Fully Electric i7 Leads the New Generation
BMW has launched the seventh generation of the 7 Series with a fully electric version called the i7. The i7 will go on sale towards the end of 2022. Initially, BMW will only offer the battery-powered model. Plug-in hybrid versions will arrive in 2023.
Flexible Platform and Powertrain Options
The new 7 Series uses a flexible platform architecture. This allows BMW to offer a range of powertrains, from pure electric to combustion engines with mild hybrid assistance. While the i7 launches first, other versions will follow in different markets.
Powerful Performance and Impressive Range
BMW’s first electric 7 Series, the i7 xDrive60, features a 101.7kWh battery and two electric motors. This combination delivers 544hp and accelerates from 0 to 100km/h in just 4.7 seconds. The i7 offers a WLTP driving range of up to 625 kilometres. Fast DC charging at up to 195kW means you can top up the large battery quickly.
Distinctive Design and Electric Identity
Unlike previous generations of the 7 Series, buyers will now only have a long wheelbase version available. The car’s overall length has grown by 130mm and is also wider and taller by 48mm and 51mm respectively, the latter partly due to the need to incorporate the battery within the floor. A host of new technology will be available, including the option of electrically operated doors for the first time on a BMW. At the touch of a button, the doors gracefully open while ultrasonic sensors placed along the side of the car monitor the surroundings to prevent the risk of damage. If you stand in front of the doors as it opens, it automatically stops.
The dashboard layout is similar to what BMW has introduced in the i4 and iX models. A curved dual-screen display runs the German marque’s latest infotainment system and can be used directly by the touchscreen, via the iDrive rotary controller or voice activation. A host of luxurious materials can be specified and there is a considerable amount of adjustment available to find a suitable driving position.
Spacious Long Wheelbase and Advanced Technology
But it’s in the rear that the true luxury of the BMW i7 can be experienced, partly thanks to that longer wheelbase. Ample amounts of legroom and headroom should make travelling much less tiresome. Should you need to catch some rest, then with a single press on the touch panel of the door, the front passenger seat can move forwards and tilt down to transform into a footrest while the rear seat reclines to a 42.5-degree angle, akin to a seat on business class. The 7 Series also gets a panoramic glass roof as standard with the ability to activate a twinkling LED light show at night.
Modern Interior and Infotainment
In-car entertainment also moves up a notch with BMW’s introduction of the Theatre Screen. Housed in the car’s roof, when activated, a 31.3-inch 8K touchscreen display seamlessly slides forward and down into place in front of the rear-seat occupants as the rear and side window blinds roll up to create a cinema-like atmosphere. It is equipped with a 5G connection and has a built-in hard drive and HDMI input to enable passengers to watch their favourite shows or movies on the go.
