This groundbreaking electric vehicle marks a significant milestone in BMW M GmbH's transition to electric mobility, following the successful launch of the BMW i4 M50 and BMW iX M60. The enthusiasm among BMW M enthusiasts for electric propulsion, coupled with the continuous expansion of the electric product range and increased drive system output, underscores the immense potential of electric technology in delivering captivating performance.
Making its global debut at the 2023 Auto Shanghai international motor show, the BMW i7 M70 xDrive will be manufactured at the BMW Group Plant Dingolfing alongside other variants of the luxury sedan. Serving as the lead plant for luxury models, this facility is also the competence center for electric drive system production, producing both electric motors and high-voltage batteries for all BMW i7 variants on-site. The global rollout of the BMW i7 M70 xDrive is scheduled to commence in the second half of 2023.
Underpinning the BMW i7's performance is the fifth-generation BMW eDrive technology, continually evolving to enhance power output and efficiency across the powertrain, power electronics, high-voltage battery, and charging technology.
The BMW i7 M70 xDrive features highly integrated drive units at the front and rear axles, combining the electric motor, power electronics, and transmission in a compact housing. Its rear-axle motor, specifically configured for M performance, achieves unprecedented power density, delivering a peak output of 335 kW/456 hp. The front and rear motors work synergistically, generating a system torque of 1,015 Nm (748 lb-ft) in Sport mode and up to 1,100 Nm (811 lb-ft) with M Launch Control or the M Sport Boost function activated. With a remarkable 0-100 km/h (62 mph) acceleration time of 3.7 seconds, the BMW i7 M70 xDrive stands as the fastest purely electric BMW model, while its top speed is electronically limited to 250 km/h (155 mph).
The innovative "double excitation" technology, utilizing six excitation windings in the motor's stator instead of the conventional three, contributes to the motor's exceptional power density, ensuring continuous high output across a broad speed range. This unique approach outperforms configurations with two rear axle motors in terms of both power density and efficiency.
To further enhance performance, the BMW i7 M70 xDrive introduces the M Launch Control function and M Sport Boost function. The former integrates drive and traction control into the motor control unit, allowing precise metering of power for instant acceleration without traction loss. The latter, activated with the shift paddle, is accompanied by Performance-specific graphics in the instrument cluster and the distinctive BMW IconicSounds Electric by Hans Zimmer, offering an exhilarating auditory experience that varies with the selected driving mode.
Balancing extreme performance with excellent long-distance capabilities, the BMW i7 M70 xDrive incorporates measures to reduce power consumption, such as adaptive recuperation of braking energy and heat pump technology for the cabin and powertrain's integrated heating and cooling system. Its combined electric power consumption ranges from 23.8 to 20.8 kWh per 100 kilometers in the WLTP test cycle.
The high-voltage battery, with an impressive energy density located in the vehicle's underbody, provides 101.7 kWh of usable energy, offering a range of 488 to 560 kilometers (303 to 348 miles, WLTP cycle). The Combined Charging Unit allows AC charging at up to 22 kW and DC power intake at a rate of up to 195 kW, providing a range extension of up to 170 kilometers (106 miles, WLTP) in just ten minutes at a high-power charging station.
Introducing a MAX RANGE operating mode, the BMW i7 M70 xDrive allows users to extend the range by 15 to 25 percent at the push of a button, limiting drive power and top speed while scaling back comfort functions. This mode proves useful in situations where planned recharging mid-journey becomes challenging, ensuring a comfortable margin to reach an alternative charging point.Combining extreme power with M-specific chassis technology, the BMW i7 M70 xDrive features M-specific adaptive two-axle air suspension, Integral Active Steering, and the Executive Drive Pro chassis package with active roll stabilisation. These components, together with M Sport brakes and optional sport tires, contribute to a uniquely sporty driving experience while maintaining high comfort levels over long distances.
Externally, the BMW i7 M70 xDrive boasts M-specific design features, including M exterior mirrors, a BMW kidney grille with M badging, and distinctive M logos. The front-end design highlights the twin circular headlights, while the flanks and rear showcase M-specific elements such as side skirts, M logos, and a model-specific rear apron with a diffuser insert.
The interior of the BMW i7 M70 xDrive is characterized by M-specific details, including illuminated M door sills, M Merino leather trim, an M leather steering wheel, and M driver's footrest. Customers can further personalize the interior with options like BMW Individual interior variants and bespoke upholstery from BMW Individual Manufaktur.
The vehicle introduces the updated BMW iDrive with QuickSelect and BMW Operating System 8.5, featuring a redesigned home screen, QuickSelect functionality, and M-specific content in the BMW Curved Display. The infotainment system includes BMW Maps with charging-optimized route guidance, providing Augmented View and improved functions for precise route planning. Additionally, the BMW i7 M70 xDrive incorporates various digital content, voice-controlled assistants, connectivity features, and advanced systems for automated driving and parking.
In conclusion, the BMW i7 M70 xDrive stands as a testament to BMW's commitment to electric mobility, offering unmatched performance, advanced technology, and luxurious design within the luxury segment. This groundbreaking model represents a significant step in BMW M's electric transformation and sets new standards for electric vehicles in terms of power, range, and driving dynamics.
