 PM

+4 Boost

You got that right, there will never be a BMW V6. I'd like to see an electric powered turbocharger on an inline 6, that would be a hybrid worthy of an M badge.

DexDiamonds - 7/25/2008 1:40:43 PM

-1 Boost

No V8 or V10??? I wonder if they can mimic the feeling, passion, and sound you get from having a big engine under the hood?

Brembo - 7/25/2008 3:04:48 PM

+3 Boost

EASY!

enthusiastx11 - 7/25/2008 3:05:17 PM

+2 Boost

v8 and v10 are very recent additions to the M lineup.

M has traditionally been about high-output inline 6s paired with a phenomenal chassis/suspension.

85bmw745i - 7/28/2008 2:17:18 AM

+1 Boost

And don't forget the 1st generation e30 M3 had an inline 4 cylinder

enthusiastx11 - 7/25/2008 3:03:45 PM

+3 Boost

a V6? doubt it. inlines have been the heart of the brand for decades.

mpwr - 7/25/2008 4:11:28 PM

+2 Boost

This article is wrong, BMW is not using KERS which is a entirely mechanical regenerative system. There system does use a electric motor and generator, but is not KERS.

PrancingHorse - 7/26/2008 6:12:45 AM

-1 Boost

I hope the next generation of Ms lose a lot of weight,have more of a differnt design than non M models,and have high strung high output smaller dispalcement engines than todays Ms.Also please bmw make the Ms more about driving rather than 10 million electronic settings which dont work.