Here’s a first proper look at the BMW i7 - due to launch in 2022 and what’s being described as the ‘world’s first pure-electric luxury saloon’.
The i7 is an important car for BMW and one that was first reported back in 2020.
An all-electric version of the traditionally-powered 7 Series, it’s due to appeal to lease customers who crave the utmost in luxury while also being kind to the planet.
And here it is - the i7 glimpsed for the first time in official images released by the German manufacturer.
As you can see, it’s still in camouflage disguise - and being put through its paces at a winter test centre in snowy Arjeplog, Sweden
But BMW has revealed some of the ways the i7 is being prodded and probed in order for it to deliver another ‘ultimate driving machine’ experience.
A BMW spokesperson reveals:
“Suspension components, together with steering, braking and vehicle stability systems, that are being developed for the future generation of the BMW 7 Series will be honed to perfection in the extreme climate. Specifically, springs, dampers and various regulating systems will be subject to performance-orientated tuning to ensure maximum driver feedback and enjoyment to match the several different drive modes.”
BMW’s Swedish test centre is pretty much in the Arctic circle - and that’s significant.
As you probably know, cold temperatures affect an electric car’s battery by reducing the maximum driving range. The i7 is set to have a range of up to 400 miles between charges - and BMW is seemingly on a mission to ensure that distance isn’t curtailed by the Great British weather.
The spokesperson adds:
“The intensive winter testing programme also focuses on the components of the all-electric drive system. The BMW i7’s electric drive, high-voltage battery, power electronics and charging technology all originate from the fifth generation of BMW eDrive technology, which already provides exceptional sustainable driving pleasure in the BMW iX. Above all, it is the motor, the battery and the temperature control system of the BMW i7 that prove their advanced technology and durability in the extreme sub-zero temperatures common to the north of Sweden.”
So far BMW has remained tight-lipped on power output - though there is talk of 670 hp variant.
All we know for now is that the i7 won’t skimp on the sumptuousness.
BMW adds:
“For the first time, it is possible to experience a luxury saloon that is characterised by uncompromised elegance and refinement in conjunction with a purely electric drive system. The BMW i7 is based on the same vehicle concept as all further model variants of the BMW 7 Series. This integrated development also guarantees locally emission-free driving with the characteristic combination of both sporty and comfort-oriented handling and the space of a BMW luxury saloon.”
Watch this space for further updates.
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