BMW has announced two new hybrid vehicles headed to production that will blend fuel efficiency and performance. The BMW ActiveHybrid X6 and ActiveHybrid 7 will both be unveiled at the Frankfurt Auto Show in September.

The X6, a four-passenger sporty SUV will be powered by a twin-turbocharged V8 gas engine producing 400 hp and two electric motors delivering 91 and 86 hp each. Maximum output is 480 hp. The hybrid can run entirely on electric power up to a speed of 37 mph for 1.6 miles. The electric motor receives power through a battery pack positioned under the floor of the trunk. BMW claims acceleration will reach 60 mph in 5.4 seconds. EPA numbers are not yet available, but the European test cycle shows improvement of 20% versus the gas version, which currently gets an EPA rating of 15 mpg city and 20 highway. The X6 will reach dealers at the end of 2009.

The ActiveHybrid 7 will have an upgraded twin-turbo direct injection V8 engine with an electric motor and 8-speed automatic transmission. Combined power is 455 hp, 55 more than the conventional 750i. Like the X6, the 7’s electric motor receives power through a lithium-ion battery and also mounted under the trunk floor. Preliminary acceleration figures are 4.8 seconds from 0-60 mph. Fuel economy is expected to be 15% better than the 750i, which gets 15 mpg city and 22 mpg highway mileage. Unlike the new Mercedes-Benz S400 hybrid, which is the least expensive S-Class entry, the 7 flagship is expected to command an additional premium over the typical, roughly $90,000 of a regular750Li.

Both BMWs will also use a start/stop function to maximize efficiency, but the air conditioning and ventilation system run on electric power, so the A/C can keep pumping when the gas engine stops.

The ActiveHybrid 7 will hit showrooms in the Spring of 2010.

—Liza Barth