Spied: BMW twin-turbo 535i rocketship goes the hybrid way

BMW 5 Series Hybrid

BMW had the Concept 5 Series ActiveHybrid on display at the 2010 Geneva auto show and by the looks of it will soon make it to production. Latest test mule grabs confirm that BMW has actually shoved in a hybrid power system into its twin-turbocharged 535i petrol car which uses an eight-speed automatic gearbox seen on most bimmers lately. The electric drive is capable of delivering upto 54 hp.

BMW 5 Series Hybrid

According to BMW, the hybrid power train reduces both fuel consumption and emissions by more than 10 per cent over the conventional version and more importantly allows for all-electric, zero-emission motoring at low speeds.

From an Indian market perspective, a diesel-hybrid will be a better option for India. BMW might consider a diesel-hybrid version other than opting for the top-of-the-line petrol engined 5-Series which is jolly expensive in the standard configuration. A 525d- hybrid or a 530d-hybrid would probably make sense. 535i has had a rough time in India. It is a good car without a hint of doubt, but people who buy one aren’t that concerned about their fuel bills. Our pick for an eco-friendly hybrid powertrain will be the 525d.