BMW looks to the future

New technologies being explored for production potential come from hybrid research, Formula One racing, and aerospace engineering.

An SUV “with the acceleration of a Formula One car” is how BMW unofficially introduced its research hybrid “Connected Drive” X5, with the potential to generate up to 1000 N·m (740 lb·ft) of torque. Officially, it was rather more restrained but no less enthusiastic, talking of “much more power on far less fuel” and “efficient use of kinetic energy.”

Unlike some companies, BMW has few qualms about revealing to small groups of international journalists glimpses of its research work that may or may not make it to production. Its confidence in doing this indicates an appreciation that a marque's image and reputation can no longer rest only on building cars with high levels of quality and reliability, because so many manufacturers-almost regardless of the price of their vehicles-are achieving both. So in parallel with quality, BMW is taking the technology route to differentiate its products-and its bold and controversial new styling themes on the 7 Series, 5 Series, and Z4 complement that message.