BMW plans to unveil a new 7-Series model next year. Also included will be the battery-electric i7.
Already prototypes have been spotted for the i7 and BMW has provided an update Wednesday on progress.
Here is the prototype that has been subject to winter testing near Sweden’s arctic circle. BMW says this is the last test for suspension and drive systems. Engineers are particularly concerned with improving performance handling and comfort.
This test will provide valuable feedback about the performance of your battery in extreme cold conditions, which can reduce range.
Our spy shots show the i7 testing with EVs like the Mercedes-Benz EQS (Xpeng P7) and Tesla Model Y (Tesla Model Y).
2023 BMW i7 (7-Series) spy shots – Photo credit: S. Baldauf/SB-Medien
2023 BMW i7 (7-Series) spy shots – Photo credit: S. Baldauf/SB-Medien
A new version of the 7-Series’ current CLAR platform is underpinning this 7-Series redesign, and it includes the i7. It is adaptable enough to accommodate multiple powertrain types. BMW uses its fifth-generation electric battery and powertrain technology, which is also used in the 2022i4 and 2022iX.
It supports 120 kilowatthours or more of battery capacity. This is enough to provide a range close to 400 miles. (BMW has battery partners including CATL, Samsung SDI, and Northvolt). The modular drive unit incorporates the power control, electric motor and transmission into one housing. Two of these units are combined to produce 516 hp in the iX xDrive50. One at each axle forms an all-wheel driven system. An iX M60 could feature a more powerful setup of 600 hp and an i7 M60.
Gross capacity for the iX xDrive50 battery is 111 kilowatt hours, which gives it enough power to cover 300 miles. The battery can be charged at speeds up to 200 kilowatts in 40 minutes. This allows it to reach 10-80% capacity within just 40 minutes. For those in hurry, a quick 10 minute charge will give you 90 miles more range. You can expect similar results for every i7 xDrive50.
Brake energy regeneration helps boost range. The driver can choose the severity of the regeneration in the iX and most likely the i7. One-pedal driving is possible in the most extreme setting. The regeneration can slow down the vehicle until it stops completely.
As a 2023 model, the redesigned 7 Series is likely to be in showrooms before year’s end. At the launch, you will also find the i7.
