BMW is presenting the completely new 7-series and its electric i7 sister model this year. We will have to wait a while for an actual disclosure. We do see the two top limos from BMW now in packed form outside the door.
BMW is following its own path in the EV field. Contrary to brands such as Mercedes-Benz and Audi, BMW believes to a lesser extent in the use of cars that are available purely and only with an electric powertrain. In its own words, it prefers to offer the buyer a choice of petrol and diesel engines per model and from plug-in hybrid and fully electric powertrains. For example, the iX3 is nothing more than an electric X3 and the i3 and i4 become electric versions of the 3-series and 4-series Gran Coupé respectively. BMW is working hard behind the scenes on a new 7-series, a car that will be an electric version in the form of the i7. Both the 7 Series and the i7 have now been caught in public.
BMW 8 Series (E31, 1990-1999)
From previous spy photos it could already be concluded that the i7, and therefore also the complete 7 series, will have a very stubborn appearance. Don’t be surprised if the new 7 Series with its striking front with low-nose headlamps becomes just as controversial as the E65 ‘Bangle’7 Series unveiled in 2001. With a little imagination, we can even see influences from the previous 8-series in the muzzle of this top Bimmer. The regular 7-series can of course be recognized in these photos by the exhaust pipes and the vapor that visibly rises from it. The i7 reveals its true nature not only with the absence of tailpipes, but also with the ‘Electric Test Vehicle’ sticker that has been placed on the rear bumper. Also interesting: cameras and sensors are already visible in both the bumper and the grille that should make semi-autonomous driving possible.
BMW i7 (illustration)
Although the BMW i7 is presented as a stand-alone model, it simply shares its base and body with the soon to be new 7-series. Mercedes-Benz is taking a different path with the forthcoming EQS. That car is completely different from the S-class. Aim for the i7 to be able to reach an electrical radius of about 6 to 700 kilometers. The powertrain will deliver at least 500 horsepower. The regular 7 series will probably no longer be available with a V12. More later this year!