LA Auto Show - 2011 BMW ActiveHybrid 7

The BMW 7-Series has a new, more powerful techno-brother. The BMW ActiveHybrid 7 was shown as a concept at last year's Los Angeles Auto Show and, with a few technical refinements, has now been announced as a production model that will start at $103,125. Also shown at the Frankfurt Auto Show (IAA) last September, the sedan pairs a 3-phase electric motor with a twin-turbocharged V-8 engine that, when you add the nearly 5,000 pounds the car weighs, gets around 20 mpg in city driving.

The technology has already been pioneered in the X6 ActiveHybrid, and unlike most hybrids, doesn't spare the speed. It gets a combined 455 horsepower, achieving 0-60 in just 4.7 seconds. The 120-volt lithium-ion electric engine, however, will go just 1.5 miles to a speed of 37 mph before the gas engine begins its work. Also, its curb weight adds 221 pounds to the car.

For a brand known for its fuel-gulping sports cars, BMW has faced a sales challenge in the past year. Head of sales, Ian Robertson noted that this issue is currently being addressed with new, upcoming products: "It's been a very challenging year, but we're in a good position... Between 2010 and 2012 we will replace around 60% of our current volume of vehicles."

Is it worth the green bragging rights? Perhaps, for a certain upscale, environmentally conscious and tech-friendly customer. The hybrid powertrain will make them feel good, and unique exterior features like the stunning Bluewater Metallic exterior paint and ten-spoke 19" aero wheels will look fabulous in their posh driveways.

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