BMW i7: the new 7 Series goes electric

BMW has just unveiled the latest generation of the 7 Series. For the first time, a 100% electric i7 completes the range.

While Mercedes has entered the Tesla Model S segment with a specific model, BMW prefers to launch an electric version of the newly revealed 7 Series.

There is no doubt that the design of the BMW 7 Series – and therefore that of the electric i7 version – will spark many discussions. The enormous grille with illuminated contours will have its supporters and its detractors. The two-part headlights will also be viewed variably. The profile and rear are, however, quite conventional. Overall, it appears that this large car (5.39 meters long) was primarily designed for the Chinese market.

Inside, the 12.3-inch instrumentation and the 14.9-inch central screen form a cohesive unit oriented towards the driver, similar to the iX and iX4 models. The list of standard and optional equipment is very extensive. Notable features include four-zone automatic climate control, a right rear seat with integrated footrest, adaptive LED headlights, adaptive suspension, and a head-up display. A host of cutting-edge driver assistance systems enable Level 3 autonomous driving.

Additionally, the BMW i7 features a retractable 31.3-inch rear touchscreen connected to a Bowers & Wilkins audio system with built-in seat bass speakers. Essentially a home theater, guaranteeing rear passengers a delightful experience. They also have tactile controls integrated into the doors.

The dashboard is topped with a dual screen slightly tilted towards the driver

Up to 625 km of range

The flagship of the i7 lineup will be the M70 xDrive with 660 hp. Aside from the power, BMW has not yet provided detailed information about this version, which is still in development.

One level below, the i7 xDrive60 retains all-wheel drive. It is equipped with two motors producing a combined power of 544 hp. 0 to 100 km/h is achieved in 4.7 seconds, with a top speed of 240 km/h. The sound signature has been meticulously developed to create something “rich in emotion”.

The 101.7 kWh battery guarantees a range between 590 and 625 km (WLTP mixed cycle). Charging power can reach up to 195 kW, enabling a 170 km range recovery in just 10 minutes.

Plug-in hybrid versions of the 7 Series are also planned

The electric versions i7 xDrive60 and M70 xDrive are part of a broader offering that includes other powertrains. In addition to diesel, BMW will introduce two plug-in hybrid models with six-cylinder petrol engines: the 750e xDrive with 490 hp and the M760e with 571 hp.

At launch, BMW will only offer the i7 xDrive60. If you wish to purchase it, expect to pay at least €139,900. The i7 M70 xDrive and the plug-in hybrids will join in early next year. The new BMW 7 Series and its electric variant are manufactured in Germany, in the Dingolfing plant.