(May 18, 2010) BMW could launch a hybrid version of the 5-series as early as 2011, CEO Norbert Reithofer told shareholders at the luxury-car maker's annual meeting in Munich on Tuesday, according to AutoWeek and Reuters news service.

A 3-series hybrid employing the same technology could also join at some point. The hybrid underpinnings come from the 5-series ActiveHybrid concept shown at the Geneva motor show in March.

These hybrids would join the X6 SUV hybrid, which is considered a full hybrid, in the German luxury maker's line. The 7-series hybrid, called the ActiveHybrid 7, is due this spring but is a mild hybrid, not capable of being propelled on electric power alone.

BMW, Ferrari, Porsche and nearly every other luxury-car company is racing to introduce hybrids to comply with stricter emissions standards around the world and in response to consumer demand.

The companies also are attempting to launch models that are green but still remain true to the sporting heritage of their brands.