BMW New 7 Series Unveiled... Domestic Release Scheduled for Second Half of the Year

[Asia Economy Reporter Choi Dae-yeol] BMW unveiled the new model of the large sedan 7 Series online for the first time on the 20th (local time). As a completely redesigned 7th generation model, its length, width, and height have all increased by 130mm, 48mm, and 51mm respectively compared to the previous version. The front headlights are split vertically, and the optional headlights come with various functions such as welcome and goodbye features.

The vehicle's entertainment system has also been enhanced. The front seats feature a curved screen with a 12.3-inch information display and a 14.9-inch control display. The information display behind the steering wheel incorporates augmented reality technology. For rear-seat passengers, a theater-style screen has been applied for the first time in this car. It descends from the ceiling, with a 32:9 aspect ratio and a size of 31.3 inches. It supports 8K resolution and offers YouTube on-demand video streaming functionality. The Bowers & Wilkins surround system, including headrest-embedded speakers, is also installed.

For the first time in the 7 Series lineup, a pure electric vehicle model (i7) has been added. There are also internal combustion engine, plug-in hybrid, and hybrid versions. The i7 features the 5th generation eDrive system. It has two electric motors producing a maximum output of 544 horsepower. The battery capacity is 101.7 kWh, allowing a maximum range of 625 km (WLTP standard).

Two high-performance M models with electrification for the 7 Series are currently under development. The i7 M70 xDrive is the top-tier model, expected to deliver over 600 horsepower and more than 100 kg·m of torque from two electric motors. The first high-performance plug-in hybrid (PHEV) model, the M760e xDrive, combines an inline 6-cylinder gasoline engine with a 200-horsepower electric motor to produce 571 horsepower and a maximum torque of 81 kg·m. Other models include the PHEV 750e xDrive, the gasoline-powered 760i xDrive with a V8 engine, the new inline 6-cylinder engine-equipped BMW 740i and 735i, and the diesel model 740d xDrive.

The new 7 Series and the pure electric i7 are scheduled to be released domestically in the second half of this year.

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