Reaching new levels!

It is not new news that BMW has always distinguished its M Division models with unique engines, but this one is power to the max! The M Hybrid system with V8 engine and intelligent charging system not only boasts an impressive maximum output like no other, but presents power delivery that is truly instantaneous. This engine takes drivers from the race track right to the road! See what this power-packed system has in store!

Here’s more….

What we know!

The new Hybrid system consists of a new extensively updated 4.4-litre V8 engine with M TwinPower Turbo technology and an electric motor that is integrated into the eight-speed M Steptronic transmission. Thanks to this engine, vehicles get their power via the all-wheel drive system M xDrive.

Its powertrain delivers a whopping maximum output of 480 kW (653 hp) and 800 Nm or 590 lb-ft of system torque. This is generated by the combination of a combustion engine with up to 360 kW (489 hp) and an electric drive system with up to 145 kW (197 hp). The first-ever plug-in hybrid model from BMW M GmbH also enables pure-electric driving over a range of 82 to 88 kilometres (51-55 miles) in the WLTP cycle.

The V8 engine gets its support from an electric motor which is a product of fifth-generation BMW eDrive technology. The permanently synchronous motor integrated with the eight-speed M Steptronic transmission and responds to the slightest of movements of the accelerator. The end result? The agility and dynamism of a high-performance car is taken to a whole new level!

Dubbed “S68,” this engine will be used in more than just M cars in the future, as well as several upcoming M Performance cars. The reason for the latter is that detuning an actual M engine gives M Performance cars that extra dose of character and fun. Another reason has to do with emissions. For example, the BMW N63 and its S63 sibling are becoming unusable due in large part to stricter Euro 7 emissions regulations. BMW needed a new engine for these cars and its M cars and found it easier and less expensive to develop one engine and detune it for lesser models.

This “S68” is another 4.4-liter twin-turbocharged V8 with a hot-eve design. Within the BMW X7 M60 I, it makes 530 hp, seven more horsepower than the standard N63 that powered the pre-LCI X7 M50i.

This engine boasts key updates including a new crankshaft, oil cooler, oil sump, upgraded turbochargers, and an all-new electric VANOS system. It also is different due to its 48-volt mild-hybrid system. Rather than the small electric motor that attached to the crankshaft of the engine, this new electric motor is built into the transmission and therefore delivers its power directly to the powertrain. The result is that these vehicles coast slightly better through its auto-start/stop, as well as restart at a set of lights much better.

A new transmission is also realized, with the ZF eight-speed unit receiving an all-new design.

As a result of this new engine, the M versions of the S68 will be among a unique and elite set. They will have their own power, performance, tuning and response, and in some instances, electrification.

As if instantaneous power is not enough, this whole new level comes with a sound all its own! Power delivery is joined with an energy-charged soundtrack for this eight-cylinder unit. Providing the distinctive acoustics are two electronically controlled and continuously adjustable flaps in the sports exhaust system. Unique visuals also mark this system, including two pairs of dual tailpipes, each arranged above the other.

An intelligent, Combined Charging Unit is made clear within the system and enables AC charging at up to 7.4 kW. The system also features a Launch Control function which enables traction-optimized acceleration off the line with maximum dynamism. Three different driving modes are also available. They include the Hybrid mode, which is the default setting that gives the driver access to the full system output of combustion engine and electric motor in tandem; the Comfort setting, where the electric motor is deployed to the full, thus optimizing efficiency; and the Electric driving mode, where the XM uses only the power from the electric drive system.

This system is being introduced in a Sport Activity Vehicle with even more powerful versions on the horizon.

Proven power, capability and performance potential, the Hybrid M engine has drivers reaching all new levels! With key updates and a feel all its own, this engine is worth its weight in gold!