The new, seventh-generation BMW 7 Series represents the most extensive model update ever carried out by the BMW Group, as the brand’s flagship saloon spearheads the integration of Neue Klasse technologies into the existing BMW model portfolio. 

With the new BMW 7 Series, BMW launches its Neue Klasse design language for the luxury segment. It features a monolithic exterior with precise lines, a new face with a reprofiled kidney grille and ultra-slim daytime running lights, as well as a sculpted rear, where redesigned taillights span the entire width of the vehicle. With BMW Individual, customers benefit from a broad spectrum of personalisation options, including new crystal headlights and a world-first dual-finish exterior paint. An expanded collection of BMW Individual paint choices – with over 500 colour combinations available for selection – comprehensive trim levels and a variety of alloy wheel designs in sizes up to 22 inches enable further customisation.

An exclusive experience is curated inside the cabin by merging a minimalist and contemporary design, luxury materials – such as leather, metal and crystal glass – and advanced Neue Klasse technologies. Interior highlights include the integration of BMW Panoramic iDrive with the first-ever BMW Passenger Screen – fitted as standard – an enhanced BMW Theatre Screen experience with the addition of Dolby Atmos audio and, for the first time, integrated video conferencing. Comfortable seats with the optional Executive Lounge, new steering wheel designs, upgraded automatic doors, a digital interior mirror and a high-level of standard equipment – such as a panoramic glass roof, four-zone automatic climate control and the Travel & Comfort System – round off a compelling interior package.

BMW Panoramic iDrive powered by BMW Operating System X, optimum driver orientation, intelligent voice control with the enhanced BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant featuring Amazon Alexa+ AI technology[1], and a powerful software and electronics architecture deliver future-proof functionality.

With the new BMW 7 Series, sheer driving pleasure meets the pleasure of being driven, blending benchmark driving dynamics with the comfort levels expected from a luxury chauffeur-driven saloon. A highlight is its innovative chassis technology, including standard adaptive two-axle air suspension featuring four electronically controlled shock absorbers. Standard-fit Adaptive Chassis Control with Integral Active Steering delivers exceptional handling, while the optional Adaptive Chassis Control Professional package adds additional roll stabilisation, further raising the bar in terms of comfort and agility. The addition of cutting-edge functions such as AI-assisted digital tyre conditioning monitoring, the integrated braking system and near-actuator wheel slip limitation ensure exceptional handling and safety.

Through harnessing the power of Gen6 cylindrical cells, the new BMW i7 lineup offers significant improvements in all-electric range. Three derivatives of the BMW i7 will launch first in the UK: the BMW i7 50 xDrive, delivering up to 452 miles (WLTP) on a single charge; the BMW i7 60 xDrive and the flagship BMW i7 M70 xDrive, which produces a combined system power output of 680 hp, enabling ultra-fast acceleration – with 0-62 mph achievable in just 3.8 seconds. Two plug-in hybrid models will follow in November 2026: the BMW 750e xDrive and a second BMW M Performance model, the BMW M760e xDrive – also delivering outstanding levels of performance.

With the new BMW 7 Series, the BMW Group extends its sustainability strategy across all drive-system variants, focussing on resource-efficient product development, innovative technologies and measures applied throughout the car’s lifecycle – from the supply chain to production and throughout ownership. In the case of the BMW i7, CO₂e emissions have been significantly reduced with the help of secondary materials, renewable energies and optimised manufacturing processes, including the adoption of Gen6 battery cells and alloy wheels containing around 70 per cent recycled aluminium.

All model and drive-system variants of the new BMW 7 Series saloon will be built on a single production line at BMW Group Plant Dingolfing. Leading the rollout of Neue Klasse technologies into existing models. BMW Group Plant Dingolfing retains the role of lead plant for the BMW luxury-class product portfolio.

The new BMW 7 Series celebrates its world premiere on 22 April 2026 at Auto China in Beijing. The start of production and UK market launch will follow from September 2026.

^{*All figures relating to output, charging capacity, performance, energy consumption and range are provisional. **Electronically limited.}

Exterior design.

With the Neue Klasse, BMW Group introduces a fresh, distinctive front-end design, ensuring a strong brand identity and high recognition across all models. The new BMW 7 Series showcases this design direction for the luxury segment, merging the model’s hallmark qualities – dynamism, comfort and luxury – with the Neue Klasse principles. Its exclusive front-end styling distinguishes it within BMW’s luxury model portfolio.

At the forefront is the updated illuminated BMW kidney grille with Iconic Glow as standard, now featuring slimmer, more vertical proportions. This is complemented by new two-section headlights and the newly designed BMW roundel in a matt finish, set between pronounced character lines on the bonnet. Large, body-coloured surfaces frame these elements, amplifying their visual impact and culminating in a powerful, monolithic appearance.

The kidney grille integrates technical features such as radar, camera, sensors, and washer nozzles discreetly, keeping the design clean and expansive. Contour lighting is now standard across the interior and exterior, initiating a distinctive light signature when the vehicle is started – a unique feature within its segment.

Headlights have been redesigned with a sophisticated, technical character. The upper, extremely slim light elements house the daytime running lights, sidelights, and indicators. BMW Individual crystal headlights can be specified with 12 crystal glass elements per unit, creating an exclusive, sparkling effect, especially when illuminated or in sunlight. Start-up animations and night-time driving further enhance this effect by backlighting the crystals alongside the kidney grille’s contour lighting.

Low and high-beam lights are positioned in the lower, vertically arranged section of the headlight unit, almost hidden near the air curtains at the outer edges. These only become visible when activated, further contributing to the front’s minimalist appearance. Adaptive LED Headlights – with cornering, matrix high beam up to 600 metres, and non-dazzling BMW Selective Beam assistant – are standard on the new 7 Series.

Special welcome and goodbye animations and dynamic light carpet.
A choreographed combination of light effects and projections creates a unique welcome sequence, with customisable animation modes – RELAXED, BALANCED, and EXCITED – and a similarly orchestrated goodbye as standard. The Ceremonial Light Carpet, available as an option, uses over 194,000 LED pixels embedded in the door sills to project dynamic light patterns near the doors, varying according to the animation mode, and further enhancing the entry and exit experience.

Side view: refined surfaces and high-quality details.
The side profile of the new BMW 7 Series is defined by flush-fitting door handles in classic recesses. Depending on the vehicle’s specification, handle trims are finished in Pearl-effect Chrome or Black high-gloss. When both doors on one side are open, a prominent ‘7’ is embossed on the B-pillar, reinforcing the model’s identity.

Rear end: newly designed lights and minimalist surfaces.
The rear adopts the same clear, reduced design as the front. All-new slim, elongated rear lights stretch across the bodywork, emphasising the car’s width and sporty stance. Chrome strips inside the units generate a precise light pattern, while a smoked glass finish exudes modern elegance. Functional elements, such as boot unlocking, rear-view camera, and washer nozzle, are discreetly integrated into the black area of the lights, maintaining the clean look. The new BMW badge at the rear, set in a recessed frame, echoes the jewel-like presentation at the front.

The sculpted rear apron features reduced forms and clean lines, with exhaust tailpipes (where fitted) hidden beneath the vehicle for consistent appearance, regardless of the selected powertrain. A sculpted diffuser-like element completes the exterior design.

M Sport, M Sport Pro and M Performance models deliver a striking appearance.
Drawing on BMW’s sporty heritage, the new BMW 7 Series asserts a more dynamic presence than ever before. This is most evident in the BMW M Performance models: the BMW i7 M70 xDrive and BMW M760e xDrive, where unique design details underline exceptional performance.

The front end makes a powerful statement thanks to a prominent front apron, with larger air curtains and a bigger central air intake than on other model variants. A subtle lower spoiler lip further visually lowers the centre of gravity and brings the car closer to the road.

BMW M Performance models also feature an exclusive grille graphic with the BMW M logo highlighted by the Iconic Glow. Additional M badges appear in the Hofmeister kink and on the outer edges of the rear lights. The Iconic Glow illumination has been darkened for a sportier appearance, while the BMW Individual crystal headlights incorporate smoke-black crystals for an especially distinctive look.

High-gloss black is used for the M exterior mirrors, finished with signature BMW M stripes, window surrounds and side skirts to sharpen the side profile. An M-specific Welcome Light Animation and dynamic light carpet continue to set the range-topping models apart.

At the rear of the BMW M760e xDrive, contoured twin tailpipes are framed by a unique sculpted rear diffuser. Meanwhile, the BMW i7 M70 xDrive has its own model-specific diffuser element, which spans almost the entire width of the vehicle for a sporty appearance. Vertical reflectors at the outer edges of the rear bumper continue to emphasise a wide stance, while a discreet Black Sapphire M rear spoiler completes the enhanced design.

Other highlights include new 21-inch M aerodynamic wheels in bi-colour Jet Black with mixed-size tyres, plus powerful M Sport brakes with Black high-gloss callipers.

M Sport and M Sport Pro trims enhance the appearance of all other model derivatives. Both bring model-specific M Sport exterior design features with more aggressive front and rear bumpers (predominantly in black), large air intakes, air curtains and a sculpted rear diffuser. These trim levels also comprise M-specific side skirts, M high-gloss Shadowline with high-gloss black window surrounds and mirror bases, 20-inch M aerodynamic wheels, M Sport brakes with blue callipers, BMW M door sill strips, and a special welcome/goodbye animation with M-specific dynamic light carpet.

The M Sport Pro trim builds on M Sport with additional details. It adds a dark BMW M kidney grille design, 21-inch M aerodynamic wheels and extended BMW M high-gloss Shadowline, including a darkened Iconic Glow and rear lights. This trim is rounded off by a black M rear spoiler and an M Sport braking system with black-painted callipers.

BMW Individual: 34 years of exclusive vehicle personalisation. More than 500 exterior colours and combinations available for the new BMW 7 Series.
Following iconic projects such as the BMW 750iL (E32) by Karl Lagerfeld, BMW Individual has evolved into a comprehensive programme for bespoke personalisation. When specifying their new BMW 7 Series, customers can select from an extensive list of BMW Individual options for maximum personalisation.

Beyond the traditional options list, a new Vancouver Green metallic exterior paint can be specified, alongside a new satin-finish aluminium exterior accent. Customers can additionally choose from 12 Individual upholstery options and around 130 Individual paint finishes, including the new Individual Frozen Space Silver. Two-tone combinations (solid, metallic, Frozen/Frozen and metallic/Frozen) enable more than 500 exterior colours and colour combinations for the new BMW 7 Series. For a truly unique vehicle, customers can commission exclusive special editions of the new BMW 7 Series – up to and including a tailor-made one-off from BMW Individual Manufaktur.

A world first: BMW Individual Dual-Finish.
BMW Individual Dual-Finish is a unique paint concept that pairs a matt finish on the lower body with a hand-applied metallic finish on the upper section. Combined with the hand-drawn Coach Line, the result is a discreet yet exceptionally elegant appearance.

A standout feature is the transition between the two finishes. Although matt and metallic paints differ greatly in composition, Dual-Finish creates an impressively seamless join with no visible break – showcasing both the innovation and the expertise of the team applying it.

BMW Individual Dual-Finish sets a new benchmark in paint technology. Developed over two-and-a-half years, the process is currently exclusive to BMW Group Plant Dingolfing and available only for the BMW 7 Series saloon. More than 20 specially trained employees carry out 12 carefully choreographed steps, preparing each car by hand, including taping and sanding the body for the manual application. Each Dual-Finish vehicle spends more than 75 hours (over three full days) in the paint shop – almost six times longer than those specified with a traditional paint finish. Around 50 per cent of this work is carried out by hand.

Interior design.

Inside the cabin, the new BMW 7 Series combines presence, elegance and premium materials with a clear, uncluttered design, while the implementation of Neue Klasse technologies sets the stage for an exceptional on-board entertainment experience for all passengers.

An extensive interior update introduces BMW Panoramic iDrive and a new front-passenger display: the BMW Passenger Screen.
Neue Klasse technologies, including BMW Panoramic iDrive with BMW Operating System X, enhance the BMW-typical driver-oriented interior experience while offering new ways to personalise the look and feel of the cabin. A newly designed instrument panel frames the “floating” free-cut Central Display, positioned ergonomically close to the steering wheel. Adjacent to it is the new front-passenger display, which becomes a key design element. Making its brand premiere in the BMW 7 Series, the BMW Passenger Screen is fitted as standard on all model variants. The BMW Panoramic Vision is also seen for the first time in the updated flagship saloon, alongside a new multifunction steering wheel, further sharpening the cutting-edge feel of the interior design.

From private cinema lounge to mobile workstation: the upgraded BMW Theatre Screen raises the bar once again.
A standout option for the new BMW 7 Series is the 31.3-inch Theatre Screen touchscreen with 8K resolution paired with the Bowers & Wilkins Diamond Surround Sound System with Dolby Atmos (also optional) for the ultimate cinema experience. An integrated camera enables video conferencing for the first time, while an HDMI connection allows the display to be used as an extended computer screen.

Even the deployment of the Theatre Screen is an experience: a sound animation accompanies the process as the sunblinds (side windows, rear window and panoramic glass roof) close and the rear ambient lighting dims. Passengers can then adjust the screen position to suit, using the updated BMW Touch Command modules in the rear doors to move it fore and aft to set the viewing angle.

Immersive lighting with a new ambient light strip and additional light elements.
A new interior lighting concept welcomes the driver with a harmonious, immersive experience tailored to their personal preference. The exterior welcome animation continues seamlessly inside, creating a carefully coordinated choreography of light and sound for rear passengers.

A range of light elements produce soft, evenly distributed, wrap-around illumination, creating a modern and distinctly premium ambience.

Central to the animation and the cockpit design is the new ambient light strip spanning the full width of the instrument panel. By day, its delicate alabaster structure is visible; at night, it adds a subtly dynamic light effect. Colour and brightness respond to the time of day and can be adjusted – like all light elements – via My Modes or voice command. A second defining feature is a pair of new light elements integrated seamlessly into the front seatbacks at head-restraint height.

The optional illuminated Sky Lounge panoramic glass roof is another highlight, where more than 40 LEDs light a graphic structure extending across the interior, echoing elements of the seat quilting. Light colours follow the selected My Mode but can also be chosen independently. Illuminated speaker grilles in the rear doors, new rear reading lights and further light features round off the concept.

Bowers & Wilkins sound systems with Dolby Atmos support deliver outstanding listening pleasure with enhanced interior acoustics.
As standard, the new BMW 7 Series features the Bowers & Wilkins Surround Sound System with a seven-band equaliser, up to 18 speakers with metal covers and amplifier output of up to 655 watts.

The optional Bowers & Wilkins Diamond Surround Sound System delivers high-end audio with up to 35 speakers and amplifier output of up to 1,965 watts, setting the segment benchmark. The system includes a seven-band equaliser and seven curated sound profiles. Additional surround speakers are integrated into the head restraints of both front seats and the two outer rear seats. A 4D audio function uses exciters in the front and rear seat backrests to intensify bass perception, even at low volumes.

With the Bowers & Wilkins Diamond Surround Sound System, passengers can enjoy a rich Dolby Atmos experience, creating a three-dimensional soundscape for compatible formats, allowing sound objects to move freely around the cabin – enhancing streamed films and music with a new level of immersion.

Further improvements to interior acoustics create the ideal stage for premium sound. Measures include side windows sealed flush to the body, standard acoustic glazing, an elastic steering gear mounting on the front axle subframe, an additional model-specific motor mount for the BMW i7, tyres with internal foam absorbers for integrated soundproofing, plus further aeroacoustic optimisation of the exterior mirror caps and improved door insulation.

High-quality materials, refined appointments and innovative details maximise comfort – with around 700 interior combinations available.
Careful selection of materials across surfaces, textures and details give the cabin a distinctive sense of quality and exclusivity.

The instrument panel and centre console come as standard with Fineline Lime open-pored matt fine-wood trim. Optional alternatives include Mirror Oak fine-wood trim Grey metallic high-gloss, BMW Individual Ash Flowing Grey open-pored fine-wood trim strips and – for the first time – Alcantara trim strips in matching interior colours.

The instrument panel’s clean design continues seamlessly into the door trims. A new control panel groups frequently used functions in a sleek, practical layout, while crystal-glass seat controls for backrest, fore/aft position and height adjustment provide a premium look and feel.

BMW Individual Crafted Clarity glass applications also appear in the redesigned centre console – for the start/stop button, gear selector lever and volume control. The integrated cup holder is illuminated, while the inductive smartphone tray (up to 15 watts) is trimmed in soft Alcantara and uses a magnetic holder to secure the device.

New fully electric slot-type air vents are integrated almost invisibly into the instrument panel, reinforcing the clean interior look. Airflow is controlled precisely via the Central Display.

Seat surfaces are upholstered in Veganza as standard, offered in three colours. With leather-like qualities and an exceptionally soft feel, they provide high levels of comfort, with perforated surfaces and prominent quilting. Headlining is finished in Anthracite or Ivory White, depending on the chosen specification.

For M Sport, M Sport Pro and M Performance models, customers can opt for BMW Individual Merino Leather in Black/Atlas Grey with BMW M colour accents in place of Veganza. Optional BMW Individual upholsteries include Merino Leather in Black, Mocha, Smoke White or Tartufo with extensive quilting. Depending on specification, headlining is finished in Anthracite or Atlas Grey; a BMW M Anthracite Alcantara headlining is also available.

BMW Individual interior options also include Merino Leather trim in a new Adelaide Grey finish. The BMW Individual Alcantara headlining can be chosen in Anthracite with Black, Mocha or Adelaide Grey leather, and Atlas Grey with Smoke White or Tartufo. Bi-colour Merino leather variants can also be specified: Smoke White/Light Grey, Black/Dark Grey and Caramel/Atlas Grey.

Another premium BMW Individual interior choice is BMW Individual Merino Leather/cashmere wool in Smoke White/Atlas Grey or Black/Dark Grey. Leather on the upper seat sections contrasts with cashmere-rich cloth below, complemented by elaborate quilting, fine perforation and a symmetrically embroidered pattern. This cashmere wool combination is also available for the centre armrest and neck cushions.

Comfort seats as standard, with optional Executive Lounge for the rear compartment.
Standard specification includes multifunction seats with extensive electric adjustment, seat heating and lumbar support for the driver and front passenger. Adjustment is via the newly designed door-panel controls and the Central Display. The multifunction seats feature a massage function with sevenrogrammes and three intensity levels as standard. They can also be specified with Active Ventilation from the options list. These features can be specified for the rear compartment as well, controllable via BMW Touch Command panels in the rear doors.

The optional Executive Lounge for the rear compartment brings outstanding levels of comfort with an integrated leg rest behind the front-passenger seat, plus an optional quilted, heated armrest with a glass insert and an Alcantara-trimmed smartphone tray with inductive charging. Coordinated adjustment of the backrest (including its upper section), seat fore/aft position and seat angle enables a reclining posture with a torso angle of up to 43 degrees. The front-passenger seat can be moved fully forward and its backrest tilted forward to maximise legroom for the rear passenger. This mechanism has been optimised to maintain the driver’s view in the passenger-side exterior mirror.

Ergonomic, intuitive steering wheels with a new design and operating philosophy.
Five new steering wheels in up to three colours combine expressive design, excellent ergonomics and high-quality materials. The standard leather steering wheel features a flatter top and bottom, a vertical spoke, and forms an integral part of the BMW Panoramic iDrive operating concept. With haptic feedback, the multifunction wheel follows the shy-tech principle, where driver assistance controls illuminate only where relevant.

A unique option is the BMW Individual steering wheel clad in Smoke White with a Dark Silver bezel, available with all Smoke White upholstery variants.

The M leather steering wheel is standard fit for all M Performanceodel variants and selectable for M Sport. Exclusive to M Performance models is a red 12 o’clock marker, BMW M badge and tricolour stitching. Ergonomically positioned thumb controls activate Sport Boost and M Mode. In the BMW M760e xDrive, Sport Boost is selected via black/red paddles. A leather-free steering wheel can also be specified on M Sport and M Sport Pro models with Veganza upholsteries.

Updated automatic doors with Soft Close functionality offer exceptional ease of use.
The optional automatic doors have been further refined for the new BMW 7 Series. An electric open/close button sits ergonomically within each interior door handle, while a single-touch button on the exterior door handles opens or closes the doors, even with gloves or when handles are iced over. Additional control options include the My BMW App, voice commands or via the BMW Panoramic iDrive menu structure. With BMW Digital Key Plus, compatible smartphones or smartwatches can be used as a control device – including to define which doors open when approaching the car.

The new Soft Close mechanism closes each door smoothly, underscoring the luxurious ambience every time occupants enter or exit. A servo mode also allows manual opening and closing with minimal effort. Automatic doors now use radar sensors – integrated discreetly in the side skirts, front end and rear – enabling quicker operation than before. The sensors detect obstacles with high precision and recognise road users approaching the car, further enhancing collision protection.

New digital interior mirror.
An optional digital interior mirror lets the driver switch between a conventional mirror view and a digital display, depending on preference or situation. A camera integrated into the parcel shelf feeds the rear view to the mirror – particularly useful, for example, when the BMW Theatre Screen is in use. The digital interior mirror will be offered from November 2026 and will also be available as a retrofit for models built earlier.

Extensive standard equipment.
The BMW 7 Series comes as standard with a wide range of premium features, including a panoramic glass roof. It uses a single fixed glass surface framed by a steel surround and floods the interior with natural light. It is revealed and hidden via the electrically operated sliding headlining.

All model variants feature four-zone automatic climate control as standard. The BMW i7 includes a model-specific unit with highly efficient new heat pump technology. Rear passengers can set their own temperature preferences via separate controls, supported by an additional solar sensor that optimises rear temperature adjustment. The system also factors in seat heating and, where fitted, seat ventilation to meet the passengers’ selected settings.

The standard Travel & Comfort modular accessories system allows tablets, smartphones, clothes hangers or a folding table to be mounted to the back of the front seats.

Display, operating system and digital user experience.

BMW Panoramic iDrive with BMW Operating System X: clear driver focus, BMW-style.
BMW Panoramic iDrive marks the latest evolution of BMW’s display and operating concept. Built around the interaction between driver and vehicle, it reshapes how information is shown and how key functions are accessed. By seamlessly linking displays, controls and software, the system is intuitive and ergonomic, keeping relevant information in view at all times in accordance with BMW’s ‘hands on the wheel, eyes on the road principle’.

At its core is the BMW Panoramic Vision, which uses newly developed technology to project content across the full width of the lower windscreen. Always visible, it forms the visual foundation of the display concept: driving-related information appears clearly on the right-hand side within the driver’s field of vision, while the central and left-hand areas can be personalised. All information is clearly visible to all passengers.

Above the Panoramic Vision, the BMW 3D Head‑Up Display projects selected content directly into the driver’s line of sight. It delivers highly precise spatial cues – for example for navigation instructions or information from driver assistance systems. Its content is precisely coordinated with Panoramic Vision, creating a consistent, structured display experience.

The 17.9-inch free-cut Central Display is another key element of BMW Panoramic iDrive. Matrix backlight technology delivers brilliant graphics and excellent readability in all light conditions. Its shape is ergonomically optimised, enabling the driver to access key functions with ease, while the improved menu structure with QuickSelect enables simple, intuitive touch control.

Widgets on the Central Display can be dragged and dropped into BMW Panoramic Vision. Up to six can be arranged freely for fast access to frequently used functions. Additional widget content and submenus can be operated via the multifunction steering wheel. Following the shy-tech principle, steering-wheel controls illuminate only when needed. Driver assistance and parking functions sit on the left, while infotainment controls are on the right. A newly designed control panel with haptic feedback lets the driver operate key functions without taking their eyes off the road.

BMW Panoramic iDrive is powered by BMW Operating System X. Based on the Android Open-Source Project (AOSP), it offers extensive update and upgrade capabilities, keeping the system current over the long term and enabling new functions and digital services to be added continuously.

A key strength is extensive customisation. Content, widgets and displays can be configured to suit personal preferences, including colours, display schemes and background images. Users will also be able to set their own photos as the Central Display background via the My BMW App, with interface colours across all displays automatically adapting to the selected image. Personal mode adds further options for tailoring displays, interactions and vehicle settings, while My Modes such as SPORT, EFFICIENT and SILENT expand the range of selectable set-ups.

BMW ID enables a personalised experience with BMW Operating System X. Up to seven users can sign in and access their individual settings. Before departure, the Central Display automatically shows a greeting with the driver’s name and – if desired – their personal profile picture.

Together, BMW Panoramic Vision, BMW 3D Head‑Up Display, Central Display and the multifunction steering wheel – all coordinated by BMW Operating System X – form a coherent, clearly structured operating concept.

Intelligent voice control with the self-learning BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant, enhanced by Amazon’s Alexa+¹ AI technology.
The enhanced BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant enables natural-language control of numerous vehicle functions, navigation destination entry and media content – without predefined commands.

It can be summoned with “Hey BMW” or via a steering-wheel button. The BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant can operate the windows, air conditioning, seating comfort, phone calls and in-car entertainment functions.

Adding Amazon’s Alexa+ AI technology¹ further expands its capabilities. The large language model (LLM) behind this technology enables more dialogue-based interaction as well as access to external knowledge bases, cloud-based services and media content – alongside vehicle-function control. When linked to an Amazon account, users can search for and stream music, listen to the latest news and access a wide range of other content. Availability will be expanded gradually, starting with Germany and the United States.

The new BMW Passenger Screen enhances front-passenger entertainment.
Making its debut in the new BMW 7 Series and fitted as standard, the 14.6-inch BMW Passenger Screen is a first for the BMW brand.

Designed specifically for the front passenger, the full‑HD display supports intuitive multi-touch operation and visually blends into the free-cut Central Display. It provides access to a wide range of infotainment options, including video streaming, gaming, music.

The interior camera enables video conferencing on the go. BMW Digital Premium – standard for the first four years – enables the necessary data allowance for this feature, which is compatible with all the vehicle’s displays. Alternatively, the system can use a mobile data connection of a smartphone via WiFi hotspot or tethering. An integrated shield function helps the driver stay focused: the interior camera detects distraction while on the move and automatically dims the display.

If the front passenger seat is unoccupied, the Passenger Screen automatically switches to a reduced mode and blends into the overall display landscape. Its background adapts to the active My Mode and the ambient lighting.

Top-class in-car entertainment – an expanded offering, including apps from popular third-party providers.
BMW Operating System X enables more entertainment options than ever before. With BMW Digital Premium, customers can use an extensive app, video and gaming portfolio with unlimited data. Alternatively, they can provide their own connection via a smartphone hotspot or a Wi‑Fi network. One connection per vehicle is all that’s required – then the content is available across the Central Display, BMW Passenger Screen and BMW Theatre Screen.

Customers can also use the Video app (powered by TiVo™), which offers an ever-growing selection of content such as news and live/on-demand streaming services. Video can be streamed on the Central Display, BMW Passenger Screen and BMW Theatre Screen when the vehicle is stationary. On the move, playback can continue on the BMW Passenger Screen and BMW Theatre Screen. By signing in with existing accounts, customers can continue films or series exactly where they left off at home. The Video app will be rolled out across all BMW ConnectedDrive markets over the course of 2026.

Further games and entertainment apps are available via the BMW ConnectedDrive Store. The store currently offers more than 60 apps worldwide across categories including music, entertainment, gaming, news, and travel.

BMW Digital Premium: entertainment, security functions and extended navigation features. Standard for the first four years.
BMW Digital Premium includes the Security Assistant, combining functions designed to add peace of mind. Attempted thefts and parking impacts, for example, trigger push notifications in the My BMW App. In the event of an accident, BMW Drive Recorder instantly provides exterior footage in the car and allows it to be exported to a mobile phone. The anti-theft and parking collision recorder can also create automatic video recordings. Optional Remote Inside and Remote 3D View functions let customers check the cabin and the vehicle’s immediate surroundings via the My BMW App.

BMW Digital Premium also expands BMW Maps with additional real-time traffic information, satellite views, 3D building models and proactive guidance tips for more accurate, anticipatory route planning. Parking facilities and points of interest are shown in greater detail, while realistic lane visualisation improves guidance through complex urban road layouts.

Drive systems.

The new BMW 7 Series will be offered in the UK with a choice of two powertrain options: battery electric and plug-in hybrid. The all-electric models will launch first and plug-in hybrid derivatives will start production in November 2026. Two M Performance models will be offered: the BMW i7 M70 xDrive and the BMW M760e xDrive.

The new BMW i7: three fully electric variants with increased range.
From launch, the new BMW 7 Series will be offered in three all-electric variants: the BMW i7 50 xDrive, BMW i7 60 xDrive and the BMW i7 M70 xDrive. Each variant merges driving pleasure, long-distance comfort and a luxurious ambience with zero local emissions. All models utilise two sound-insulated electric motors for instant, near-silent power delivery, plus standard all-wheel drive for outstanding traction and directional stability. BMW HypersonX driving sounds, sound effects and acoustic signals enhance the experience in the BMW i7 50 xDrive and BMW i7 60 xDrive, while the BMW i7 M70 xDrive features an M-specific sound design.

The new BMW i7 50 xDrive is the entry-level model. Its two drive units generate a maximum system output of 455 hp and overall torque of 660 Nm, enabling 0–62 mph in 5.5 seconds and a top speed of 130 mph. It delivers a combined power consumption of 21.8 – 17.9 kWh per 62 miles (WLTP), giving the BMW i7 50 xDrive a range of up to 452 miles on the WLTP test cycle. Higher energy content and energy density in the new Gen6 BMW cylindrical cells, plus efficiency gains in the drive system, increase range by around 73 miles versus its predecessor, the rear-wheel-drive BMW i7 eDrive50.

The BMW i7 60 xDrive produces a combined power output of 544 hp and maximum system torque of 745 Nm. It accelerates from 0–62 mph in 4.8 seconds before reaching an electronically limited 149 mph. On the WLTP test cycle, combined power consumption is 21.9 – 18.2 kWh per 62 miles and the maximum range is up to 451 miles (WLTP).

At the top of the line-up is the BMW i7 M70 xDrive. In the BMW M Performance model, two electric motors deliver a system output of 680 hp and 1,015 Nm of torque in SPORT mode, rising to 1,100 Nm when Launch Control or the Sport Boost function is activated. This enables the range topper to complete the 0-62 mph sprint in just 3.8 seconds. Top speed is electronically limited to 155 mph. Combined WLTP power consumption is 22.9 – 19.7 kWh per 62 miles, with a maximum range of up to 426 miles WLTP.

Electrically excited synchronous motors.
Alongside the new high-voltage battery with the latest Gen6 cylindrical cells and upgraded charging technology, the BMW i7 benefits from updated BMW eDrive technology. This includes highly integrated drive units at the front and rear axles, optimised through the use of an SiC inverter and combining the electric motor, power electronics and transmission in a single, compact housing.

The BMW i7 uses electrically excited synchronous motors, in which a precisely controllable electrical feed sets the rotor in motion rather than fixed permanent magnets. This eliminates the need for critical rare earth metals used in magnetic rotor components.

User friendly, intelligent and efficient charging, with a significantly higher charging rate.
With an electric current strength of up to 630 amps – beyond any other model in its segment – and maximum charging power increased from 195 to 250 kW, the new BMW i7 can charge from 10 to 80 per cent in just 28 minutes at high-power charging stations. The BMW i7 50 xDrive and BMW i7 60 xDrive can add enough energy for up to 146 miles of range in ten minutes, while the BMW i7 M70 xDrive can add up to 133 miles in the same amount of time. On AC power, the BMW i7 charges as standard at up to 22 kW, allowing a full charge from empty in six hours. At 11 kW, charging takes 12 hours.

Charging-optimised route planning and predictive thermal management for faster DC charging.
For convenient and fast charging on the move, the BMW i7 offers charging-optimised route planning to individual criteria, including automatic battery preparation to accelerate DC charging, plus user-friendly charging stops with Plug & Charge for automatic authentication at charging stations. Custom charging settings can be saved for multiple locations and are applied automatically when the vehicle returns to plug in.

If a destination is outside of the current predicted range, BMW Maps calculates a charging-optimised route including charging stops. The driver defines a preferred minimum state of charge for arrival at charging points and at the destination, with the ability to prioritise specific charging operators along the way. Using AI, the system draws on past charging cycles to estimate realistic charging power, identify potential fault susceptibility and refine station location data, then selects the optimal stop for the route. Users also see occupancy status, the number of charging points and connector types, plus estimated charging costs in advance based on stored tariffs. The vehicle and My BMW App synchronise current information during the journey, enabling passengers to review and adjust the route if required.

Battery preparation brings the high-voltage battery to the ideal temperature before DC charging, increasing charging power as soon as the vehicle is plugged in and reducing overall charging time. When navigating to a DC charging station with BMW Maps, the BMW i7 automatically conditions the battery. This function can also be activated manually via the Central Display or the My BMW App. Battery temperature status and the remaining preparation time can be viewed at any time under Vehicle Status in the car or in the My BMW App.

An intelligent combination of heat pump technology – for the cabin’s integrated heating and cooling circuit, as well as heating and cooling of the drive system and high-voltage battery – ensures exceptionally efficient stationary operation across a wide range of driving situations and outside temperatures from -20 to +30 degrees Celsius. For example, waste heat from the electric motors can be used to warm both the interior and the high-voltage battery simultaneously via the heat pump and, if required, a central electric auxiliary heater.

Adaptive recuperation takes traffic lights into account and can automatically brake the car to a complete stop.
The BMW i7 features adaptive recuperation control that can automatically decelerate the vehicle to a standstill in response to traffic ahead or at traffic lights, improving comfort at near-stationary speeds. When approaching a junction, for example, recuperation intensity can be increased – even without active route guidance – feeding energy into the high-voltage battery while decelerating. On open roads, the coasting function can take over, allowing the car to operate with no drive power when the driver lifts off the accelerator.

Two plug-in hybrid models with a revised combustion engine.
Two plug-in hybrid variants will be introduced in November 2026: The BMW 750e xDrive and the BMW M760e xDrive. Both benefit from an updated straight-six petrol engine, equipped with a new turbocharger. Electric support comes from a permanently excited synchronous motor with an output of 197 hp. It is packaged within the eight-speed Steptronic transmission housing, together with the power electronics, without taking up extra space. Energy is supplied by a fifth-generation high-voltage lithium-ion battery integrated into the underbody, providing 18.7 kWh of usable capacity and an electric range of up to 50 miles² (WLTP). AC charging capacity rises to 11 kW, allowing a full charge from empty in 2 hr 15 minutes. From a conventional domestic socket, a full charge takes around 10 hours and 45 minutes.

In the BMW 750e xDrive, the combustion engine and electric motor deliver a system output of 489 hp, with the straight-six contributing 313 hp, and maximum system torque of 700 Nm. The sprint from 0 to 62 mph takes 4.8 seconds and top speed is electronically limited to 155 mph. In all-electric mode, the vehicle can reach 87 mph. WLTP combined consumption is 46.3 – 56.5 mpg, plus 17.7 – 16.2 kWh of electricity per 62 miles, with combined CO₂ emissions of 138 – 113 grams per kilometre.

The plug-in hybrid BMW M Performance model, the BMW M760e xDrive, has an increased power output. The output of the combustion engine rises to 426 hp, taking the combined system output to 612 hp – an increase of 41 hp over the outgoing model. Peak torque is 800 Nm. Acceleration from rest to 62 mph takes 4.2 seconds. Top speed is electronically limited to 155 mph, or 87 mph in all-electric mode. WLTP combined consumption is 41.5 – 50.4 mpg, plus 18.2 – 16.7 kWh of electricity per 62 miles. A model-specific exhaust system adds an M-specific soundtrack to match the car’s sporty character.

Driver assistance systems and driving dynamics.

SAE Level 2 driver assistance and active safety add tangible value.
The new BMW 7 Series features enhanced SAE Level 2 driver assistance systems and active safety functions from the Neue Klasse technology clusters, supported by BMW Symbiotic Drive. With the optional Motorway and City Assistant³, customers benefit from navigation-guided Entry‑2‑Exit assistance on motorways and Address‑2‑Address assistance in urban traffic.

BMW Symbiotic Drive: assistance that stays transparent and keeps the driver engaged.
BMW’s Level 2 systems are engineered for seamless cooperation between human driving behaviour and intelligent assistance. The goal is not maximum automation in every scenario, but a safe, high-benefit experience that remains intuitive and controllable at all times. Even with assistance active, the driver can continue to accelerate, steer or brake without immediately cancelling the function. Active safety functions work unobtrusively in the background – for example, Lane Keeping Assistant assesses steering behaviour and where the driver is looking and intervenes with warnings or steering inputs only if the vehicle is unintentionally drifting out of its lane or a collision risk is detected.

Motorway Assistant enables hands-free driving up to 81 mph – now available in many European countries and beyond.
Motorway Assistant supports hands-free driving on motorways at speeds of up to 81 mph (subject to local legislation) and enables BMW Maps-based, navigation-guided Entry‑2‑Exit driving. It performs assisted lane changes once the driver confirms with an eye signal and can also negotiate motorway junctions. (Date for UK market availability subject to confirmation.)

Navigation-guided “Address-2-Address” assistance with the new City Assistant.
With BMW Maps route guidance active, City Assistant supports the driver when turning off, handling right-of-way situations, braking and pulling away at traffic lights (even with no vehicle ahead), negotiating roundabouts and changing lanes in urban areas – provided the system detects the driver is paying attention. It also offers extensive support without active route guidance. Like Motorway Assistant, City Assistant combines vehicle sensors with artificial intelligence and an accurate digital map to handle challenging situations naturally – for example, moving forward confidently when filtering into traffic. During an Address‑2‑Address journey, BMW Symbiotic Drive ensures the assistance follows the driver’s wishes, allowing natural inputs (braking, steering and acceleration) without deactivating the system for seamless driver-vehicle interaction.

Standard-fitted Driving Assistant Plus makes steering and braking easier.
Driving Assistant Plus is standard on the BMW 7 Series. On request, it can control the speed, distance to the vehicle ahead and helps the driver keep the vehicle centred in its lane. It can also adjust speed automatically to detected speed limits and proactively slow for corners, roundabouts and turns. The driver must remain alert and ready to take over whenever driver assistance systems are in use.

An enhanced range of standard active safety functions.
With BMW Symbiotic Drive, active safety functions intervene only when danger is detected, the driver is distracted or not fully in control. Standard features include Lane Keeping Assistant with active lane return, automatic evasion manoeuvres within the car’s own lane, lane change warning, and Side Collision Warning with steering intervention when there is a risk of lateral impact. Crossing Traffic Warning and automatic braking also support the driver when turning into a road or exiting a parking space. The Emergency Brake Assistant with Evasion Assistant can help prevent frontal collisions using maximum braking power if required, and now also responds to wildlife crossing the road. In addition, the exit warning function can delay door opening if an object is detected.

Parking assistance with AI integration.
Standard Park Assist enables assisted parking, and a newly designed surround-area visualisation makes selecting detected parking spaces more intuitive. Manoeuvres are now completed quicker and smoother. Optional Parking Assistant Plus adds a 360° all-round view. Manoeuvre Assistant can record and perform recurring manoeuvres over distances of up to 200 metres. Parking Assistant Professional adds further functionality, including remote parking and stored manoeuvres from up to six metres away via the My BMW app. Driver and parking assistance functions can be added at any time via the BMW ConnectedDrive Store.

Adaptive two-axle air suspension with electronically controlled dampers as standard.
All variants of the new BMW 7 Series feature adaptive two-axle air suspension with automatic self-levelling and electronically controlled dampers as standard. Air supply is managed individually at each wheel to balance uneven loads and maintain optimum ride height at all speeds. The system also adjusts body height to suit conditions, for example, in SPORT mode the body lowers by 10 millimetres. Ride height can be increased by 20 mm when navigating rough roads or steep ramps.

Electronically controlled dampers are regulated separately at each wheel, improving ride quality and handling. Damping adapts smoothly and continuously to the road surface and driving style. The base setting also changes in SPORT mode, tuning the damper response for dynamic driving.

Integral Active Steering.
Standard-fitntegral Active Steering makes manoeuvring easier, boosts agility at moderate speeds and increases stability when cornering or changing lanes at higher speeds. Depending on speed, the rear wheels steer by up to 3.5 degrees in the same or opposite direction to the front wheels. At low speeds, opposite-direction rear steering reduces the turning circle by around 0.8 metres. BMW M Performance models receive specific tuning for Adaptive Chassis Control.

With optional Adaptive Chassis Control Professional, ride comfort is further enhanced while also increasing agility and steering precision. It adds active roll stabilisation, using a centrally positioned 48V electric motor and active anti-roll bars to counter lateral forces and reduce body roll quickly and precisely when cornering. Adaptive Chassis Control Professional is standard fit on M Performance models.

Digital tyre diagnosis uses artificial intelligence to analyse pressure loss and wear.
In addition to a tyre pressure indicator for each wheel, the new BMW 7 Series includes digital tyre diagnosis as standard. Unique in this segment, an AI-supported, cloud-based algorithm can detect pressure loss much earlier than the vehicle’s Tyre Pressure Monitor. If pressure loss is detected, the driver receives a notification and recommended action via the My BMW App. Statistical data and AI methods can also be used to predict tyre wear and forecast remaining tyre life until the recommended minimum tread depth is reached.

Sustainability and production.

Secondary materials, renewable energy, and product and process innovations are key contributors to reducing supply-chain CO₂e. The Gen6 cells in the BMW i7 high‑voltage battery are produced largely using renewable electricity, including for anode and cathode materials. They also incorporate secondary lithium, cobalt and nickel. Together, these measures are expected to cut supply-chain CO₂e emissions by around 30 per cent versus the previous generation.

From 2026, newly designed allow wheels for the BMW i7 will contain 70 per cent secondary aluminium. Both aluminium electrolysis and alloy production utilise renewable energy.

All variants of the new BMW 7 Series will be produced at BMW Group Plant Dingolfing in Lower Bavaria, the Group’s lead plant for luxury BMW models. The new flagship saloon celebrates its world premiere on 22 April 2026. The start of production and UK market launch will follow in September 2026.

Ends

1. Will be rolled out gradually for all BMW models with BMW Operating System 9 and X from the second half of 2026 at the latest. Availability will be gradually expanded, starting with the German and US markets.
2. At temperatures below -10° Celsius, the plug-in hybrid models’ all-electric drive functionality will only be enabled once the battery has warmed up to operating temperature after a few miles of driving.
3. Rollout starts in late 2026 in Germany. It will then be gradually expanded to many other European countries via over-the-air updates.

The BMW Group

With its four brands, BMW, MINI, Rolls-Royce and BMW Motorrad, the BMW Group is the world’s leading premium manufacturer of automobiles and motorcycles and also provides premium financial services. The BMW Group production network comprises over 30 production sites worldwide; the company has a global sales network in more than 140 countries.

In 2025, the BMW Group sold 2.46 million passenger vehicles and more than 202,500 motorcycles worldwide. The profit before tax in the financial year 2025 was € 10.2 billion on revenues amounting to € 133,5 billion. As of 31 December 2025, the BMW Group had a workforce of 154,540 employees.

The economic success of the BMW Group has always been based on long-term thinking and responsible action. Sustainability is a key element of the BMW Group’s corporate strategy and covers all products – from the supply chain through production to the end of their useful life.

www.bmwgroup.com
LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/company/bmw-group/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/bmwgroup
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bmwgroup
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bmwgroup

For further information please contact:

Tom Evans
Senior Press Officer, BMW
Tel: 07815 371 705
Email: Tom.Evans@bmw.co.uk

James Morrison
Head of Product Communications
Tel: 07815 372 646
Email: James.Morrison@bmw.co.uk

Christina Burnham-Hepe
Corporate Communications Director
Tel: 07815 371 206
Email: Christina.Burnham-Hepe@bmw.co.uk 

Note: This press release is a 1:1 copy of the original issued by BMW headquarters in Germany. No adaptions have been made to cater to the UK market. 

Munich. In line with its sustainability strategy, the BMW Group is once again systematically leveraging product sustainability innovations in the new BMW 7 Series. This is evident, for example, in the use of a new battery cell technology and a higher percentage of secondary material in the wheel rims. These measures represent a targeted further development, applying proven sustainability approaches to another BMW model.

Sixth-generation (Gen6) battery cells in the new BMW i7: Measures to reduce CO₂e in core component.
Essential levers for reducing supply chain CO₂e emissions include increased use of secondary materials and renewable energies, in combination with selected product and process innovations.
Gen6 battery cells for the BMW i7’s high-voltage battery are manufactured exclusively using energy from renewable sources. The same applies to production of the necessary anode and cathode active material. Cell production also relies in part on secondary raw materials for the lithium, cobalt and nickel required. This reduces the overall supply chain CO₂e footprint of the Gen6 battery cell in the new BMW i7 60 xDrive by approximately 33 percent compared to the previous Gen5 cell used in the BMW i7 to date.

Aluminium wheels with high percentage of secondary raw materials.
From 2026, selected rim designs for the BMW i7 will be available with 70 percent secondary aluminium. Electrolysis of the remaining primary aluminium, as well as wheel rim production, is carried out in part using renewable energy. All components with a high percentage of secondary raw materials meet the BMW Group’s same strict quality standards, while also contributing to resource efficiency.

Enhanced efficiency during use phase.
With its EfficientDynamics technology package, the BMW Group optimises vehicle efficiency across all relevant subsystems during the use phase. This includes aerodynamics, lightweight construction, rolling resistance and overall energy management. EfficientDynamics has been used by the BMW Group across all drive technologies since 2007.

Production at BMW Group Plant Dingolfing.
All model variants of the new BMW 7 Series Sedan are produced at BMW Group Plant Dingolfing. The facility in Lower Bavaria, the Group’s primary plant for BMW luxury cars, increasingly relies on renewable energy for electricity and heating. 100 percent of its external electricity comes from renewable sources, some of which is also generated directly on site. In late 2025, an approximately 100,000-square-metre rooftop photovoltaic system with an output of almost 11 MWp was commissioned at the facility. In addition, a biomass heating plant went on-stream late last year to ensure that locally-produced heat is partially supplied from renewable energy sources.

In line with BMW Group’s sustainable development goals.
The BMW Group’s commitment to the Paris Climate Agreement and to reaching “net zero” no later than 2050 is an integral part of its holistic 360° approach to sustainability, which is anchored in its corporate strategy. The BMW Group has set itself ambitious science-based CO₂e targets for the coming years and intends to reduce its CO₂e emissions by a total of at least 40 million tonnes from 2019 levels by 2030.

Transparency through BMW Vehicle Footprint.
The BMW Group has published its vehicles’ Product Carbon Footprint, as validated by the German Technical Inspection Association (TÜV), in the so-called Vehicle Footprint for several years. This report is publicly available here for all drive trains of the new BMW 7 Series from the start of production and can also be accessed in the My BMW app. In this way, the BMW Group creates transparency around the percentage of secondary materials and CO₂e emissions throughout the vehicle’s lifecycle.

BMW Group UK finishes January in a strong position, announcing several model updates to further enhance its already-compelling product portfolio. BMW iX1 and BMW iX2 benefit from an increased range thanks to technological refinements, while BMW 2, 3 and 4 Series model derivatives receive an elevated M Sport Pro offering. Building on a successful month of accolades, the BMW i7 was named overall winner at the Professional Driver Car of the Year awards. Meanwhile, BMW and MINI retained Company Car and Van’s overall Fleet Manufacturer of the Year title for a second consecutive year. Furthermore, a raft of BMW M5 models, finished in BMW Individual exterior paint, join the UK press fleet and will soon be available for testing.

Introducing a range of BMW model updates from March 2026.
From March 2026 onwards, BMW iX1 and BMW iX2 models will benefit from an increased all-electric range thanks to the implementation of silicon-carbide semiconductor components in the power electronics (SiC inverter). This technology enables greater efficiency and reduced consumption, resulting in a single-charge range of up to 320 miles (WLTP¹) in the case of the BMW iX1 eDrive20, while xDrive30 models will be able to cover a maximum of 290 miles¹ between charge stops. BMW iX2 models will deliver comparable efficiency, with up to 320 miles¹ and up to 297 miles¹ achievable in eDrive20 and xDrive30 variants respectively.

Also arriving in spring are new elevated M Sport Pro models for BMW 2, 3 and 4 Series derivatives. Previously packaged as a standalone option in conjunction with the M Sport trim level, the new standalone M Sport Pro models bring an increased level of standard equipment, including 19-inch M Sport alloy wheels, red-painted brake callipers, Adaptive LED Headlights and darkened exterior design features. Available to order from retailers nationwide, first deliveries of the new M Sport Pro models will take place in April 2026.

In addition to these model updates, from February 2026 production, all BMW models will be adorned with the new BMW roundel – first showcased on the all-new BMW iX3. A revised BMW M logo will be introduced at the same time. 

BMW triumphs at the 2026 Professional Driver Car of the Year awards.
BMW UK celebrated a successful evening at the 2026 Professional Driver Car of the Year awards after the BMW i7 was crowned overall Car of the Year. Alongside the headline award, the flagship saloon topped the Chauffeur Car category, while the BMW 550e xDrive was selected by Professional Driver readers as Executive Car of the Year.

Commenting on the success of the BMW i7, Professional Driver Editor, Mark Bursa said, “The new 7-series has become a game-changer in the chauffeur market, giving drivers and operators a practical and supremely luxurious electric limousine. In London especially, TfL insists that new licensed cars have to be electric, and the i7 is the only really suitable option.”

The Professional Driver Awards are judged by the publication’s readership, who test and score more than 50 cars during an intensive single-day judging event held in August. The awards were announced at the Professional Driver awards dinner at the Brighton Metropole Hotel yesterday evening.

Double success for BMW Group at the 2026 Company Car and Van Awards.
The annual Company Car and Van Awards provide expert guidance to those responsible for shaping company fleets across the UK, recognising the best manufacturers and vehicles for specific fleet use cases.

At this year’s awards, BMW and MINI were named as the overall Fleet Manufacturer of the Year for the second consecutive year. Commenting on the win, Andrew Walker, Editor of Company Car and Van said, “They’ve cemented their position again as the most forward-thinking premium brands across all car sizes. A worthy winner. Every company car sector is covered from the MINI Cooper Electric to the updated BMW iX”.

In addition to the leading award, the recently revised BMW iX was presented the award for Premium Car of the Year. Judges praised its “amazing” drive and highlighted its “class-leading” interior. “Not one to stand still, BMW took a very good car in the iX and in 2025 made it even better, simplifying the model line-up and tweaking it here and there to make it drive and handle even better than before,” Walker added.

A raft of BMW M5 models finished in BMW Individual paint join the UK press fleet.
BMW UK recently added six new BMW M5 models in a range of special BMW Individual exterior paint finishes to its press fleet. The six cars include both Saloon and Touring body styles enveloped in Le-Mans Blue, Wildberry, Malachite Green, Chalk Grey, Anglesey Green and Fashion Grey paint finishes.

From legendary classics to innovative new shades, the BMW Individual paint programme comprises over 150 exclusive colours, offering BMW’s most discerning customers the opportunity to uniquely personalise their vehicle over and above the core options list.

The shades carefully selected for the new range of BMW M5 press cars gently nod to the brand’s rich heritage. For example, the Le-Mans-Blue-painted BMW M5 Saloon is a homage to the iconic 24-hours of Le Mans race – where BMW last took overall victory with the V12 LMR in 1999 – and matches the E39 BMW M5 from BMW UK’s heritage fleet.

For more information on BMW Individual, please click here.


Ends


1. The Worldwide Harmonised Light Vehicle Test Procedure (WLTP) is for comparison only. Actual range varies with vehicle specification and equipment, state of charge, battery condition, driving style, in-car system use, route and ambient temperature.


The BMW Group

With its four brands BMW, MINI, Rolls-Royce and BMW Motorrad, the BMW Group is the world’s leading premium manufacturer of automobiles and motorcycles and also provides premium financial services. The BMW Group production network comprises over 30 production sites worldwide; the company has a global sales network in more than 140 countries.

In 2024, the BMW Group sold over 2.45 million passenger vehicles and more than 210,000 motorcycles worldwide. The profit before tax in the financial year 2024 was € 11.0 billion on revenues amounting to € 142.4 billion. As of 31 December 2024, the BMW Group had a workforce of 159,104 employees.

The economic success of the BMW Group has always been based on long-term thinking and responsible action. Sustainability is a key element of the BMW Group’s corporate strategy and covers all products from the supply chain and production to the end of their useful life.

www.bmwgroup.com

LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/company/bmw-group/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/bmwgroup

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bmwgroup

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bmwgroup

X: https://www.x.com/bmwgroup


For further information please contact:

Sam Buckingham
Press Officer, MINI
Tel: 07815 362 262
Samuel.Buckingham@mini.co.uk

Tom Evans
Senior Press Officer, BMW
Tel: 07815 371 705
Email: Tom.Evans@bmw.co.uk

James Morrison
Head of Product Communications
Tel: 07815 372 646
Email: James.Morrison@bmw.co.uk

Christina Burnham-Hepe
Corporate Communications Director
Tel: 07815 371 206
Email: Christina.Burnham-Hepe@bmw.co.uk

BMW Group UK maintains its momentum heading into the final quarter of the year having collected a variety of industry accolades. Celebrated for its class-leading product lineup, benchmark fleet management and gold-standard UK manufacturing operations, the company continues to set the standard across various sectors.

All-new BMW iX3 honoured as Carwow’s Tech Trailblazer .
Premiering a broad spectrum of innovations and new technologies, the all-new BMW iX3 was honoured as Carwow’s Tech Trailblazer at the publication’s annual Car of the Year Awards. Judges were impressed with the SAV’s advancements, with Mat Watson, Chief Content Officer at Carwow, commenting, “Most new cars barely nudge at the needle of progress, but the new BMW iX3 pushes it so far along that it’s basically tied itself into a knot. Its sophisticated underpinnings offer hyper-fast charging, a massive battery allowing over 500 miles of range and a minimalist but rich digital experience.”

Arriving as the first series-produced Neue Klasse model, the BMW iX3 marks a significant milestone for BMW Group in the company’s journey towards enhanced electrification, digitalisation and circularity. “The new BMW iX3 is a car to get excited about, not just for what it is, but for what it represents - the march of progress.” Watson continued.

BMW 7 Series named Best Luxury Car for the third consecutive year at the Parkers New Car Awards 2026.
Now in its ninth year, the Parkers New Car Awards reflect the ever-changing needs of Britain’s car-buying public, where winners are selected based on a combination of expert reviews and consumer purchasing trends. Following this year’s ceremony, the BMW 7 Series continues its reign as Parkers’ Best Luxury Car, leading the category for the third consecutive year.

Introduced in 2022, the latest-generation BMW 7 Series continues to demonstrate why it is regarded as the ultimate luxury saloon, combining “comfort, innovation and sophistication” to portray the “ultimate expression of modern luxury.” Parkers judges paid tribute to the model’s “class, comfort and poise” alongside its versatility – offering “masses of appeal for businesses, drivers and, most importantly, the VIP in the back.”

Triple victory for BMW Group UK at the Auto Express Used Car Awards.
Auto Express recently announced its favourite used cars for 2025, where the BMW 3 Series was crowned overall Used Car of the Year. Utilising the industry-leading Driver Power survey, the annual awards help customers identify the best used cars across a range of categories.

In addition to claiming the headline accolade, the BMW 3 Series also topped the Best Compact Executive Car category, “proving it’s a car that has everything”, said Paul Barker, Editor of Auto Express. “It drives well, is practical and well-equipped and best answers the question where Auto Express team would spend their own money.” With its diverse lineup of powertrains and body styles, “From efficient diesels to hybrids or high-power petrol models, and saloon or Touring estate, there’s a 3 Series for everyone,” he added.

The MINI Convertible was also firm favourite, retaining its position as Best Used Convertible. Auto Express’ “champion drop-top” impressed with its “cheeky looks and great handling.” It’s a car “that easily puts a smile on your face,” Barker concluded.

BMW 3 Series awarded Premium Used Car of the Year at Motor Trader Industry Awards.
Adding a further award to its cabinet, the BMW 3 Series was unveiled as Premium Used Car of the Year at the annual Motor Trader Industry Awards. The judging panel described the BMW 3 Series as “the ‘gold standard’ for affordable, driver-focused transport in the premium segment”, praising its “brilliantly connected driving experience” and versatile selection of powertrains.

Success for BMW Group at the Autovista Residual Value Awards.
BMW Group collected three accolades at the 2025 Autovista Residual Value Awards. Evaluated across seventeen European countries and based on insightful data, these awards recognise vehicles that demonstrate excellent value retention across a number of categories.

The BMW 1 Series topped the Compact Car category, “attracting buyers with its promise of premium quality, sporty driving dynamics, and advanced technology”, said Autovista. Meanwhile, MINI secured two titles, as the MINI Aceman emerged as best Small BEV, and the MINI Cooper retained its position as leader of the Small Car category. The MINI Aceman was described as “a fresh and fashionable entry into the premium small BEV market”, while the MINI Cooper was commended for its reputation as “fun to drive”, combined with a “high-quality interior and extensive customisation options.”

BMW Group secures two headline accolades at the Fleet News FN50 Awards.
Widely recognised as setting the standard for industry excellence, the annual Fleet News FN50 Awards acknowledge success and innovation across the UK’s automotive sector. This year, BMW Group triumphed securing both headline awards: Most Reliable Carmaker and Most Reliable Car - awarded to the BMW 3 Series.

Reflecting on BMW Group’s success, Andrew Jago, General Manager, Corporate Sales BMW Group UK commented, “Once again, data from the UK’s 50 largest leasing companies has confirmed BMW Group as the most reliable carmaker based on breakdown and warranty claims. This is the tenth occasion that BMW and MINI have shared this accolade, underlining our commitment to quality and consistency.

We are equally proud that the BMW 3-Series retains its title as the most reliable car for the sixth consecutive year. After 50 years and seven generations, the world’s bestselling premium car is the industry benchmark for sheer driving pleasure and reliability.”

MINI Plant Oxford awarded a VisitEngland Gold Visitor Attraction Accolade for 2024-25.
In recognition of its comprehensive plant tour experience, MINI Plant Oxford recently received a VisitEngland Gold Visitor Attraction Accolade for 2024–2025. Based on scores achieved during its annual Visitor Attraction Quality Scheme assessment, a Gold accolade was awarded for demonstrating excellence, quality and an “amazing visitor experience”, whilst acknowledging “the people who give the warmest welcomes”.

Open to the public, plant tours at the home of MINI offer a unique opportunity to witness all stages of production, showcasing the assembly of up to 800 MINIs daily from Body in White to the final quality checks. To learn more, visit MINI Plant Oxford Tour.

MINI Plants Oxford and Swindon recognised for Operational Excellence.
MINI Plant Oxford and MINI Plant Swindon have received a Manufacturer MX Award for demonstrating Operational Excellence. Delivered by The Manufacturer in partnership with the Instiutution of Mechanical Engineers, the annual awards encourage, benchmark and celebrate manufacuring excellence across every stage. This year, both plants were recognised for their lean methodologies and techniques to enhance, “quality, cost, productivity, physical waste, reduction, customer service and safety”. Addititional commendation was given for fostering an engaged workforce and a culture of continuous improvement.


Ends

The BMW Group

With its four brands BMW, MINI, Rolls-Royce and BMW Motorrad, the BMW Group is the world’s leading premium manufacturer of automobiles and motorcycles and also provides premium financial services. The BMW Group production network comprises over 30 production sites worldwide; the company has a global sales network in more than 140 countries.

In 2024, the BMW Group sold over 2.45 million passenger vehicles and more than 210,000 motorcycles worldwide. The profit before tax in the financial year 2024 was € 11.0 billion on revenues amounting to € 142.4 billion. As of 31 December 2024, the BMW Group had a workforce of 159,104 employees.

The economic success of the BMW Group has always been based on long-term thinking and responsible action. Sustainability is a key element of the BMW Group’s corporate strategy and covers all products from the supply chain and production to the end of their useful life.

www.bmwgroup.com
LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/company/bmw-group/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/bmwgroup
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bmwgroup
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bmwgroup
X: https://www.x.com/bmwgroup

For further information please contact:

Sam Buckingham
Press Officer, MINI
Tel: 07815 362 262
Samuel.Buckingham@mini.co.uk

Tom Evans
Senior Press Officer, BMW
Tel: 07815 371 705
Email: Tom.Evans@bmw.co.uk

James Morrison
Head of Product Communications
Tel: 07815 372 646
Email: James.Morrison@bmw.co.uk

Christina Burnham-Hepe
Corporate Communications Director
Tel: 07815 371 206
Email: Christina.Burnham-Hepe@bmw.co.uk

BMW Group UK enters autumn in a strong position, having collected a variety of industry accolades at recent awards. Four of which were collected at the What Car? Electric Car Awards 2025, where the BMW i7 retained its Best Electric Luxury Car title for the third consecutive year. Similar success followed at the annual Towcar of the Year Awards with three category wins, including a double for the recently updated BMW iX. Meanwhile, MINI further strengthens its model lineup with the introduction of the new MINI Countryman E Monochrome, offering a sleek design and an enhanced standard specification.

BMW Group collects four awards at the What Car? Electric Car Awards 2025.
BMW Group recently secured four category wins at the What Car? Electric Awards, which each year celebrate the best electric vehicles (EVs) currently available for the UK market. Considering innovation, performance and sustainability, the awards help consumers identify the best EVs across a range of categories.

The BMW i7 was named Best Electric Luxury Car for the third consecutive year, as BMW continues to “set the standard” for electric luxury cars, said What Car? Editor, Steve Huntingford. “The i7 and iX are both so good that they’ve earned our maximum five-star rating.” Continuing its status as class-leader, the flagship saloon was praised by judges for its “incredible comfort”, “beautiful” finish, unique technology – such as the “fabulous 8K cinema screen” – and its “uncanny ability to shut out unwanted noise.”

Also celebrated by the publication was the BMW 330e, which claimed the title for Best Used Hybrid Executive Car. Commenting on the win, Huntingford praised its “low running costs”, “driver appeal”, and “plush interior”. Meanwhile, the BMW 530e secured the Best Used Hybrid Estate award, offering “space, quality and efficiency that’s unmatched”. The final trophy of the night was presented to the MINI Cooper SE Countryman ALL4, which topped the Best Used Hybrid Small SUV category, thanks to its impressive reliability – scoring 99.7 per cent in the recent What Car? Reliability Survey – and class-leading refinement.

BMW iX and BMW X3 commended at the annual Towcar of the Year Awards.
Continuing its winning streak, BMW celebrated success at the Caravan and Motorhome Club Towcar of the Year Awards – an annual celebration of the best cars currently available for consumers with towing needs. To qualify, all manufacturers must take part in a rigorous testing process across four days at Millbrook Proving Ground. Participating models are scored on practicality, innovation and overall driving experience, in addition to their all-important towing capacity.

The recently revised BMW iX secured two awards, leading both the Caravan Weight over 2,000kg and Electric Towcar categories. On presenting the accolades, judges named the iX “one of its star performers”, and paid tribute to the adaptive air suspension’s ability to “keep everything stable, composed and level when hitched, while regenerative braking helped control descents.”

An additional title was presented to the BMW X3 M50 xDrive, after topping the Caravan Weight 1700-1800kg category. Judges commended the M Performance model’s towing capabilities, stating, “The [BMW] X3 undeniably has a quality feel, especially when towing: it’s stable, secure and delivers immense confidence when braking.” The panel were equally impressed by its driving dynamics; “it’s a really fun car to drive that offers class-leading acceleration performance,” they continued.

Introducing the new MINI Countryman E Monochrome.
MINI is pleased to introduce the new MINI Countryman E Monochrome. The largest member of the MINI family is the third model to receive the Monochrome treatment, following the launch of the MINI Cooper Electric Monochrome and the MINI Aceman Monochrome in July.

Like its siblings, the special edition is offered in a fixed specification, where customers can select from Midnight Black or Nanuq White exterior paint finishes and benefit from an increased level of standard equipment, including MINI Navigation with Head-Up Display, wireless charging and LED headlights. Black 18-inch Asteroid Spoke alloy wheels are also standard, alongside a body-coloured roof for a seamless finish.

Inside, an Anthracite headliner is accompanied by a model-exclusive interior pattern, where the new multitone fabric spreads across the front and rear seats, finished with white and yellow stitching.

The MINI Countryman E Monochrome is equipped with a 64.6 kWh battery, enabling 10–80-per-cent charging in 29 minutes when using a 130 kW DC charger. The model is priced at £32,595 OTR, with initial customer deliveries commencing in January 2026.

For more information about the MINI Monochrome lineup, visit mini.co.uk.

Ends


The BMW Group

With its four brands BMW, MINI, Rolls-Royce and BMW Motorrad, the BMW Group is the world’s leading premium manufacturer of automobiles and motorcycles and also provides premium financial services. The BMW Group production network comprises over 30 production sites worldwide; the company has a global sales network in more than 140 countries.

In 2024, the BMW Group sold over 2.45 million passenger vehicles and more than 210,000 motorcycles worldwide. The profit before tax in the financial year 2024 was € 11.0 billion on revenues amounting to € 142.4 billion. As of 31 December 2024, the BMW Group had a workforce of 159,104 employees.

The economic success of the BMW Group has always been based on long-term thinking and responsible action. Sustainability is a key element of the BMW Group’s corporate strategy and covers all products from the supply chain and production to the end of their useful life.

www.bmwgroup.com

LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/company/bmw-group/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/bmwgroup

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bmwgroup

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bmwgroup

X: https://www.x.com/bmwgroup


For further information please contact:

Sam Buckingham
Press Officer, MINI
Tel: 07815 362 262
Samuel.Buckingham@mini.co.uk

Tom Evans
Senior Press Officer, BMW
Tel: 07815 371 705
Email: Tom.Evans@bmw.co.uk

James Morrison
Head of Product Communications
Tel: 07815 372 646
Email: James.Morrison@bmw.co.uk

Christina Burnham-Hepe
Corporate Communications Director
Tel: 07815 371 206
Email: Christina.Burnham-Hepe@bmw.co.uk

BMW UK is proud to announce a new partnership with Corinthia London to elevate guest experiences with the BMW i7. Through this collaboration, the exclusive London property adds BMW’s all-electric flagship to its house fleet to provide a luxury chauffeur-driven service for its guests. 

In addition, BMW owners who have booked accommodation with Corinthia London can benefit from complimentary valet parking when presenting their MyBMW app upon arrival.

Corinthia London offers the BMW i7 as its House Car, situated permanently at the front of the hotel on Whitehall Place and available from 11am to 9pm daily for guests on a first come, first served basis. The House Car travels from Corinthia London for drop-off journeys only, within a 1.5-mile radius of the hotel, reaching many popular nearby attractions including historical and cultural landmarks, award-winning theatre and musical destinations, and world-class dining venues across the city. Guests of the hotel can also book the BMW i7 for cross-city, longer distance, and airport transfers via Corinthia London’s Concierge, facilitated by chauffeur company, Chabé.

While seated in the rear compartment of the BMW i7, passengers can unwind in a reclining seat with an integrated leg rest and immerse themselves in an unparalleled entertainment experience with the revolutionary 31.3-inch 8K BMW Theatre Screen, featuring Amazon Fire TV.

Synonymous with exclusivity and critically acclaimed as the class-leading premium saloon, the BMW i7 was revealed in 2022 and has gone on to redefine luxury in the all-electric saloon segment. With its innovative technology and features, the flagship model successfully delivers exceptional long-distance comfort and unmatched digital experiences for the BMW brand’s most discerning customers.

On the corner of Whitehall beside the River Thames, the 279-room Corinthia London is a reflection of the city’s dynamic spirit. Opened in 2011, behind its grand facade and historic surroundings, is a kaleidoscopic atmosphere of delectable restaurants and bars that spoil for choice, London’s largest day spa, Penthouses with 360° views across the city, and imaginative service touches that delight in every detail.

James Morrison, Head of Business Development, BMW Luxury Class at BMW UK, said; “We are very pleased to partner with Corinthia London and bring the exceptional BMW i7 to their guests. This collaboration highlights our shared focus on delivering unmatched luxury and innovation. With its all-electric powertrain and zero tailpipe emissions, the addition of the BMW i7 to the property's concierge fleet ensures that each journey complements the premium experience that Corinthia London is known for.”

“We are delighted to partner with BMW, a brand synonymous with innovation, luxury, and sustainability—values that align with our own commitment to providing guests of Corinthia London with an exceptional experience. By introducing an electric BMW i7 as our House Car, we are not only elevating the convenience and added service touch we offer our guests, but also embracing a future-focused, environmentally conscious approach to urban travel,” adds Jochem Meijerink, Hotel Manager at Corinthia London.

To learn more about the BMW i7, please click here. For further information on Corinthia London, please click here.

Ends

About the BMW Group

With its four brands BMW, MINI, Rolls-Royce and BMW Motorrad, the BMW Group is the world’s leading premium manufacturer of automobiles and motorcycles and also provides premium financial and mobility services. The BMW Group production network comprises over 30 production sites worldwide; the company has a global sales network in more than 140 countries.

In 2023, the BMW Group sold over 2.55 million passenger vehicles and more than 209,000 motorcycles worldwide. The profit before tax in the financial year 2023 was € 17.1 billion on revenues amounting to € 155.5 billion. As of 31 December 2023, the BMW Group had a workforce of 154,950 employees.

The success of the BMW Group has always been based on long-term thinking and responsible action, from the supply chain through production to the end of the use phase of all products.


About Corinthia London – ‘London’s Magical Grand Hotel’

Located in the heart of Westminster, Corinthia London is a radiant reflection of the city’s dynamic spirit. The hotel is home to 279 guestrooms, including 55 suites and seven penthouses, with spectacular views across the capital. From bar snacks and British classics to afternoon tea and after-hours cocktails, guests of Corinthia London savour the city’s iconic flavours at three restaurants, two bars, and a grand tea lounge beautifully illuminated by a 1,001-Baccarat crystal chandelier. ESPA Life at Corinthia meanwhile is London’s most expansive day spa, set across four spellbinding floors and offering expertly curated wellness journeys, personalised treatments, and the latest innovations in well-being. Corinthia London's hallowed walls discreetly hold the tales – and secrets – of many illustrious residents and guests, from politicians to spies, real and imagined. Today, it sits at the beating heart of one of the world's most diverse cities, offering classical character just a short walk from the capital's rich cultural treasures. www.corinthia.com/en-gb/london | Instagram: @corinthialondon


For further information please contact:

Tom Evans
Senior Press Officer, BMW
Tel: 07815 371 705
Email: Tom.Evans@bmw.co.uk

Chris Overall 
BMW Media Relations Manager
Tel: 07815 370 990
Email: Chris.Overall@bmw.co.uk

Christina Burnham-Hepe
Corporate Communications Director
Tel: 07815 371 206
Email: Christina.Burnham-Hepe@bmw.co.uk

BMW has enhanced its product portfolio with the introduction of the new BMW iX1 and BMW iX2 Shadow Edition alongside an expanded range of exterior paint colours for the BMW X3 M50 xDrive and BMW Z4 M40i with Handschalter Pack. Meanwhile, BMW Group UK continues its winning streak, with both BMW and MINI receiving multiple accolades from T3, Professional Driver and Company Car & Van.

New Shadow Edition available for BMW iX1 and BMW iX2.
The most compact models within the all-electric BMW SAV lineup can now be further personalised with the introduction of the BMW iX1 and BMW iX2 Shadow Edition. This new trim option packages an expanded list of standard equipment and sporty styling features at a compelling price. Over and above the M Sport trim, customers opting for the Shadow Edition receive 19-inch alloy wheels (for BMW iX1/already standard for BMW iX2), red M Sport brake callipers, Shadow Line Adaptive LED headlights and M Sport Pro Package styling features.

Increased personalisation for the BMW X3 M50 xDrive and BMW Z4 M40i with Handschalter Pack.
First introduced last summer, the BMW X3 M50 xDrive is equipped with the most powerful six-cylinder in-line petrol engine ever fitted in an M Performance model, delivering dynamic performance capabilities which set a new benchmark for driving pleasure in its class. From launch, customers opting for the range topper could choose from eight exterior paint finishes, however from April production, the colour palette will be expanded with the addition of 490 BMW Individual paint colours, including Sao Paulo Yellow, Daytona Violet and Frozen Black.

Also benefiting from an expanded range of exterior paints is BMW Z4 M40i with Handschalter Pack. Previously finished exclusively in Frozen Deep Green with Cognac upholstery, the six-speed manual roadster can now be specified in seven exterior paint options including Skycraper Grey, Thundernight Purple and San Francisco Red. Increased personalisation continues inside the cockpit with a choice of four new interior upholsteries. 

T3 presents the Best Car Tech award to the BMW Panoramic Vision.
Following the 2025 Consumer Electronics Show (CES), T3 has compiled its list of standout technologies from the Las Vegas event, with BMW’s revolutionary Panoramic Vision emerging as the title’s top pick for in-car innovation.

The BMW Panoramic Vision is the focal point of the next-generation BMW iDrive system, which will include the latest BMW Operating System X. Rolling out on all-new BMW models launched from the end of 2025, this industry-leading head-up display concept projects content across the entire lower portion of the windscreen, with the most important driving information available directly in the driver’s line of sight.

On presenting the award T3’s Editor-in-Chief Mat Gallagher said, “In-car tech is one of the most forward-thinking platforms right now and none more so than the new BMW iDrive system. Ready to feature in the next generation of electric vehicles – known as the Neue Klasse – the iDrive OSX system combines four elements to deliver optimum driver communication.

“The highlight is the Panoramic Vision, a thin projected screen that sits under the windscreen, providing a wealth of information. The contents are customisable, allowing you to drag and drop different widgets from the specially angled centre screen. It's super futuristic and really useful for keeping all those features in your eyeline. We can't wait to see it in the upcoming iX3 later this year.”

Double success for BMW at the 2025 Professional Driver Car of the Year awards.
Two of BMW’s flagship all-electric models collected category awards at the 2025 Professional Driver Car of the Year awards. With six categories in total, the annual awards are judged by Professional Driver readers, who evaluate more than 60 cars as part of the selection process.

The BMW i5 Touring was named Estate Car of the Year with Editor Mark Bursa commenting, “The estate Car category was test, with several strong contenders for the prize. But our judges went with an electric car – and one of the newest on the market. The BMW i5 Touring is not just a refined car that’s ideal for executive chauffeuring – it’s a joy to drive too.”

Following the success of the BMW M760e xDrive at last year’s awards, the BMW 7 Series continues to lead Professional Driver’s Chauffeur Car category, with the all-electric BMW i7 taking the 2025 top spot. “The new 7-series has become a game-changer in the chauffeur market, giving drivers and operators a practical and supremely luxurious electric limousine,” said Bursa.

BMW Group triumphs at the 2025 Company Car & Van Awards.
Company Car & Van (CC&V) offers expert advice to individuals who directly influence the make-up of their company’s fleet. Each year at the CC&V Awards, the title shortlists the best vehicles for the fleet market and crowns their overall Fleet Manufacturer of the Year. For 2025, this headline award was presented to the BMW Group.

CC&V Editor Andrew Walker praised BMW Group’s comprehensive product portfolio: “With a vast choice of electric & plug-in hybrid's BMW & MINI really came of age in 2024, cementing their position as the most forward thinking premium brand across all car sizes. From the new electric Mini Cooper, Countryman & Aceman to the BMW iX2, i5, i7 updated i4, iX3 & plug-in 330e, every company car sector was covered leaving the competition trailing behind.”

Two further wins were garnered across both brands, with the BMW 5 Series and MINI Countryman each topping their respective category.

Named a “worthy” winner of the Executive Car of the Year 2025 award, the BMW 5 Series was commended for its “brilliant” drive and intuitive on-board technology. “The interior has the wow factor & in electric form, the i5 is probably the best all around electric saloon out there. If we had to choose one executive car, then the 5 Series would be it”, Walker added.

Meanwhile, the all-new MINI Countryman claimed the award for Medium Car of the Year, with judges applauding its nostalgia-infused yet technologically-advanced cabin. “It's the largest MINI yet, but don't let that worry you because both petrol & electric versions are best in class to drive, whilst offering decent interior space & a useful boot… A car we’d happily drive every day.”

Ends

About the BMW Group

With its four brands BMW, MINI, Rolls-Royce and BMW Motorrad, the BMW Group is the world’s leading premium manufacturer of automobiles and motorcycles and also provides premium financial services. The BMW Group production network comprises over 30 production sites worldwide; the company has a global sales network in more than 140 countries.

In 2024, the BMW Group sold over 2.45 million passenger vehicles and more than 210,000 motorcycles worldwide. The profit before tax in the financial year 2023 was € 17.1 billion on revenues amounting to € 155.5 billion. As of 31 December 2023, the BMW Group had a workforce of 154,950 employees.

The economic success of the BMW Group has always been based on long-term thinking and responsible action. Sustainability is a key element of the BMW Group’s corporate strategy and covers all products from the supply chain and production to the end of their useful life.

www.bmwgroup.com
LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/company/bmw-group/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/bmwgroup
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bmwgroup
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bmwgroup
X: https://www.x.com/bmwgroup


For further information please contact:

Sam Buckingham
Press Officer, MINI
Tel: 07815 362 262
Samuel.Buckingham@mini.co.uk

Tom Evans
Senior Press Officer, BMW
Tel: 07815 371 705
Email: Tom.Evans@bmw.co.uk

Helen Wilson
MINI Media Relations Manager
Tel: 07815 372 480
Email: Helen.Wilson@mini.co.uk

Chris Overall
BMW Media Relations Manager
Tel: 07815 370 990
Email: Chris.Overall@bmw.co.uk

Christina Burnham-Hepe
Corporate Communications Director
Tel: 07815 371 206
Email: Christina.Burnham-Hepe@bmw.co.uk

BMW UK is pleased to be celebrating another successful year end, collecting a host of awards across the winter period, including accolades from Top Gear, Carwow, Electrifying.com, The Car Expert and GREENFLEET. The newly launched BMW i5 received the first awards since its market launch in October 2023, with three category wins.

2023 was another hugely successful year for BMW in the UK, with the brand achieving more than 50 major independent awards. The BMW i7 continued to impress judges following its launch last year, picking up nine prizes across the year, whilst the BMW UK was awarded ‘Fleet Manufacturer of the Year’ by three industry leading outlets.

Frank van Meel collects ‘All The Car You’ll Ever Need’ win at Top Gear Awards 2023
The Top Gear Awards celebrated the greatest cars of 2023 amongst a host of industry experts and leaders in November. Flying to London especially for the awards, BMW M CEO Frank van Meel took to the stage to accept the award ‘All The Car You’ll Ever Need’ for the BMW M3 Touring, a car first World Premiered in the UK at Goodwood Festival of Speed in 2022.

The first-ever BMW M3 Touring blends blistering performance with everyday practicality with Top Gear Editor-in-Chief Jack Rix adding: “The M3 Touring hits every base on the bullseye. It’s exquisitely trimmed and lavishly equipped, yet it’ll moisten your palms, dry your throat and griddle your backside between home and the tip.”

All-new BMW i5 wins at Carwow ‘Car of the year’ Awards 2024
The Carwow 2024 awards showcased the very best cars on the market, alongside an array of highly commended alternatives, whatever a customer’s budget.  The content team - who run Carwow’s YouTube channel with over 8 million subscribers - reviewed hundreds of vehicles over 2023 and decided on 12 category winners, recognising and celebrating the cream of the crop.

Launched in the UK in October 2023, the BMW i5 is the eighth generation 5 Series and the first all-electric iteration of the model. Fusing advanced technology with elegant and sporty style, the new i5 won the ‘Comfortable Cruiser’ award from Carwow for 2024. Mat Watson, Carwow Chief Content Officer, said: “The 5 Series is BMW’s legendary saloon, so updating it always comes with pressure. But the first electric i5? Nailed it! BMW has built a posh premium electric car that’s good for the family but also good to drive, has loads of tech, buckets of performance and is a brilliant long-distance cruiser.”

Alongside the category win for the new all-electric model, BMW picked up five commendations for a variety of its models. The BMW X7 was Highly Commended in the ‘Family Values’ award category, the BMW M3 Touring was Highly Commended in ‘Desirability’ award category and the BMW M5 was Highly Commended for ‘2024's Most Anticipated New Car’. The BMW M2 was Highly Commended in the ‘Pleasure of Driving’ award category and the BMW i7 rear screens were also Highly Commended in the ‘Tech Trailblazer’ award category.

BMW i5 named Best Premium Electric Car at Electrifying.com Awards 2024
The Electrifying.com Awards are given to the brands, fully electric vehicles and innovations that an expert panel of judges believe represent a significant achievement in the field. The judging panel consisted of a variety of experienced and trusted electric car reviewers including; Founder and CEO of Electrifying.com, Ginny Buckley; Associate Editor at Electrifying.com and Formula E presenter, Nicki Shields; and experienced automotive journalist, and EV advocate, Tom Barnard.

The BMW i5 – which Electrifying.com first featured on their channel in May 2023 – has been awarded Premium Electric Car of the Year at the 2024 awards. Ginny Buckley said: “Premium cars are all about making you feel special through their quality, performance, technology and comfort. Our Electrifying.com Premium Car of the Year - the BMW i5 - has all of those attributes in spades.”

Three category wins for BMW at The Car Expert Awards 2024
Using the power of their exclusive Expert Rating Index, The Car Experts tracked new car reviews from 35 of the UK’s leading motoring websites over the last 12 months and compiled all of the scores awarded to each new model. These scores are then fed into a sophisticated algorithm that accounts for the various different scoring system that the different websites and magazines use, which then allows the awards to be given for the very best new cars customers can buy in 2023.

BMW has rounded out 2023 with not one but three category wins at The Car Expert Awards 2024, with the all-new BMW i5 being awarded Best Large Car on the night, alongside the BMW M2 receiving Best Performance Car and finally the BMW i7 being honoured with Best Luxury Car.

Stuart Masson, Editorial Director at The Car Expert, heralded the importance of the 5 Series model stating: “The arrival of any new 5 Series is a seminal moment for the car industry,” and further went on to praise the introduction of the new electric derivative “The i5 has moved straight to the top of the premium executive class, with a sublime mix of comfort, quality and advanced technology.”

For the third year running, BMW has been awarded the performance car award. Built on its predecessor with an increased performance and an enhanced specification the M2 takes the trophy for the Performance Car of the Year, Masson said: “Its performance will scare a few supercars, both in a straight line and through the trickiest of corners. A triumph.”

Finishing the year with a ninth accolade, the BMW i7 embodies luxury and technology, with the latest generation of the flagship saloon defining the luxury segment with Stuart Masson stating: “The BMW i7 has received near-universal praise from the UK media since its arrival, with its spacious and tech-laden cabin being earmarked as a particular highlight.”

BMW recognised as Fleet Car Manufacturer of the Year at 2023 GREENFLEET Awards
The 2023 GREENFLEET awards continued to celebrate environmental excellence within the fleet sector, taking a close look at organisation and individuals that have gone above and beyond to reduce transport emissions.

The event - which took place at the British Motor Museum and was attended by the BMW Corporate Sales team - saw BMW take the top spot as Fleet Car Manufacturer of the Year. Colin Boyton, GREENFLEET Event Manager, said “This was one of the most hotly-contested categories this year. A leading name on most UK fleet option lists, BMW is taking electrification seriously, with electric versions of its staple models at its core, and electric SUV models complimenting its line-up.”

GREENFLEET is the third major title to name BMW Fleet Manufacturer of the Year in 2023, following the Fleet News Awards and the Business Car Awards.

ENDS

The BMW Group
With its four brands BMW, MINI, Rolls-Royce and BMW Motorrad, the BMW Group is the world’s leading premium manufacturer of automobiles and motorcycles and also provides premium financial and mobility services. The BMW Group production network comprises over 30 production sites worldwide; the company has a global sales network in more than 140 countries.

In 2022, the BMW Group sold nearly 2.4 million passenger vehicles and more than 202,000 motorcycles worldwide. The profit before tax in the financial year 2022 was € 23.5 billion on revenues amounting to € 142.6 billion. As of 31 December 2022, the BMW Group had a workforce of 149,475 employees.

The success of the BMW Group has always been based on long-term thinking and responsible action. The company set the course for the future at an early stage and consistently makes sustainability and efficient resource management central to its strategic direction, from the supply chain through production to the end of the use phase of all products.

www.bmwgroup.com
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/BMWGroup
Twitter: http://twitter.com/BMWGroup
YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/BMWGroupView
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bmwgroup
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/bmw-group/

"WE COLLIDE" has been named the winning film of the BMW Filmmaking Challenge in partnership with the BFI. Revealed at the Closing Night of the 67th BFI London Film Festival in partnership with American Express it premiered alongside Kibwe Tavares and Daniel Kaluuya’s, ‘The Kitchen’, ahead of its release into UK cinemas and on Netflix.

Praised by judges; Ncuti Gatwa, Terri White, and Asif Kapadia for its “genius use of the ultra-wide 31.3-inch aspect ratio inspired by the rear passenger screen of the new electric BMW i7.” The winning short, written and directed by Jason Bradbury and produced by Cheri Darbon, was described as “pushing creative boundaries, while highlighting stories and characters underserved on screen with heart and tenderness.”

The filmmakers were tasked with bringing their unique stories to life in just 90 seconds, through their own creative interpretation of the theme "Evolving Perspectives”. Five shortlisted teams received a £10,000 production budget, access to 8K camera technology, support from the BFI through Executive Producer Caragh Davison and mentorship from Michaela Coel.

Embodying the spirit of queercore the winner “WE COLLIDE” is a visceral, immersive exploration of the power of the mosh pit and finding romance in the most unlikely of places, a bold interpretation of “Evolving Perspective”. The remarkable film was the unanimous winner, selected by a judging panel, all revered as industry game changers in their respective fields.

In a collaborative statement, the judges lauded the filmmakers' creativity, stating: “For us, it was unanimous: we were blown away by this film that illustrates the medium of short film, yet it could easily transition into a feature film. In just 90 seconds, this filmmaking team crafted a world filled with specificity, told a compelling story, and took us on an emotional character journey. It was brilliantly cast, confidently scripted, shot, and directed. The impactful ‘collision’ (enhanced by brilliant sound design) gave it both narrative function and cinematic intent.”

Amidst the backdrop of an evolving film industry navigating transformative challenges, Ncuti Gatwa, an actor known for his roles in Barbie and Sex Education, stated, “The film is an artistic force of nature. Every decision in the filmmaking process was filled with intent and served the narrative of the story. I knew watching the winning film that this was made by a filmmaking team that we will undoubtedly be seeing more of in the future.”

Known for his work on acclaimed documentaries, fiction films and immersive work, Asif Kapadia, Oscar® award-winning director and producer, shared his insights, “I was looking for a film that left me eager to watch it again, one that left me craving more. In 'WE COLLIDE’, there is a standout moment when the two stories and characters seamlessly merge into one—a poignant and pioneering, visually striking cinematic moment that utilises the ultrawide format inspired by the BMW i7 rear theatre screen with perfect motive.”

Terri White, renowned film journalist turned screenwriter, emphasised the importance of creating equal opportunities in the film industry “Equity of opportunity, where talent is the defining factor, is about truly creating a level playing field where possible. This challenge provided the budget, equipment, and mentorship from one of the finest actors and writers working today, bringing fresh talent to the forefront. When judging or watching any film, it may start with the eyes and ears, but it always ends up, for me, in the belly. 'WE COLLIDE' made me feel an entire raft of emotions in just 90 seconds - it took me on an entire journey. The talent we’ve experienced is insane.”

'BLADES,' directed by Christopher Chuky and produced by Tony Longe,with a script by Eno Mfon, also received a special mention. The judges described it as “a stunning film that subverts stereotypes often seen on screen, showcasing the power of self-expression and the beauty and camaraderie in friendship.”

Michaela Coel, mentor to all the shortlisted filmmakers, expressed her pride in being part of the journey with exceptional talents, stating, "It’s been an honour – my role was to encourage and push them towards the brave act of trusting their instinct; it’s important for the industry to believe that any world or culture you don’t understand is by default incredibly interesting and worth investing in with development.

The jury had an impossible task on their hands. I was incredibly impressed by the calibre and originality of the shortlisted filmmakers. Their ability to adapt to the width of the screen, and to address any production problems they had was testimony to how much they’ve learned in their careers thus far. I have always championed raw talent, and platforms such as the BMW Filmmaking Challenge in partnership with the BFI are how we discover truly shining stars in the cinematic firmament.”

The challenge set out to recruit and support aspiring filmmakers providing them with the tools and an authoritative platform to develop their careers, exploring fresh perspectives in the film industry. All five shortlisted films ‘BLADES’, ‘DAYTIMERS’, ‘RICE BALL’, ‘HEN DO” and ‘WE COLLIDE’ are available for viewing on BFI Player (https://player.bfi.org.uk), providing audiences with the opportunity to experience these ground-breaking works of cinema.

The BMW Filmmaking Challenge provides a lifeline to new talent, recognised by the sheer volume of entries received in its debut year; sharing her excitement about the competition and its profound impact, Mia Bays, Director of the BFI Filmmaking Fund, states, "We have been delighted by how successful the collaboration with BMW and the inimitable Michaela Coel has been on this new Filmmaking Challenge, offering a unique opportunity to support emerging filmmakers and the development of their craft. The creativity and filmmaking skills displayed in the five final films, and the ultimate winner, is testament to the huge amount of talent present in the UK.”

The concept of pushing boundaries is not a new one for BMW. Aside from the automotive and technological world: the brand has an extensive history of supporting the arts and nurturing breakthrough talent through initiatives like BMW Play Next and its longstanding partnership with Frieze.

For more information about the BMW Filmmaking Challenge and the BFI London Film Festival, please visit www.bfi.org.uk/lff and www.bmw.co.uk/filmmakingchallenge.

ENDS

NOTES TO EDITORS

The five shortlisted BMW Filmmaking Challenge teams included:

“BLADES”
A group of young black boys run into a building. One of them is about to do the unimaginable...

• Christopher Chuky, Director: Award-winning director of short films, theatre, and music videos
• Tony Longe, Producer: Freelance creative producer with a focus on film and promos who has worked in the screen industries
• Eno Mfon, Writer: Screenwriter, playwright, and performer with a focus on political, honest and human works

“DAYTIMERS”
An insight into Daytimers, the South Asian DJ collective that is breaking new ground in Britain.

• Tulsi Shivaan, Director and Writer: Writer and director with experience in short films, film festival circuits and a background in theatre and art
• Eliza Lewis, Producer: Producer and actor with production experience in music promos, commercials, and short films
  
  

“RICE BALL”
Told through animation, a young Taiwanese schoolkid is afraid to bring her lunch to school out of fear of being ridiculed for being different.

• Kristina Pringle, Director and Writer: A Taiwanese writer and director residing in London with experience in both narrative projects and commercials
• Samantha Locock, Producer: Freelance producer on short-form narrative and a production coordinator on commercials
• Harry Shaw, Producer: Award-winning producer
• Sophie Neophyto , Producer
  
  

“HEN DO”
En route to her hen weekend, bride-to-be Faye kills the vibe with a bombshell confession.

• Alia Ghafar, Director and Writer: Glasgow-based writer and director of short films which have screened widely at film festivals, currently developing her debut feature
• Misha McCullagh, Producer: Scottish producer with interdisciplinary experience in the creative industries
  
  

“WE COLLIDE”
A queercore romance - a visceral and immersive exploration of the power of the mosh pit and finding love in the most unlikely of places.

• Jason Bradbury, Director and Writer: Writer and director exploring the themes of home, memory and the search for belonging for LGBTQI+ people, currently developing his debut feature
• Cheri Darbon, Producer: Freelance producer with a focus on internationally appealing genre films and television

The BMW Group
With its four brands BMW, MINI, Rolls-Royce and BMW Motorrad, the BMW Group is the world’s leading premium manufacturer of automobiles and motorcycles and also provides premium financial and mobility services. The BMW Group production network comprises over 30 production sites worldwide; the company has a global sales network in more than 140 countries.

In 2022, the BMW Group sold nearly 2.4 million passenger vehicles and more than 202,000 motorcycles worldwide. The profit before tax in the financial year 2022 was € 23.5 billion on revenues amounting to € 142.6 billion. As of 31 December 2022, the BMW Group had a workforce of 149,475 employees.

The success of the BMW Group has always been based on long-term thinking and responsible action. The company set the course for the future at an early stage and consistently makes sustainability and efficient resource management central to its strategic direction, from the supply chain through production to the end of the use phase of all products.

www.bmwgroup.com

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/BMWGroup
Twitter: http://twitter.com/BMWGroup
YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/BMWGroupView
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bmwgroup
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/bmw-group/

Note: This press release is a 1:1 copy of the original issued by BMW headquarters in Germany. No adaptations have been made to cater for the UK market.

Munich. The new features set to enhance the BMW model line-up from autumn 2023 centre on the latest advances in terms of digitalisation. The new BMW X1 and BMW 2 Series Active Tourer will both be equipped with the upgraded BMW iDrive featuring QuickSelect and BMW Operating System 9 from November 2023. The BMW Digital Premium offering, with its highly customisable selection of online-based services, is also being introduced in both model series at the same time. Plus, extra digital services will be made available for a large number of current models via Remote Software Upgrade. Meanwhile, an extended range of functions will also add to the appeal of the My BMW App.

When it comes to automated driving systems, the highlight is without doubt the new Highway Assistant, which is also due to become available for models in the BMW 7 Series range from March 2024 following its premiere in the new 5 Series Sedan. Autumn 2023 will also bring additions to the choice of exterior colours and light-alloy wheels for selected models.

More intuitive and easier to use than ever: new BMW iDrive with QuickSelect.

From November 2023, the upgraded BMW iDrive with QuickSelect will be fitted as standard in all model variants of the new BMW X1, the all-electric BMW iX1 and the new BMW 2 Series Active Tourer, enabling numerous vehicle functions to be operated even more intuitively and easily. The latest incarnation of the display and control/operation system is based on BMW Operating System 9 and is packaged together with the BMW Curved Display and BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant.

The new BMW iDrive features a redesigned home screen and the QuickSelect rapid-access tech, bringing an improved menu structure that takes its cue from consumer electronics devices. The new home screen displays the navigation system’s map view or other individually configurable graphics in the control display at all times. On the same level, function icons appear in a vertical arrangement on the driver’s side of the display. Drivers can switch between icons with a vertical swipe of the finger. The QuickSelect feature allows the function selected in this way to be activated directly without having to enter a submenu.

BMW Operating System 9 was developed in-house by the BMW Group and is based on an Android Open Source Project (AOSP) software stack for the first time. It provides the basis for a broader offering of digital content that serves information and entertainment, shorter function update cycles and improved accessibility to a host of specific online services.

New BMW Digital Premium offering: customised selection of gaming, video & music streaming and other online services.

The new BMW Digital Premium offering will be brought out in Germany in November 2023 alongside the introduction of BMW Operating System 9. It will be available as an option for BMW X1, BMW iX1 and BMW 2 Series Active Tourer models and can be ordered from the BMW ConnectedDrive Store, which has now been expanded with the addition of further third-party apps. This means customers can enjoy in-car use of all the apps available in their country, e.g. for video and music streaming, news or gaming, as part of a package. In addition to this, BMW Digital Premium also includes enhanced navigation functions along with added customisation options thanks to extra My Modes, for instance.

As with all other ConnectedDrive Upgrades, BMW Digital Premium can be obtained from the ConnectedDrive Store either on the website, in the My BMW App or directly in the car. And, from November 2023, it will be even easier for customers to add ConnectedDrive Upgrades, as it will then be possible to not just select them directly from their vehicle, but to pay for them at the same time. In other words, instead of being redirected to the app or internet to complete their order, customers will be able to carry out the entire process, including payment, from the comfort of their car.

This new offering is designed to allow customers to put together a customised selection of digital services from the growing variety on offer – one that is perfectly suited to their personal requirements. BMW Digital Premium is available in Germany, for example, for €9.98 a month or from mid-2024 (provisionally) for an annual fee of €99 (both including VAT). The package also covers data usage for all digital services and the apps available from the BMW ConnectedDrive Store, including music and video streaming. Customers can take advantage of a free three-month trial period that will allow them to sample all the BMW Digital Premium services and content.

A new form of in-car gaming unique in the automotive sector is one of the highlights of BMW Digital Premium. BMW is presenting a wide selection of casual games that use a smartphone as the controller in collaboration with the AirConsole gaming platform. The games can be played in either solo or multiplayer mode when the vehicle is stationary as a way of passing the time while e.g. waiting for the high-voltage battery in the BMW iX1 or the BMW 2 Series Active Tourer plug-in hybrid models to recharge. About ten titles will initially be available to play, including racing, sport, quiz and skill games, and the range will continue to grow.

Besides audio streaming, BMW Digital Premium also lets the occupants enjoy a wide variety of video streaming services (powered by Xperi TiVo) on the control display while the car is stationary. This offers customers access to an ever-growing selection of aggregated video content, such as news and live or on-demand streaming of movies and series, for instance, along with country-specific content. Available with BMW Digital Premium in the USA, UK, South Korea, France, Italy, Germany and Spain, the Video App will feature, among other things, the Pluto, Bloomberg Television, Deutsche Welle, Al Jazeera and TED portals. In Germany, the package will additionally include the tagesschau news service app as well as the popular streaming service JOYN. Country-specific content will also be offered from the outset in Italy and the USA. The portfolio of video streaming platforms will keep evolving and will be gradually rolled out to other countries too.

Enhanced navigation functions, additional My Modes.

One of the key benefits of BMW Digital Premium is the enhanced functionality of the cloud-based navigation system BMW Maps. For example, real-time traffic information (RTTI) with colour coding shows how freely traffic is flowing across the entire map area, even if route guidance is not activated. Other functions include 3D visualisation of buildings and surrounding elements in the map view and extended information on parking facilities. The driver is also proactively notified of the current traffic situation and estimated time of arrival when setting out to destinations they drive to regularly. If necessary, the system will even propose an alternative route. Turn-off instructions and lane recommendations are shown in realistic form in both the information display and the optional BMW Head-Up Display.

In Germany and other European countries, BMW Digital Premium offers the additional benefit of allowing drivers to pay parking fees directly from their vehicle in parking zones that support this payment method. And drivers in Germany also have the option of settling fuel bills digitally from their car after refuelling at participating filling stations. In both cases, payment is made using a credit card that is first registered with the partner company Parkopedia via the My BMW App.

In addition, BMW Digital Premium adds Expressive Mode, Relax Mode and Digital Art Mode to the choice of My Modes, opening up still greater scope for customising the driving experience. And it also brings new variants for both the Welcome Light sequence and the graphics visualising the BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant. 

Current Remote Software Upgrades for enhanced driving pleasure.

The Remote Software Upgrades bring existing digital functions right up to date. At the same time, new features and improvements to quality can also be imported into the car over the air. The latest in-car gaming and video-streaming services for BMW models will be made available in this way for the majority of vehicles with BMW Operating System 8.5 in autumn 2023.

Customers also receive notification of the Remote Software Upgrades in the My BMW App. Another option is for upgrades to be downloaded via the My BMW App and transferred to the vehicle before initiating the installation process there.

Extra functions for the My BMW App.

The My BMW App for smartphones provides customers with a direct link to their car and, depending on the vehicle configuration and country, offers them the benefit of numerous functions designed to make day-to-day mobility even more straightforward. This includes information transferred to the user’s smartphone on their vehicle’s status, servicing requirements, charging status and range, as well as remote access to functions for vehicle locating, locking and unlocking the doors, climate control and monitoring the car’s immediate vicinity. Charging-optimised routes can also be planned via the My BMW App and destination addresses sent from a smartphone to the vehicle’s navigation system. From autumn 2023, it will also be possible to enter mid-journey stops as part of the process.

And from March 2024, customers with compatible Android smartphones will also be able to use the My BMW App to operate the Remote Control Parking and Manoeuvre Assistant functions available with the optional Parking Assistant Professional and BMW Digital Key Plus. The My BMW App will also indicate the status of the alarm system on suitably equipped vehicles and show how it can be fully or partially activated.

New Highway Assistant also coming soon for the BMW 7 Series.

BMW has become the first carmaker to gain approval from Germany’s Federal Motor Transport Authority for semi-automated driving at speeds up to 130 km/h (81 mph). As a result, the BMW Highway Assistant already available in the USA and Canada is now set to become an extremely innovative component of the optional Driving Assistant Professional package in Germany too. The new function lets the driver take their hands off the steering wheel and put them in a comfortable position while driving. First launched in the new BMW 5 Series Sedan, it will also become available to use in the BMW 7 Series luxury sedan from spring 2024.

The BMW Highway Assistant can operate on multi-lane roads with structurally separated carriageways, with the function’s availability indicated to the driver in the information display. On suitably designated stretches of road, the driver is able to take their hands off the steering wheel for longer periods and position them comfortably, provided they continue to pay attention to what is happening on the road and are able to take over the steering again at any time. The Active Lane Change Assistant with eye confirmation included as part of the new BMW Highway Assistant adds another layer to the automated driving experience. As soon as the traffic situation permits, it is capable of performing the necessary steering movements for an overtaking manoeuvre, for example, and adjusting the vehicle’s speed as required. Plus, for the first time, the driver is able to initiate a lane change suggested by this system by simply looking in the exterior mirror to confirm it.

Additional exterior colour for the new BMW 5 Series Sedan, new 21-inch light-alloy wheels for the 7 Series.

A new shade is already being added to the selection of exterior colours for the new BMW 5 Series Sedan, just a short time after its launch. The Fire Red metallic paint finish will be made available for the BMW i5 M60 xDrive Sedan (electric power consumption combined: 20.6 – 18.2 kWh/100 km in the WLTP cycle) from November 2023, as well as for all other model variants of the new business sedan specified with the M Sport package.

A further highly exclusive design of light-alloy wheel will be added to the range of optional extras for the BMW 7 Series from November 2023. At the same time, 21-inch BMW Individual light-alloy wheels in multi-spoke design will also be available for all model variants of the luxury sedan. They have a bi-colour finish and are fitted with mixed-size tyres.

All of the stated model variants, equipment features, technical data and fuel/electric power consumption and emissions figures relate to the offering in the German market.

• BMW Group UK collects four award wins at the What Car? Electric Car Awards 2023
• BMW 330e, i7 and i8 lead their respective categories
• MINI Countryman PHEV reclaims Best Hybrid Small SUV title

BMW Group UK was once again successful at this year’s What Car? Electric Car Awards, taking home four prized category wins across the Group’s electrified model portfolio.

The BMW 330e, i7 and i8 each secured the win in their respective class. Whilst once again the MINI Countryman PHEV won at the awards, topping the Best Hybrid Small SUV category.

For a second year in a row the BMW 330e, powered by the combination of a 2.0 litre petrol engine and an electric motor producing 292hp, took home the illustrious ‘Best Used Hybrid Executive Car’ award. Steve Huntingford, Editor, What Car? said, "If you buy used, the 330e costs less than key rivals. Yet it's more entertaining than any of them to drive, thanks to sharp, well-balanced handling. It's a comfortable car, too (particularly if you buy an example equipped with the M Sport Pro Pack), and all versions come with an infotainment system that's wonderfully intuitive."

With What Car? believing "BMW's flagship saloon is undoubtedly one of the most complete cars on sale today” the BMW i7 has added ‘Best Electric Luxury Car’ to its growing tally of awards. Offering a cutting-edge digital experience with the BMW Theatre Screen and BMW Interaction Bar, the BMW i7 combines striking style with a luxurious interior to lead its segment. What Car? states “It combines superb ride comfort and effortless performance with a long range and fast charging. What's more, it's hugely spacious and available with a rear entertainment system that offers audio and visuals worthy of the best cinemas."

Launched in 2012, the BMW i8 was a trailblazer in the performance car segment and continues to impress over 10 years on, collecting the ‘Best Used Hybrid Performance Car’ at the 2023 What Car? Electric Car Awards. Steve Huntingford said, "It may have been discontinued, but the BMW i8 still looks like the future. And in many ways it feels like it, too, with its lightweight construction boosting performance, agility and efficiency. Our advice would be to buy one while you can, because we think prices are only going to go up."

Finally, the MINI Countryman PHEV reclaimed its title as ‘Best Hybrid Small SUV’, with What Car? judges applauding its “smart interior design” and class-leading build quality. Huntingford summarises, “The Countryman takes the style of the traditional Mini hatchback and applies it to a much more practical, family-friendly package,” with a pure electric range that is “easily long enough for the school run.”

ENDS

The BMW Group

With its four brands BMW, MINI, Rolls-Royce and BMW Motorrad, the BMW Group is the world’s leading premium manufacturer of automobiles and motorcycles and also provides premium financial and mobility services. The BMW Group production network comprises over 30 production sites worldwide; the company has a global sales network in more than 140 countries.

In 2022, the BMW Group sold nearly 2.4 million passenger vehicles and more than 202,000 motorcycles worldwide. The profit before tax in the financial year 2022 was € 23.5 billion on revenues amounting to € 142.6 billion. As of 31 December 2022, the BMW Group had a workforce of 149,475 employees.

The success of the BMW Group has always been based on long-term thinking and responsible action. The company set the course for the future at an early stage and consistently makes sustainability and efficient resource management central to its strategic direction, from the supply chain through production to the end of the use phase of all products.

www.bmwgroup.com

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/BMWGroup
Twitter: http://twitter.com/BMWGroup
YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/BMWGroupView
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bmwgroup
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/bmw-group/

Note: This press release is a 1:1 copy of the original issued by BMW headquarters in Germany. No adaptations have been made to cater for the UK market.

Munich. At the IAA Mobility 2023 international motor show in Munich, the BMW Group will be presenting the most recent highlights of its ongoing transformation in the key action areas of electrification, digitalisation and circularity. The latest new models with electrified powertrains from the BMW, MINI and BMW Motorrad brands, plus Vision Vehicles and concepts for individual mobility in tomorrow’s world all serve to underline the company’s innovative strength in these fields. As the dawn of a new era in personal mobility approaches, the BMW Group is set to unveil its latest highlight, the BMW Vision Neue Klasse, which brings together the Group’s development expertise in the three crucial disciplines for the future of mobility.

The IAA Mobility show is being staged in Munich for the second time. For the BMW Group and its brands, this provides an excellent opportunity to enter into constructive dialogue on the future of individual mobility with local people, as well as with visitors to the show from outside Munich and other stakeholders. The IAA Mobility Summit at the exhibition centre and the BMW Group’s Open Space at Max-Joseph-Platz in the heart of Munich will be the main arenas where BMW, MINI and BMW Motorrad present their new products on 5 – 10 September 2023. Among the models visitors can acquaint themselves with here alongside the BMW Vision Neue Klasse is the fully electric BMW i5. And they can also experience the world premieres of the new fully electric MINI Cooper, new fully electric MINI Countryman and BMW CE 02 eParkourer.

Electric, digital, circular – the focus areas of the BMW Group.

The BMW Group’s presence at IAA Mobility 2023 revolves around the company’s rigorous focus on electric, digital and circular mobility for the future and the latest progress it has made in these areas. The BMW Vision Neue Klasse is joined by a selection of new models from across the Group’s brands whose electrified powertrains, digital innovations and resource-efficient manufacturing illustrate the ongoing process of change in a variety of ways.

The new products poised for launch by the BMW brand include the plug-in hybrid variants of the new BMW 5 Series. The new BMW i7 Protection – the first ever all-electric protection vehicle in the luxury sedan segment – is also making its debut at IAA Mobility 2023.

MINI is unveiling the members of the brand’s new model family for the first time with the help of two world premieres: the new fully electric MINI Cooper and new fully electric MINI Countryman will both be on show at the Open Space site. A new model with all-electric drive also forms the centrepiece of BMW Motorrad’s line-up at Max-Joseph-Platz. Conceived as a compact eParkourer with a trailblazing design, the new BMW CE 02 injects fresh impetus into the urban mobility scene.

Locally emission-free mobility sets the theme for the models on show.

The IAA Mobility show will be officially opened on 5 September at Munich’s exhibition centre. The BMW Group will be represented at its stand in Hall A2, where the BMW Vision Neue Klasse will be unveiled to kick off the event. The BMW i7 Protection all-electric protection vehicle will also be presented for the first time at the IAA Mobility Summit.

The IAA Mobility Summit is taking place under the banner “Experience Connected Mobility” and is aimed primarily at trade visitors. It will showcase trends and technological innovations for future mobility over the course of numerous talks, presentations and panel discussions. One of the central topics is the use of hydrogen as an energy source for current and future vehicles. BMW is carrying out pioneering work in this field with its development and practical testing of a Sports Activity Vehicle with a hydrogen-powered fuel-cell drive system. The BMW iX5 Hydrogen is also being exhibited at the Summit.

Locally emission-free mobility is also the dominant theme for the models awaiting visitors to the Open Space site. BMW has at least one purely electrically powered representative in all relevant model segments. The brand is presenting its entire line-up to the public, ranging from the BMW iX1 compact Sports Activity Vehicle via the BMW i4 and BMW i5 to the BMW iX and the BMW i7 luxury sedan.

The Open Space at Max-Joseph-Platz can be visited free of charge on 5 – 9 September from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. and on Sunday 10 September from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. In addition, BMW Welt will continue to provide an attractive destination for all automotive enthusiasts during IAA Mobility 2023. The current model portfolios of the BMW, MINI, Rolls-Royce and BMW Motorrad brands are presented here, along with the latest BMW and MINI Lifestyle collections. Plus, starting on 2 September 2023, BMW Lifestyle together with BMW M GmbH will be running a GOODS WITH FREUDE pop-up store in the Hofstatt shopping centre at No. 10 Sendlinger Straße. Located just a few minutes’ walk away from the Open Space, the store will feature both familiar lifestyle articles and the new BMW Lifestyle collection.

World premiere: the BMW Vision Neue Klasse.

At IAA Mobility 2023, the BMW Group is offering visitors a preview of the Neue Klasse – the forthcoming generation of models from BMW. The BMW Vision Neue Klasse brings together innovations from the areas of electrification, digitalisation and circularity in signature BMW style. The Vision Vehicle takes design, control/operation, efficiency and sustainability into a whole new dimension – one that it will be possible to experience on the road before long.

During IAA Mobility 2023, the BMW Vision Neue Klasse will be on show at both the Summit and the Open Space. The new Vision Vehicle incorporates the latest innovations in the BMW Group’s key future-focused fields. It therefore builds on the BMW i Vision Circular and the BMW i Vision Dee – which have already demonstrated the BMW Group’s development expertise in the areas of circular economy and digitalisation – and combines their qualities with further new developments in exterior and interior design, user experience and powertrain and battery technology.

World premiere: the plug-in hybrid variants of the new BMW 5 Series Sedan.

As well as the all-electric BMW i5, the brand is exhibiting two other model variants with electrified powertrains at IAA Mobility 2023. As early as spring 2024, two models featuring state-of-the-art plug-in hybrid technology will be added to the new BMW 5 Series Sedan range. Their six-cylinder and four-cylinder in-line petrol engines from the new modular generation of Efficient Dynamics units will each be combined with the latest BMW eDrive technology for plug-in hybrid systems. This will result in a notable increase in output and much sharper power delivery, while also significantly improving efficiency and electric range compared to the outgoing model generation.

The electric motor purpose-developed for the new plug-in hybrid system is integrated into the eight-speed Steptronic Sport transmission together with its power electronics. The highly integrated drive unit contributes up to 145 kW/197 hp to the maximum combined output of 360 kW/489 hp in the case of the new BMW 550e xDrive Sedan (fuel consumption combined: 1.1 – 0.8 l/100 km [256.8 – 353.1 mpg imp]; electric power consumption combined: 22.5 – 20.1 kWh/100 km; CO₂ emissions combined: 24 – 19 g/km in WLTP cycle, provisional figures) and 220 kW/299 hp for the new BMW 530e Sedan (fuel consumption combined: 0.8 – 0.6 l/100 km [353.1 – 470.8 mpg imp]; electric power consumption combined: 21.4 – 18.9 kWh/100 km; CO₂ emissions combined: 19 – 14 g/km in WLTP cycle, provisional figures).

A BMW-patented innovation has been used to enhance the electric motor’s power delivery in the new plug-in hybrid models: a pre-gearing stage enables the nominal torque of 280 Nm (206 lb-ft) to be increased to effective torque of up to 450 Nm (332 lb-ft) at the transmission input for the motor. The compact electric motor is therefore able to boost torque by an amount that would normally only be possible using a larger unit and makes a clear difference both when accelerating off the line and putting in a rapid burst of speed. Electric range is now up to 79 – 90 kilometres (49 – 56 miles) in the WLTP cycle for the new BMW 550e xDrive Sedan and 87 – 101 kilometres (54 – 63 miles) in the WLTP cycle for the new BMW 530e Sedan.

The lithium-ion high-voltage battery’s space-saving positioning within the vehicle’s underbody has a beneficial effect on both the car’s centre of gravity and the capacity of its luggage compartment, which holds a total of 520 litres in the plug-in hybrid models – meaning it is just as large as that offered by their purely combustion-engined siblings. The usable energy provided by the high-voltage battery has climbed to 19.4 kWh. At the same time, maximum charging capacity has doubled compared to the outdoing models and now stands at 7.4 kW, enabling the high-voltage battery to be fully recharged from empty in 3.0 hours. When hooked up to a conventional domestic power socket, a full vehicle charge is completed in 9.8 hours.

World premiere: the BMW i7 Protection.

BMW is presenting a new generation of protection vehicles in the luxury sedan segment at the IAA Mobility 2023 show. The new BMW i7 Protection (electric power consumption combined in WLTP cycle: 30.0 kWh/100 km, provisional figure) is absolutely unique in this segment, as it is the world’s first ever certified protection sedan with an all-electric drive system. Driven by two powerful electric motors, it meets all the requirements of class VR9 protection without any limitations, as does the new V8-engined BMW 7 Series Protection (fuel consumption combined in WLTP cycle: 14.6 l/100 km [19.3 mpg imp]; CO₂ emissions: 328 g/km, provisional figures).

Both models blend the integrated protection concept channelled into the development of the new BMW 7 Series range with outstanding levels of ride comfort and spaciousness, advanced equipment features and the unbeatable dynamic prowess for which BMW is renowned. The concept centres around the new and unique BMW Protection Core, which forms a self-supporting body structure made from armour steel. This is then combined with features such as additional armouring for the underbody and roof, plus armoured glass. The result is customised protection from attacks with firearms or explosives for at-risk individuals. The glass in the new protection vehicles even meets the requirements for the highest class of civilian protection, VPAM 10.

The all-electric BMW i7 Protection is equipped with one electric motor at the front axle and another at the rear. Together they generate a combined output of 400 kW/544 hp and maximum combined torque of 745 Nm (549 lb-ft), and create an electric all-wheel-drive system. The new BMW i7 Protection sprints to 100 km/h (62 mph) from rest in 9.0 seconds, while top speed is electronically limited to 160 km/h (99 mph). The instantaneous, precisely orchestrated power delivery from the two motors guarantees exceptional traction and directional stability even when the car is being driven hard and performing challenging manoeuvres, such as when escaping from an attack.

Tuned and optimised specifically for this model, the chassis technology also makes allowance for the additional weight of its armouring, resulting in superbly assured performance in any situation. Another unique offering for this segment is the inclusion of Integral Active Steering as standard. This reduces the car’s turning circle, increases agility when cornering at speed and improves driving comfort for rear-seat passengers. The 20-inch light-alloy wheels are a further standout feature. The PAX tyres that also come as standard allow the car to continue its journey at up to 80 km/h (50 mph) even in the event of a total loss of pressure.

The latest generation of BMW iDrive based on BMW Operating System 8.5 is fitted, complete with the BMW Curved Display. The system is intuitive to use and operates in a way familiar to BMW drivers. The special functions relevant to occupant protection are also operated via BMW iDrive. The new protection vehicles can also be tailored precisely to any purpose, with items including a fresh-air supply system, a fire extinguishing system, flashing lights, radio transceivers and flag poles for when the car is on official duty, plus other special customer-specific options.

Trailblazing: the BMW iX5 Hydrogen.

The BMW iX5 Hydrogen presented at IAA Mobility 2023 provides further evidence of the company’s superlative innovative strength in the field of drive technology. A pilot series of the Sports Activity Vehicle with hydrogen fuel-cell drive, developed on the basis of the current BMW X5, has entered service for demonstration and test purposes with various target groups around the world. This allows selected test groups who haven’t been involved in the development process to get behind the wheel of the BMW iX5 Hydrogen and gain a direct impression of its attributes for the first time.

The BMW iX5 Hydrogen is equipped with the latest, fifth generation of BMW eDrive technology. The highly integrated drive unit at the rear axle draws its energy from a high-performance battery with li-ion technology that was specially developed for the hydrogen fuel-cell vehicle and generates maximum output of 295 kW/401 hp. The electric motor also doubles as a generator that feeds energy back into the high-performance battery on the overrun or under braking.

The model’s two 700-bar tanks made from carbon-fibre-reinforced plastic (CFRP) together hold six kilograms of gaseous hydrogen and can be refilled in three to four minutes. A chemical reaction takes place in the fuel cell system between the hydrogen and oxygen from the air, through which the electric power for the electric motor is generated. The BMW iX5 Hydrogen achieves a range of 504 kilometres (313 miles) in the WLTP cycle without having to refill the tanks. The hydrogen-powered SAV completes the 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) sprint in under six seconds and goes on to reach a top speed in excess of 180 km/h (112 mph).

The BMW iX5 Hydrogen combines long-distance capabilities and short refuelling stops with zero tailpipe emissions and hallmark BMW driving dynamics. Its hydrogen fuel-cell technology has the potential – provided the necessary basic conditions are in place – to serve as an additional pillar in the BMW Group’s future powertrain portfolio. As part of its ongoing transformation, the BMW Group is following an approach that embraces all technologies when it comes to drive systems. The company is therefore readying itself for differing customer requirements, infrastructure standards and political and regulatory frameworks in the various regions of the world. This degree of flexibility puts the BMW Group in a position to react quickly to changing requirements in the markets in any situation and to present as many customers as possible with an appropriate model offering at all times.

BMW unveils a new generation of protection vehicles in the luxury saloon segment.
Utilising the design of the award-winning BMW 7 Series, the two new models blend an unrivalled protection concept with outstanding levels of ride comfort and spaciousness, advanced equipment features and the class-beating dynamic prowess for which the brand is renowned. As the world’s first ever protection saloon with an all-electric drive system, the BMW i7 Protection (electric power consumption combined in WLTP cycle: 30.0 kWh/100 km, provisional figure for the German market) is a genuine trailblazer. This model variant meets all the requirements of class VR9 protection without any limitations, as does the new combustion-engined BMW 7 Series Protection (fuel consumption combined in WLTP cycle: 18.1 mpg; CO₂ emissions: 355 g/km, provisional figures for the German market).

The new protection models offer at-risk individuals customised protection from attacks with firearms and explosives. They have been classified as offering class VR9 protection based on the internationally recognised official test criteria of Germany’s Vereinigung der Prüfstellen für Angriffshemmende Materialien und Konstruktionen (Association of Test Laboratories for Attack-Resistant Materials and Constructions – VPAM, for short). The certification is based, among other things, on the third edition of the guidelines for Bullet Resistant Vehicles (BRV 2009) with regard to ballistic resistance and the guidelines for Explosive Resistant Vehicles (ERV 2010) and PAS 300 with regard to blast resistance. The glass for the two models even meets the criteria for VPAM 10 classification, representing the highest level of protection for civilian protection vehicles. The armoured body of the new BMW 7 Series Protection can also be upgraded to offer VPAM 10 protection as an option.

The new BMW i7 Protection and new BMW 7 Series Protection will be built at BMW Group Plant Dingolfing in an elaborate “craft manufacturing” process. They are set to make their public debut at the IAA Mobility 2023 international motor show in Munich, with deliveries commencing in December 2023.

Innovative protection concept featuring unique BMW Protection Core.
The standout integrated protection concept of the new BMW i7 Protection and BMW 7 Series Protection was factored into the development of the new 7 Series range. With the new BMW Protection Core, the entire supporting structure for the protection saloon’s body is constructed from armour steel for the first time. The BMW Protection Core forms a self-supporting protective cell, which is then combined with protection-spec doors, armouring for the underbody and roof, and safety glass.

The special armouring for the roof and underbody has been designed to offer maximum protection against explosives in particular. The occupants are also protected from drone attacks with explosive charges and from fragments dispersed by hand grenades on detonation. The new BMW 7 Series Protection also features a self-sealing fuel tank as a standard. The tank’s casing automatically closes breaches made by the impact of a bullet and thus prevents loss of fuel.

Greater spaciousness, lower weight and sharper agility combined with uncompromising occupant protection.
The structural protection concept with BMW Protection Core gives the new BMW i7 Protection and new BMW 7 Series Protection major advantages in other respects as opposed to armouring a finished vehicle at a later date. When seen from the outside, they have a similar look and feel to a regular BMW 7 Series Saloon M Sport, and their discreet appearance represents an additional safety factor for people requiring protection. Thanks to the fully integrated protection concept with BMW Protection Core, the levels of room and seating comfort on board hardly differ from those found inside a conventional BMW 7 Series Saloon.

The optimised weight combines with the increase in body rigidity (another benefit of the BMW Protection Core) to deliver well-resolved handling and the dynamic responses expected of a BMW in dangerous situations. The unrivalled levels of agility shown by the two protection saloons translates into high steering precision, excellent cornering dynamics and outstanding figures for acceleration and top speed.

BMW i7 Protection: outstanding security, zero tailpipe emissions and no compromises.
The BMW i7 Protection brings the all-electric mobility experience to the protection vehicle segment for the first time. Its two electric motors – one at the front axle and one at the rear – together create an electric all-wheel-drive set-up and produce system output of up to 400 kW/544 hp and maximum system torque of 745 Nm (549 lb-ft).

The instantaneous power delivery, distribution of power to all four wheels and intelligent networking of all the powertrain and chassis systems guarantees exceptional traction, directional stability and dynamic prowess. The new BMW i7 Protection sprints to 62 mph from rest in 9.0 seconds, while top speed is electronically limited to 99 mph.

BMW 7 Series Protection: unwavering protection, superior dynamics.
In the petrol-engined version of the new protection saloon, a latest-generation 4.4-litre V8 unit generates maximum output of 390 kW/530 hp and peak torque of 750 Nm (553 lb-ft). Its BMW TwinPower Turbo technology includes an upgraded turbocharging system with electrically operated blow-off valve and indirect charge air cooling, along with a cross-bank exhaust manifold. In addition, the presence of 48V mild hybrid technology helps to optimise power delivery and efficiency.

The BMW xDrive intelligent all-wheel-drive system directs drive power to all four wheels as required. The new BMW 7 Series Protection accelerates from 0 to 62 mph in 6.6 seconds and goes on to reach a top speed of 130 mph.

Model-specific chassis technology for assured performance.
The new protection saloons come with chassis technology that has been modified and tuned specifically for these models and makes allowance for the additional weight resulting from their special protection features. This produces superbly assured performance in any situation. Thanks to a robust basic construction and the presence of sophisticated chassis systems, passengers in the rear compartment are also able to enjoy exceptional levels of ride comfort. The protection saloons also convince with precisely controllable handling, even when they are being driven hard, such as when escaping from an attack.

Unique in the segment: Integral Active Steering and 20-inch light-alloy wheels with exclusive PAX tyres.
The new BMW i7 Protection and new BMW 7 Series Protection are the first and only protection vehicles in their segments to be fitted with Integral Active Steering. This rear-wheel steering functionality not only reduces the cars’ turning circle when manoeuvring, it also increases precision and dynamic response through corners taken at speed. Another key attribute of Integral Active Steering – specified as standard here – is how it enhances driving comfort for rear-seat passengers.

Another standout offering in this segment are the 20-inch light-alloy wheels fitted as standard. As well as enhancing ride comfort, traction and directional stability, these also enable the use of a particularly powerful braking system. The specially developed PAX tyres supplied by Michelin in the dimensions 255-740 R510 are equipped with a runflat ring, which allows the car to continue its journey at up to 50 mph even in the event of a total loss of pressure.

Driver assistance systems with information and warning function.
The new BMW i7 Protection and new BMW 7 Series Protection are equipped with an extensive selection of driver assistance systems. The functionality of this tech is focused on supporting professional chauffeurs with information and warnings, but without actively intervening to control the vehicle. The highly advanced sensors developed for the new BMW 7 Series range and all of the cameras available for the luxury saloon are also fitted on the protection vehicles. These provide precise and detailed information on the area around the vehicle in all situations.

Extensive comfort-enhancing features with exclusive details.
In order to optimise visibility in low ambient temperatures, an electric heating function for both the windscreen and the front sections of the side windows comes as standard. Model-specific pre-heating is available as an option. An exclusive convenience feature also included as standard is motorised assistance for opening and closing the doors.

Another item available on the options list is a cool box integrated between the rear seats to ensure drinks are kept cold. The standard-fitted Bowers & Wilkins Diamond Surround Sound System, meanwhile, lays on a high-end audio experience.

Varied range of options for individualising the exterior and interior.
The integrated protection concept of the protection saloons and production at BMW Group Plant Dingolfing maximise the scope for customers to put their personal touch on the exterior and interior. The BMW crystal headlights Iconic Glow are offered as an option alongside the standard illuminated BMW kidney Iconic Glow and almost all of the body colours offered for the new BMW 7 Series range are available. Inside, customers will find multifunction seats, BMW Individual Merino leather upholstery, with seat heating and ventilation as standard. A massage function can be specified for all seats as an option. The range of optional seat and interior surfaces is also carried over from the richly varied options list for the new BMW 7 Series.

BMW iDrive with BMW Curved Display and integrated operation of model-specific security functions.
The new BMW i7 Protection and new BMW 7 Series Protection are equipped with the latest generation of BMW iDrive based on BMW Operating System 8.5 complete with the BMW Curved Display. The system is intuitive to use and operates in a way that will be familiar to BMW drivers. The special functions relevant to occupant protection are also operated via BMW iDrive. They can be activated and controlled in full using the touchscreen capability of the control display.

A camera-based additional interior mirror can be specified as an option. At the touch of a button, this shows the image feed from the Reversing Assist Camera in the control display. A standard-fitted intercom system allows the car’s occupants to communicate effectively with people on the outside without having to open doors or windows.

Effective protection measures for a variety of attack scenarios.
A wide range of standard and optional equipment available for the new BMW protection saloons provides occupants with custom-spec protection in various attack scenarios. The new BMW i7 Protection and new BMW 7 Series Protection can be tailored precisely, with custom options including a fresh-air supply system, a fire extinguishing system, flashing lights, radio transceivers and flag poles for use when the car is on official duty, plus other special customer-specific options.

ENDS

<sup>All figures relating to performance, fuel/electric power consumption and emissions are provisional.

All of the stated model variants, equipment features, technical data and fuel/electric power consumption and emissions figures relate to the offering in the German market. Dimensions and measurements refer to vehicles with basic configuration in Germany. These may vary depending on the items of optional equipment selected.

Official fuel consumption, CO2 emissions, electric power consumption and electric range figures were determined based on the prescribed measurement procedure in accordance with European Regulation (EC) 2007/715 in the version applicable. Where a range is shown, the WLTP figures take into account the impact of any optional extras.

Only official figures based on the WLTP procedure are available for new models that have been type tested since 01.01.2021. In addition, according to EU Regulation 2022/195, the NEDC values will no longer be included in the EC certificates of conformity as of 01.01.2023. Further information on the WLTP and NEDC measurement procedures can also be found at www.bmw.de/wltp.

Further information on official fuel consumption figures and specific CO2 emission values of new passenger cars is included in the following guideline: 'Leitfaden über den Kraftstoffverbrauch, die CO2-Emissionen und den Stromverbrauch neuer Personenkraftwagen' (Guide to the fuel economy, CO2 emissions and electric power consumption of new passenger cars), which can be obtained free of charge from all dealerships, from Deutsche Automobil Treuhand GmbH (DAT), Hellmuth-Hirth-Str. 1, 73760 Ostfildern-Scharnhausen and at https://www.dat.de/co2.</sup>

The BMW Group

With its four brands BMW, MINI, Rolls-Royce and BMW Motorrad, the BMW Group is the world’s leading premium manufacturer of automobiles and motorcycles and also provides premium financial and mobility services. The BMW Group production network comprises over 30 production sites worldwide; the company has a global sales network in more than 140 countries.

In 2022, the BMW Group sold nearly 2.4 million passenger vehicles and more than 202,000 motorcycles worldwide. The profit before tax in the financial year 2022 was € 23.5 billion on revenues amounting to € 142.6 billion. As of 31 December 2022, the BMW Group had a workforce of 149,475 employees.

The success of the BMW Group has always been based on long-term thinking and responsible action. The company set the course for the future at an early stage and consistently makes sustainability and efficient resource management central to its strategic direction, from the supply chain through production to the end of the use phase of all products.

www.bmwgroup.com

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/BMWGroup
Twitter: http://twitter.com/BMWGroup
YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/BMWGroupView
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bmwgroup
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/bmw-group/

Maintaining the company’s award-winning reputation across the industry in 2023, BMW Group UK and its latest models continued to make waves, scooping up numerous prestigious awards in June and July, with battery electric models garnering significant attention. BMW and MINI won six awards at the Auto Express New Car Awards, while BMW further distinguished itself by earning commendations at the Auto Trader New Car Awards and Autovista Group Residual Value Awards.

BMW Group UK takes home six awards at the Auto Express New Car Awards 2023

BMW Group UK proudly took home six awards from the Auto Express New Car Awards 2023, demonstrating its continued excellence across a variety of categories and reinforcing the breadth of its model portfolio. BMW secured five awards across numerous categories and MINI garnered an additional victory with the MINI Convertible.

The third-generation BMW X1, launched in the summer of 2022, led its class according to Auto Express by winning the Small Premium SUV of the Year award. With its distinctive design, increased interior space, premium ambience, and high-level standard specification.

Introduced in November 2021, the i4— the first fully-electric BMW Gran Coupé—continues to make an impression nearly two years post-launch, claiming the Premium Car of the Year award. Another of the BMW brand’s fully-electric models, the BMW iX, impressed judges with its luxurious and contemporary interior, earning the Best Large Company Car of the Year accolade.

The brand’s flagship model, the BMW i7, already boasting four major awards since its UK launch at the end of 2022, now adds Auto Express’ Luxury Car of the Year to its roster. Offering a cutting-edge digital experience with the BMW Theatre Screen and BMW Interaction Bar, the BMW i7 combines striking style with a luxurious interior to lead its segment.

The all-new BMW M2, which launched recently in the UK, received its first accolade in the UK at the Auto Express New Car Awards 2023, securing the Performance Car of the Year title. Building on its powerful predecessor, the latest M2 embodies the pure joy of driving by fusing classic high-performance sports car elements with cutting-edge technology.

Finally, the MINI Convertible emerged victorious in the Convertible of the Year category for the sixth time—a testament to the model's enduring appeal. Available in the UK with a high standard specification, and also offered as a BEV – a first for its kind.

Speaking at the awards, Steve Fowler, Editor-in-Chief at Auto Express said: "What a year for BMW - we've been blown away by the brilliance of its cars this year so it's no surprise that the brand walks away with five of our trophies. Every winner blends the efficiency, quality and usable technology that BMW has become known for, underpinned by the very best driving qualities - on any road, on any day and for any driver. The i4, i7 and iX prove that the company is really leading on electrification, while the X1 shows a clear understanding of the needs and priorities of today's SUV buyers. Then there's the M2 doing what, arguably, BMW is most famous for - putting a massive smile on the face of keen drivers.

"It's another win for the MINI - our favourite convertible car. Even as the current car nears the end of its life - with hugely exciting electric models waiting in the wings - we love its blend of driving dynamics, comfort and the all-important style that's so important with top-down motoring."

BMW iX3 boasts Best Premium Electric Car at the Auto Trader New Car Awards 2023

At the seventh annual Auto Trader New Car Awards in June, the BMW iX3 clinched the award for the Best Premium Electric Car. The awards are decided by over 220,000 UK car owners who completed an online survey sharing exactly what they think of their car, with their thoughts and opinions determining the final category winners.

Erin Baker, Auto Trader’s Editorial Director, said: “The iX3 is all the electric SUV anyone needs, with a plush interior, spirited performance and that legendary BMW ride and handling. One owner summed it up perfectly by saying: ‘The driving experience is second to none, it’s comfortable, fast, smooth and quiet. Love it.’ Huge congrats, BMW.”

BMW i4 shines in the Autovista Group Residual Value Awards

In June, the BMW i4 secured the Compact and Large Battery-Electric Vehicle (BEV) category at the inaugural Autovista Group Residual Value Awards. The awards, which assess data from 17 different European markets, recognise the models with superior value retention. Judges chose i4 as the winner of this category due to its strong performance across all major markets, with the model's success attributed to its sleek silhouette, enjoyable driving experience, strong family identity, internal space on par with the BMW 4 Series Gran Coupé and impressive range.

The Autovista24 team commended the i4's design, emphasising that it looks more like a conventional BMW than an exclusively battery-electric model, broadening its appeal to a wide range of drivers in both new and used car markets.

ENDS

The BMW Group

With its four brands BMW, MINI, Rolls-Royce and BMW Motorrad, the BMW Group is the world’s leading premium manufacturer of automobiles and motorcycles and also provides premium financial and mobility services. The BMW Group production network comprises over 30 production sites worldwide; the company has a global sales network in more than 140 countries.

In 2022, the BMW Group sold nearly 2.4 million passenger vehicles and more than 202,000 motorcycles worldwide. The profit before tax in the financial year 2022 was € 23.5 billion on revenues amounting to € 142.6 billion. As of 31 December 2022, the BMW Group had a workforce of 149,475 employees.

The success of the BMW Group has always been based on long-term thinking and responsible action. The company set the course for the future at an early stage and consistently makes sustainability and efficient resource management central to its strategic direction, from the supply chain through production to the end of the use phase of all products.

www.bmwgroup.com

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/BMWGroup
Twitter: http://twitter.com/BMWGroupYouTube: http://www.youtube.com/BMWGroupView
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bmwgroup
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/bmw-group/

For further information please contact:

Carolyn Paterson
BMW Senior Press Officer
Tel: 07815 372906
Email: Carolyn.Paterson@bmw.co.uk

Chris Overall
BMW Media Relations Manager
Tel: 07815 370 990
Email: Chris.Overall@bmw.co.uk

Christina Burnham-Hepe
General Manager, Communications
Tel: 07815 371 206
Email: Christina.Burnham-Hepe@bmw.co.uk

Graham Biggs
Corporate Communications Director
Tel: 07815 376 867
Email: Graham.Biggs@bmw.co.uk

Note: This press release is a 1:1 copy of the original issued by BMW headquarters in Germany. No adaptations have been made to cater for the UK market.

Producing the highest output ever for an all-electric car from the BMW Group, the BMW i7 M70 xDrive marks another milestone for BMW M GmbH in its electric mobility transformation. Following the launch of the BMW i4 M50 – BMW M GmbH’s best-selling model worldwide in 2022 – and the BMW iX M60, this is now the company’s third performance model to have an all-electric drive system. The success of electric propulsion among BMW M brand enthusiasts, the consistent expansion of the product offering and the repeated increases in drive system output clearly highlight the huge potential of electric tech to deliver performance that captures the imagination.

The new all-electric performance model from BMW M will make its global debut at the Auto Shanghai international motor show (18–27 April 2023) in China. It will be built at BMW Group Plant Dingolfing, together with all other model variants of the luxury sedan. As well as being the lead plant for luxury models, the production facility in Lower Bavaria is also home to the competence centre for electric drive system production, which manufactures both the electric motors and the high-voltage batteries for all variants of the BMW i7 on site. The worldwide launch of the BMW i7 M70 xDrive will start in the second half of 2023.

* when M Launch Control or the M Sport Boost function is activated.

The fifth-generation BMW eDrive technology installed in the BMW i7 is being constantly developed in order to further improve both power output and efficiency. This applies not only to the powertrain and power electronics, but also to the high-voltage battery and charging technology.

The BMW i7 M70 xDrive is equipped with highly integrated drive units at the front and rear axles, which bring together the electric motor, power electronics and transmission within a single, very compact housing. The two motors work according to the principle of an electrically excited synchronous motor. This type of design makes it possible to completely avoid the use of rare earth metals (required for magnetic components) in the manufacture of the rotor.

The most powerful BMW electric motor.

An M-specific configuration of the drive system enables the BMW i7 M70 xDrive’s rear-axle motor, in particular, to achieve unprecedented levels of power density. The drive unit has a six-phase design with a dual inverter. This forms the basis for a very substantial increase in peak output that remains on tap up to high speeds, endowing the BMW i7 M70 xDrive with the power delivery characteristic of M models. The motor’s power density of 2.41 kW/kg represents an increase of 25.5 per cent over the unit that drives the rear axle of the BMW i7 xDrive60 and means that the BMW i7 M70 xDrive is fitted with what is currently the company’s most powerful electric motor.

This new standard-setting figure can be attributed to a BMW Group-patented innovation developed under the umbrella of BMW EfficientDynamics, which uses six excitation windings in the motor’s stator instead of the customary three. The resulting “double excitation” compared with conventional units allows the electric motor to generate an extremely high output, despite its exceptionally light and compact design, and to maintain it continuously into the higher echelons of the speed range. This solution is also far superior to a drive configuration using two motors at the rear axle in terms of both power density and efficiency.

Developing maximum power with the M Sport Boost function and M Launch Control.

The motor powering the rear axle generates peak output of 360 kW/489 hp. Its precisely coordinated interaction with the 190 kW/258 hp motor at the front axle creates an electric all-wheel-drive set-up generating system torque of 1,015 Nm (748 lb-ft) in Sport mode and as much as 1,100 Nm (811 lb-ft) when M Launch Control or the M Sport Boost function is activated. The drive system in the BMW i7 M70 xDrive therefore offers outstanding pulling power. Capable of sprinting from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in an impressive 3.7 seconds, the BMW i7 M70 xDrive is the fastest purely electrically powered BMW model. Top speed is electronically limited to 250 km/h (155 mph). The performance characteristics of the drive system are also characterised by sustained power delivery, which ensures rapid speed increases even in higher speed ranges.

With the M Launch Control function, both drive and traction control are integrated into the engine control unit. This ensures the power generated by the electric motors is metered extremely precisely, allowing the drive system’s M-typical performance characteristics to be instantly converted into stunning acceleration without any loss of traction.

The M Sport Boost function is activated with the shift paddle on the left of the steering wheel and is visualised by Performance-specific graphics in the instrument cluster. At the same time, the standard BMW IconicSounds Electric by Hans Zimmer provides a fitting acoustic accompaniment by switching to a particularly exhilarating, M Performance-specific note.

The soundtrack’s character varies according to the vehicle setting selected, with a clearly perceptible acoustic distinction between the My Mode Personal and Sport. In Sport Mode, the spectrum of sound is particularly dominant and powerful. The drive sound composed specifically for fully electrically powered BMW M models therefore helps to give an even more intense experience of the performance characteristics.

Extremely dynamic performance, excellent long-distance capabilities.

The extremely dynamic performance of the BMW i7 M70 xDrive is allied to excellent long-distance capabilities. Credit here goes not just to the efficiency of the highly integrated drive units, but also a wealth of measures for reducing power consumption. These include adaptive recuperation of braking energy and the heat pump technology used in the integrated heating and cooling system for the cabin and powertrain. The BMW i7 M70 xDrive posts a combined electric power consumption of 23.8 – 20.8 kWh per 100 kilometres in the WLTP test cycle.

Another factor alongside this optimised efficiency is the high-voltage battery’s impressive energy density. Located in the vehicle’s underbody, the battery provides 101.7 kWh of usable energy. This gives the BMW i7 M70 xDrive a range of 488 – 560 kilometres (303 – 348 miles, WLTP cycle), making it eminently suitable for everyday use. The Combined Charging Unit features exceptionally advanced charging software designed for charging the high-voltage battery faster and more efficiently. The BMW i7 M70 xDrive is capable of AC charging at up to 22 kW as standard, while DC power can be taken on board at a rate of up to 195 kW. This means the range can be extended by as much as 170 kilometres (106 miles, WLTP) in just ten minutes during a mid-journey stop at a high-power charging station.

MAX RANGE operating mode: extra range at the push of a button.

The car’s range can be extended while on the move by activating a new drive system setting. The launch of the BMW i7 M70 xDrive marks the introduction of a MAX RANGE mode for the all-electric models in the new BMW 7 Series range. In this mode, drive power and top speed are carefully restricted and comfort functions scaled back, allowing range to be increased by some 15 to 25 per cent.

The MAX RANGE mode was mainly devised for situations where drivers are unable to recharge mid-journey as originally planned because, for example, the charging station they were heading for is out of service. Switching to the My Mode Efficient and activating the MAX RANGE setting extends the range by a comfortable margin for the journey to an alternative charging point for the high-voltage battery. To this end, the vehicle’s top speed is limited to 90 km/h (56 mph). At the same time, the climate control system for the cabin is deactivated and the rear window heating switches to a lower setting, while seat heating, seat ventilation and the steering wheel heating are all disabled too in MAX RANGE mode. A popup window appears in the control display indicating the resulting gain in range as a distance. The information display also blanks out the section of the speed gauge beyond 90 km/h (56 mph) and shows the extra range.

The MAX Range mode can be triggered using the control display’s touchscreen functionality, the Controller or voice commands to the BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant. It can also be deactivated by hard in-gear acceleration (kickdown), engaging the M Sport Boost function or switching windscreen ventilation to maximum.

Powertrain and chassis technology in an M-specific application.

In addition to the extreme power of the drive system, chassis technology tuned precisely to deliver M-specific performance characteristics contributes to a unique performance experience in the luxury segment.

The electric all-wheel drive, the steering, the dampers and the driving stability systems are each underpinned by the M-specific application of all control systems, ensuring superbly judged driving characteristics in all situations. The overall package of measures was fine-tuned during an exhaustive programme of testing and produces exceptionally sporty handling for a model in this class, accompanied by high comfort over long distances. Helped by the almost silent drive system, passengers in the rear seats, in particular, can enjoy sumptuous levels of comfort. On the other hand, when the driver is exploring their sportier side, the BMW i7 M70 xDrive unveils the blend of dynamism, agility and precision with which BMW M models are synonymous and which is without parallel in this class. The My Mode Sport activates powertrain and chassis settings that are all geared purely to dynamic performance for an exhilarating driving experience.

Standard specification for the BMW i7 M70 xDrive includes M‑specific adaptive two-axle air suspension with electronically controlled dampers and automatic self-levelling. M-specific air springs with reduced volume and an adapted rolling contour increase the number of vibrations on the front and rear axles by six in each case and provide a noticeably direct connection to the vehicle body. M-specific hydraulics are also used to optimise damper response.

An additional shear panel between the bulkhead and spring strut towers produces a substantial increase in body rigidity at the front end of the BMW i7 M70 xDrive. Also to be found on the standard equipment list are Integral Active Steering and the Executive Drive Pro chassis package including active roll stabilisation with Active Roll Comfort. As well as helping to increase comfort, these two systems – together with the stiffer body – hone the car’s handling dynamics. This translates into an appetite for corners, which are taken with sharp and precise turn-in characteristics.

The blue M Sport brakes with M logo fitted as standard come with large brake discs for increased stopping power. Brake callipers painted in black are available as part of the optional M Performance package. This is also the first time that sport tyres have been offered as an option for a purely electrically powered BMW 7 Series model. The standard 21-inch M light-alloy wheels on the new BMW i7 M70 xDrive feature an exclusive, aerodynamically optimised design with a Jet Black solid finish and high-gloss metal inserts.

Sporting presence, luxurious elegance, stylish individuality.

The superior performance of the BMW i7 M70 xDrive, which results from the most powerful drive system ever developed with BMW eDrive technology and from M-specific chassis technology, is authentically reflected in its confident design. Fronted by M-specific design features like the M exterior mirrors with distinctive twin-stalk design, the BMW kidney grille with M badging, bespoke inlays in the rear bumper and M logos on the front side panels, the BMW i7 M70 xDrive flies the flag for a new era of all-electric mobility in the luxury segment. At the same time, its extravagant appearance marks another milestone in the electrification of the BMW M brand.

The new top-of-the-range-model of the BMW 7 Series brings extra sporting potency and the expressive aura of a BMW M model to the captivating visual presence of the latest model generation. In combination with the luxurious elegance generated by the sedan´s proportions, this creates a stylish individuality that corresponds to the exclusive character of the BMW i7 M70 xDrive.

Like all members of the new BMW 7 Series model line-up, the BMW i7 M70 xDrive embodies the outstanding innovative power of the brand. Helping the car set new standards in the luxury segment – alongside its pioneering drive system technology and revolutionary design – is an array of innovative equipment features. Among the highlights also bringing a sense of progressive luxury to the range-topping model and enhancing the feeling of wellbeing over long journeys are the BMW Interaction Bar in the cockpit and the Executive Lounge with optimised reclining function in the rear. The unique BMW Theatre Screen and Bowers & Wilkins Surround Sound System with optional in-seat exciters turn the rear compartment into an exclusive personal cinema on wheels. Comfort and safety are elevated another notch by advanced systems for automated driving and parking. For example, the Parking Assistant and Manoeuvre Assistant can now also be controlled remotely using the My BMW App. This allows customers to enter and exit tight parking spaces with significantly greater ease.

Opening and closing the doors automatically using the My BMW App and BMW Digital Key Plus.

Since March 2023 it has been possible in some countries to open and close the optional automatic doors of the new BMW 7 Series individually from outside the car and at a distance of up to six metres using the My BMW App – by pressing the relevant buttons on the smartphone display. The BMW Digital Key Plus, a smartphone-based digital vehicle key, ensures that getting into and out of the new BMW i7 M70 xDrive is now even more comfortable. Making the difference here is an extended lock/unlock function for the automatic unlocking of the doors when approaching the car and the automatic locking process when walking away. It now also includes a contact-free opening and closing function for the driver’s door.

The driver’s dooropens automatically when the smartphone on which the BMW Digital Key Plus is installed comes within a certain distance of the car. After getting into the car, the driver can close the door again by pressing the brake pedal. Additionally, the BMW Digital Key Plus links up with the integrated collision protection functions for the automatic doors in order to stop the movement of the door if an obstacle is detected. The extended BMW Digital Key Plus is expected to be available from summer 2023 for all new BMW 7 Series cars fitted with automatic doors.

Distinctive front-end design signals superlative dynamism.

Exclusive accents and M-typical design elements reflecting the technical requirements of a car when driven with sporting commitment ensure that the BMW i7 M70 xDrive stands apart from the other models in the 7 Series model line-up with its exterior looks. Its distinctive aura signals the cars dynamism and highlights at first glance the performance potential of the most powerful electrically powered model in the BMW Group product range.

At the heart of the front-end design for the new flagship model is the new interpretation of the hallmark BMW twin circular headlights and kidney grille. The light functions are divided into two separate areas. The extremely slim strip of lights set higher up in the front end brings together the daytime driving lights, sidelights and turn indicators. Available as an option, the BMW crystal headlights Iconic Glow create a unique light effect. The low-beam and high-beam headlights are positioned in the dark lower units chiselled deep into the front apron.

An extra touch of exclusivity: illuminated BMW kidney Iconic Glow available for the first time together with the M Performance package.

The imposing presence of the front end gains additional visual impact with the contour lighting for the BMW kidney grille. On cars specified with the optional M Performance package, it combines with a grille surround in Black high-gloss for the first time on the BMW i7 M70 xDrive. This creates an unmistakable light signature, and the front end of the car is additionally showcased to impressive effect by the richly contrasting visual interplay between the brightly illuminated contouring and the dark shimmer of the grille surround.

Another eye-catching feature of the performance model’s front-end design is the surfacing above the BMW kidney grille. The indented sweep running down the centre of the bonnet extends to the upper edge of the BMW kidney grille, providing an eye-catching border for the BMW badge.

The BMW kidney grille – which sports an M logo, underlining the range-topping model’s dynamic character – is bordered by Black high-gloss surfaces, giving it even greater visual prominence. Large air guide elements painted in body colour jut out from the outer sections of the front apron, framing the black centre section, and steer the onrushing air to the air curtains positioned at the extreme left- and right-hand edges of the apron.

Flanks and rear with M-specific design features.

M-specific design features along the flanks and at the rear of the BMW i7 M70 xDrive clearly showcase the performance character of the top-of-the-range model variant. Eye-catching M side skirts, M logos with embellished borders on the front side panels, M High-gloss Shadowline trim and black M exterior mirrors with twin-stalk design add sporting flourishes.

A model-specific rear apron with diffuser insert rounds off the expressive appearance of this fully electric M Performance model. Cars specified with the optional M Performance package feature a black M rear spoiler, a black accent strip between the rear lights and an inlay – also in black – for the rear apron.

New variants of the BMW Individual two-tone paint finish.

A large selection of exterior paint shades is available for the BMW i7 M70 xDrive, including variants of striking matt-sheen Frozen paint finishes. Owners can add an extra layer of visual extravagance with BMW Individual two-tone paintwork, which can now include BMW Individual special paintwork colours. Available from the launch of the BMW i7 M70 xDrive is the combination of BMW Individual Liquid Copper metallic for the lower section of the body and Saphire Black metallic for the upper section. An exquisite, precisely drawn coach line separates the two colour zones from one another like a delicate signature.

In addition, the range of exterior colours offers customers extra scope for giving their car a bespoke look. For example, eight two-tone variants and well over 100 BMW Individual special paintwork colours allow them to find a variant that precisely matches their tastes and therefore brings a very personal touch to the appearance of their BMW i7 M70 xDrive. All BMW Individual special paintwork colours are applied in a separate manufacturing process, with a higher proportion of the work carried out by hand.

Sustainably produced Frozen paint finishes based on biomass.

The BMW Group is the first automotive manufacturer worldwide to use matt paints made from biomass instead of crude oil at its European plants. The Frozen paint finishes available for the BMW i7 M70 xDrive are produced using this innovative process. Renewable raw materials such as bio-waste or waste from sewage treatment plants, which can replace the organic components of paint, serve as the starting material for these “biomass balance” paints.

The biomass balance process does not involve changing the formulation of the product; instead, it is about procuring the raw materials from carefully calculated sustainable sources. In fact, these sustainable paints are chemically identical to equivalents using fossil raw materials and meet the same high quality standards that the BMW Group applies for all the materials it uses. The use of sustainable paints made with biowaste not only reduces consumption of fossil resources, but also avoids the CO₂ emissions associated with the production, transport and processing of crude oil.

Sporting aura and maximum interior individualisation.

Customers wishing to customise the ambience inside the BMW i7 M70 xDrive as well as the looks of the outside can do so in a variety of ways. The i7 M70 xDrive comes as standard with M-specific equipment details that accentuate its sporting flair and enhance its concentrated sense of driving pleasure. These include illuminated M door sills, M Merino leather trim in Black/Atlas Grey, an M leather steering wheel, M-specific content on the BMW Curved Display and an M driver’s footrest.

Among the items on the options list are the BMW Individual interior with and without exclusives in a total of nine color variants as well as the BMW Individual leather merino/wool-cashmere combination with exclusive features in two variants, which is also offered in Black/Dark Grey. As an option for the i7 M70 xDrive a Carbon Fibre M interior trim with Silver Threads, in conjunction with surfaces in Piano Black is offered.

BMW Individual Manufaktur produces bespoke one-off creations.

For the ultimate in customer focus, products made to measure and a razor-sharp eye for quality, BMW Individual Manufaktur should be your first port of call. The BMW Individual Manufaktur specialists develop and produce exclusive one-off creations with design and equipment details for the exterior and interior that precisely reflect the customer’s desires. These include bespoke upholstery options, e.g. in a bi-colour variant, embroidery on the head restraints, and customised door sill plates and interior trim elements.

Individual solutions conjured with creativity, precision and masterful craftsmanship produce designs that faithfully reflect the owner’s personal style. In order to ensure that the BMW Group’s standards of quality and safety are maintained, every component from BMW Individual Manufaktur is put through the same testing procedure as standard parts.

The BMW i7 M70 xDrive is one of the brand’s first models to feature the updated version of the control/operation system BMW iDrive with QuickSelect and BMW Operating System 8.5. In order to make selecting and operating numerous functions and digital services even more intuitive and comfortable, the latest generation of BMW iDrive offers a newly designed home screen and QuickSelect functionality. This brings an improved menu structure that takes its cues from consumer electronics devices. By showing the right information in the right place, the new BMW iDrive helps to deliver a focused, assured driving experience.

The BMW iDrive update also enables a broader offering of digital content for information and entertainment, shorter function update cycles, better information on charging points for electric vehicles and improved access to a host of specific online services. BMW iDrive with QuickSelect also teams up with the BMW Curved Display and BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant, and so focuses squarely on operation using the touchscreen and natural language.

BMW iDrive with QuickSelect is based on BMW Operating System 8.5, which is making its debut in a series-produced model. The BMW i7 M70 xDrive therefore not only represents a new dimension in driving pleasure with an all-electric drive system, it also ushers in the latest digital display and control/operation concept and infotainment.

Functions are shown on a single level and can be activated using rapid-access tech.

The new home screen displays the navigation system’s map view or other individually configurable graphics at all times. On the same level, function icons appearing in a vertical arrangement on the driver’s side of the user interface can be selected with a swipe of the finger. QuickSelect allows the associated functions to be accessed directly and without having to pass through a submenu. And once the relevant settings have been chosen, a quick tap on the home icon at the lower edge of the display is all it takes to return to the home screen.

The new menu structure makes activating functions and settings much faster and simpler. The on-board digital content – just like the hardware, in the form of the BMW Curved Display – is designed to enhance the driver focus for which BMW is renowned. BMW iDrive provides the right information in the right place and at the right time. To ensure intuitive operation while on the move, the graphical interface and menu structure feature a layout developed by BMW Group Design that is both consistent and characteristic of the brand.

M-specific content in the BMW Curved Display.

The emotionally engaging performance experience on board the new BMW i7 M70 xDrive is further enhanced by M-specific content in the BMW Curved Display. In key areas, the typography and presentation of graphics reflect those in the cockpit of high-performance models from BMW M GmbH. The numbers in the speed read-out on the information display appear in a platinum/silver colour. Plus, activating the M Sport Boost function triggers a typically M visual accompaniment.

The BMW iDrive with QuickSelect is underpinned by an upgraded version of BMW Operating System 8, as employed in current BMW models with the BMW Curved Display. BMW Operating System 8.5 uses the latest generation of the infotainment head unit, which takes care of graphics processing, among other things.

BMW Maps with new charging-optimised route guidance.

Other highlights of the new BMW iDrive include the extended functionality of the cloud-based navigation system BMW Maps. It now offers not only Augmented View on the information display behind the steering wheel, but also improved functions for even more precise charging-optimised route planning. This helps to make long journeys in the BMW i7 M70 xDrive particularly comfortable, efficient and swift.

Added to which, the services and apps already introduced in the new BMW 7 Series are also available with BMW Operating System 8.5. For example, the BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant and other voice-controlled assistants, BMW ConnectedDrive Upgrades, BMW Remote Software Upgrades, video streaming on the control display, smartphone integration via Apple CarPlay^® and Android Auto™, My Modes and the Personal eSIM can also be used in the BMW i7 M70 xDrive.

• Honoured marque BMW M GmbH celebrates 50th anniversary at 2022 Goodwood Festival of Speed
• Striking ‘Central Feature’ outside Goodwood House showcases iconic models from BMW M
• World premiere of the first-ever BMW M3 Touring, UK premiere of the all-new BMW M4 CSL
• BMW Group Classic joins the celebration with historic racing cars displayed on the Central Feature and participating in the Hillclimb
• First-ever BMW iX1 and BMW i7 on display at the Stable Yard
  iX M60, i4 M50, BMW i4 eDrive40 and iX3 available for test drives on Friday

All eyes will be on BMW M GmbH at the 2022 Goodwood Festival of Speed, as BMW’s legendary Motorsport division celebrates five decades of success. Festivalgoers will witness the world premiere of the first-ever BMW M3 Touring and the UK premiere of the new BMW M4 CSL, as both take to the hill throughout the world-famous four-day event. All this against the backdrop of a striking central feature sculpture on the lawn of Goodwood House, designed as a homage to 50 years of motorsport excellence as it showcases some of the most iconic models from BMW M. Elsewhere, visitors will be able to see – and in some cases, drive – the latest models from BMW’s exciting range, including the new BMW iX1, i7, i4 and iX M60.

For the first time in its history, the BMW M range will be complemented by a BMW M3 Touring which is a distillation of the technological prowess and know-how from the BMW M3 and M4 family, combined with the practicality of a five-door touring model. This latest BMW M model will be unveiled at BMW M at Trackside at 10:00 am (BST) on Thursday 23 June, alongside a high-performance M3 Touring with Performance Parts, and can then be seen on the Hillclimb in the ‘First Glance’ category every day of the Festival.

Alongside the M3 Touring and BMW M3 Touring MotoGP Safety Car on the hill will be the new BMW M4 CSL, celebrating its UK premiere. This ultimate, track-honed, two-seater coupe is defined by a 40hp power hike over the current BMW M4 Competition Coupé to 550hp, while meticulous weight-saving measures – including the use of carbon-fibre for the roof, bonnet and boot lid – achieve a 100kg reduction in overall weight (in standard specification in the German market). As a result, the new BMW M4 CSL has recorded the best-ever lap-time for a BMW road car at the Nürburgring’s Nordschleife circuit.

With BMW M GmbH as the honoured marque, the Central Feature in front of Goodwood House will present an eye-catching display of BMW M cars past, present and future. BMW UK will add its legendary BMW 3.0 CSL to the Central Feature, while BMW Group Classic is providing three further examples: the BMW M1 Procar from the late 1970s; a WTCC BMW 3 Series E90; the Le Mans winning 1999 BMW V12 LMR. The display is completed by the BMW M LMDh racecar, that will debut next year.

Besides providing historic BMW M cars for the Central Feature, BMW Group Classic will bring four additional famous race cars to Goodwood’s Hillclimb. Pedro Piquet (BRA), son of three-time F1 World Champion Nelson Piquet, will drive the world’s first turbo-charged F1 World Champion car, the 1983 Brabham BMW BT52.

Steve Soper (UK) will climb the hill in the BMW V12 LMR on Thursday. He is followed by Markus Flasch (CEO of BMW M GmbH, 2018-2021), who will be in the driver’s seat on Friday, Saturday and Sunday.

HRH Leopold Prince of Bavaria (GER) will drive the sharknose BMW 635CSi and Bruno Spengler (CAN) will drive his famous BMW Z4 GTR which features the Michel Vaillant Design from the 2015 Spa-Francorchamps 24h race.

For many, BMW M at Trackside will form the focal point for the long weekend’s celebrations. Crowned by an original BMW M1, the stand will host iconic models from BMW M’s illustrious past, from the legendary BMW M3 E30 to the revered BMW M3 CSL E46. They will take their place alongside a thrilling line-up of modern-day BMW M greats, from the ultimate 635hp BMW M5 CS and track-honed BMW M4 GT3 to the exclusive new BMW M850i Convertible and innovative electric BMW i4 M50. Visitors will be able to catch a glimpse of the future for BMW M, with the innovative BMW Concept XM, a vision of uncompromising high performance and extravagant luxury.

The Stable Yard – once again dedicated to BMW’s latest range of all-electric and electrified models – will offer the chance to see the stunning BMW i Vision Circular, a concept which illustrates the company’s determination to become the most sustainable manufacturer. Optimised for the circular economy and with the goal of achieving 100% recycled and recyclable material use, the BMW i Vision Circular offers a view of a compact yet luxurious fully-electric vehicle with a focus on sustainability for the year 2040.

BMW’s sustainability focus is equally apparent in the new BMW i7, on display in The Stable Yard following its recent unveiling. The latest version of the brand’s flagship saloon is set to redefine the luxury segment with new levels of electrification and digitalisation. Its state-of-the-art all-electric drivetrain is complemented by a blend of luxurious interior design and an astonishing entertainment experience, with the multi-sensory BMW iDrive and unique 31.3-inch 8K BMW Theatre Screen. These attributes are further displayed in the powerful new BMW M760e, a plug-in hybrid with 571hp that delivers scintillating performance yet achieves remarkable efficiency.

The recently revealed BMW iX1 will make its UK debut at Goodwood Festival of Speed, representing another first at the Stable Yard. The third-generation BMW X1 features a sharper design, across-the-board sustainability and cutting-edge digital innovations. Available for the first time with an all-electric drive system, the BMW iX1 xDrive30 is set to offer an electric driving range between 257 – 272 miles (WLTP, provisional figures).

These models will also be joined by the company’s technology flagship, the new BMW iX M60, a fully-electric Sports Activity Vehicle that combines emissions-free driving pleasure and sporting agility with lounge-style luxury and comfort. Powered by two BMW M eDrive electric motors to provide intelligent BMW xDrive all-wheel-drive capability, the BMW iX M60 can accelerate from 0-62 mph in a seamless 3.8 seconds, yet still achieve up to 348 miles (WLTP) of driving range on a single charge.

Members of the public will be able to experience the BMW iX M60’s searing performance for themselves during Friday’s ‘Electric Only’ Motor Circuit Test Drives, where they’ll also be able to take to the circuit behind the wheel of the new BMW i4, the brand’s first-ever fully-electric Gran Coupé, and the practical BMW iX3.

Frank van Meel, CEO of BMW M, said: “There can be no better place to celebrate our 50th anniversary than among our fans at this year’s Goodwood Festival of Speed, surrounded by the iconic cars that have cemented our position in motorsport history. But we’ll also spend our time at the world-famous event looking to the future, with a selection of exciting new models from our innovative electrified line-up, and the global premiere of the eagerly-anticipated first-ever BMW M3 Touring.”

The Goodwood Festival of Speed is being held over four days from 23-26 June 2022.

Ends

About BMW M GmbH
BMW’s Motorsport division was launched in May 1972. It soon became one of the world’s most successful racing departments and today BMW M GmbH delivers compelling driving experiences on the road, as well as on the racetrack.  In 2021, BMW M GmbH was the global market leader in the performance car and high-performance car segments for the third year running, delivering a total of 163,542 BMW M vehicles to customers worldwide. This year sees BMW M celebrate its 50th anniversary, with a number of exciting launches and celebrations planned throughout the year.

The BMW Group
With its four brands BMW, MINI, Rolls-Royce and BMW Motorrad, the BMW Group is the world’s leading premium manufacturer of automobiles and motorcycles and also provides premium financial and mobility services. The BMW Group production network comprises 31 production and assembly facilities in 15 countries; the company has a global sales network in more than 140 countries.

In 2021, the BMW Group sold over 2.5 million passenger vehicles and more than 194,000 motorcycles worldwide. The profit before tax in the financial year 2020 was € 5.222 billion on revenues amounting to € 98.990 billion. As of 31 December 2020, the BMW Group had a workforce of 120,726 employees.

The success of the BMW Group has always been based on long-term thinking and responsible action. The company set the course for the future at an early stage and consistently makes sustainability and efficient resource management central to its strategic direction, from the supply chain through production to the end of the use phase of all products.

www.bmwgroup.com
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/BMWGroup
Twitter: http://twitter.com/BMWGroup
YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/BMWGroupView
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bmwgroup
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/bmw-group/

For further information please contact:
Helen Wilson
Senior Press Officer
Tel: 07815 372 480
Email: Helen.Wilson@bmw.co.uk

Chris Overall
BMW Media Relations Manager
Tel: 07815 370 990
Email: Chris.Overall@bmw.co.uk

Emma Begley
General Manager, Communications
Tel: 07815 371 062
Email: Emma.Begley@bmw.co.uk

Graham Biggs
Corporate Communications Director
Tel: 07815 376 867
Email: Graham.Biggs@bmw.co.uk

• Striking styling incorporating BMW’s evolved design language
• Luxurious new interior design with innovative comfort features
• Cutting-edge digital experience with new BMW Theatre Screen and BMW Interaction Bar
• Automatic opening of front and rear doors available for the first time on 7 Series
• Flexible architecture delivers plug-in electrification to every model sold in the UK
• Launching with fully-electric BMW i7 xDrive60, with BMW 750e xDrive and BMW M760e xDrive plug-in hybrid models to follow in 2023
• Choice of Excellence and M Sport tim, offered exclusively in long-wheelbase form

With the new BMW 7 series, the latest generation of the brand’s flagship saloon, BMW is set to redefine the luxury segment with new levels of electrification, sustainability and digitalisation.

The new BMW 7 Series represents a significant step up from its renowned predecessor, with an innovative specification designed to deliver incredible driving pleasure, unsurpassed long-distance comfort and a cutting-edge digital experience.

Beneath a graceful exterior that fuses striking modern style with the practicality and imposing nature of a premium saloon, the new BMW 7 Series introduces an advanced drivetrain that – for the first time – brings plug-in electrification to every model sold in the UK.

Available exclusively in long-wheelbase form in either M Sport or Excellence specification, the new BMW 7 Series range comprises models from both the BMW i and BMW M brands. Launching later this year with the pure electric i7 xDrive60, the plug-in hybrid 750e xDrive and M760e xDrive are set to follow in spring 2023. The dedicated M Performance model will deliver 571hp, combining the searing performance characteristics of a BMW M model with efficiency-enhancing plug-in hybrid technology. BMW i7 M70 xDrive, the future flagship model, will follow later in 2023.

Naturally, the new BMW 7 Series complements its state-of-the-art drivetrain with a blend of luxurious interior design and an astonishing entertainment experience. Innovative features such as the unique 31.3-inch 8K BMW Theatre Screen, the multi-sensory vehicle experience BMW iDrive with the latest generation of BMW Operating System 8, plus the new BMW Curved Display and BMW Interaction Bar, highlight the progressive saloon’s character.

Like its predecessors, the new BMW 7 Series will be built at BMW Group Plant Dingolfing. Sustainability is a key consideration, with all electricity for the production of the new BMW 7 Series coming from renewable sources, while use of recycled and sustainable materials in the car has been significantly increased.

The new fully-electric BMW i7 xDrive60 is priced from £110,545 OTR, with the first UK deliveries expected to commence from December 2022.

Exterior design. A new dimension in presence, expressive power and exclusivity

The front of the new BMW 7 Series, with the combination of the illuminated BMW kidney grille and two-piece split headlight units, gives the brand’s flagship model a highly distinctive presence. The front-end design, developed specifically for BMW’s luxury models, enables clear differentiation from the brand’s other models.

The BMW i7 uses accents in BMW i Blue to advertise its segment-leading sustainability qualities. On all other variants except the BMW M760e xDrive, the exhaust tailpipes are integrated out of sight into the rear apron.

Familiar proportions with maximised comfort in the rear seats.

The new BMW 7 Series has grown by 130mm in length to 5,391mm, by 48mm in width to 1,950mm and by 51mm in height to 1,544mm. Its wheelbase is now 5mm longer at 3,215mm, which further enhances seating comfort in the rear. The headroom in the interior of the new BMW 7 Series has also been noticeably improved.

New front end focuses on the distinctive headlight signature; illuminated BMW kidney grille Iconic Glow and BMW crystal headlights Iconic Glow

At the front of the new BMW 7 Series, the brand’s hallmark twin circular headlights and BMW kidney grille have been newly interpreted. The light functions are divided into two separate areas, with the more prominent upper elements cut from exclusive crystal glass as an option. The new BMW 7 Series comes as standard with Adaptive LED Headlights including cornering light, plus matrix high beam and the BMW Selective Beam non-dazzling high beam assistant.

The extremely slim strip of lights set higher up in the front end brings together the daytime driving lights, sidelights and turn indicators. The optional BMW crystal headlights Iconic Glow create an all-new light effect unmatched by any other car. Here, crystals from Swarovski –arranged in L-shapes and each backlit by 14 LED units – perform the role of sidelights and daytime driving lights, with the crystals reflecting the light in a multitude of facets even when they are off. At night, 22 LED units light up the crystals from behind and team up with the kidney grille’s contour lighting to create an unmistakable light graphic. Two LED elements below the crystals provide the striking daytime driving light signature, integrate the turn indicator, and increase the sparkle of the crystals in each function and colour.

The BMW crystal headlights Iconic Glow also lay on a visually expressive Welcome and Goodbye Scenario. When the customer approaches their car, first the illuminated surround of the BMW kidney grille is activated (standard on Excellence and M Sport models), followed by the enhanced sparkle of the BMW crystal headlights. Then the standard-fit dynamic light carpet is revealed. LED lights integrated into the door sills project four graphics, one after the other, onto the ground just outside the doors of the new BMW 7 Series. This welcome display continues in the interior as part of a neatly composed choreography that enhances the luxury-infused digital experience.

Eye-catching rear end with precise contours

The slim and elegant LED rear light units extend well into the car’s flanks. The “L” shape familiar from many other BMW models is formed by an integrated chrome strip and the rear light bars positioned below it. The braking light and turn indicator light are generated by two slim strips below the main rear lights.

BMW i7 with subtle points to top-level sustainability

The all-electric BMW i7 features distinctive design accents to highlight its fully-electric status, with its kidney grille sporting the BMW i sub-brand logo. The horizontal bar in the lower air intake, the decorative elements in the side skirts and rear apron, and the surrounds of the BMW logo at the front and rear all come in BMW i Blue as standard.

BMW M760e xDrive model with high-impact visuals

The M-specific front apron of the BMW M760e xDrive includes a three-section lower air intake. The side intakes, like the low-beam and high-beam headlights, are set deep into the front apron, which ensures the visual focus is centred squarely on the daytime driving light units and the BMW kidney grille. The indented sweep running down the centre of the bonnet extends into the upper section of the bumper and frames the BMW logo. The side skirts and rear apron also have an M-specific design. The optional Chrome Line for the exterior includes chrome elements for the side skirts and the otherwise high-gloss Black surrounds for the side windows. Other features designed to enhance the sense of exclusive sportiness are 21-inch M light-alloy wheels, M logos on the front side panels and illuminated door sill cover strips bearing the M logo, while a discreet M rear spoiler in body colour can be added as an option.

Also available is the M Sport Pro package, which additionally brings 21-inch M aerodynamic wheels in a dark shade, BMW M High-gloss Shadow Line with extended features including the BMW kidney grille, a black M rear spoiler, an M Sport braking system with black-painted callipers, and seat belts with contrast stitching in the colours of BMW M GmbH.

The BMW M models’ kidney grilles will carry an M logo against a black background. Other features will include aerodynamically optimised M exterior mirrors, 21-inch M light-alloy wheels, the blue brake callipers included as part of the M Sport braking system and a model-specific trim element with M logo next to the air breathers. The BMW M760e xDrive will additionally come with two pairs of trapezoidal twin exhaust tailpipes integrated along with a diffuser into the rear apron.

Bold exterior colours, exclusive new BMW Individual two-tone paint finish

One non-metallic and nine metallic colour shades can be ordered for the paintwork of the new BMW 7 Series’ body. Also available are four BMW Individual paint finishes, with further BMW Individual paint finishes set to follow at a later stage. A new addition to the spectrum of colours for series-produced cars is a BMW Individual two-tone paint finish. Two colours are offered for the section of the body above the shoulderline, while five shades are available for the lower section. A precisely drawn coach line separates the two colours.

BMW 7 Series models in Excellence trim are fitted as standard with 19-inch light-alloy wheels, while M Sport models feature 20-inch light-alloy wheels as standard. A range of alternative design 19 – 21-inch light-alloys are available in the options programme. The BMW M760e xDrive will feature 21-inch M light-alloy wheels as standard. Original BMW M Performance Accessories range also contains 22-inch M light-alloy wheels.

Interior and equipment: Exceptional comfort with an innovative feel-good ambience

With the BMW Curved Display fully digital screen grouping, additional My Modes, the BMW Interaction Bar and the newly designed gear selector, the cockpit represents an invitation to enjoy concentrated driving pleasure. The lounge-like atmosphere in the second row of seats is elevated to extraordinary heights both by the extra spaciousness on offer and, most prominently, by innovations like the BMW Theatre Screen and upgraded comfort seats with optional reclining function.

Unmatched in-car entertainment with BMW Theatre Screen and Amazon Fire TV.

One of the main highlights of the equipment options available for the new BMW 7 Series is the BMW Theatre Screen with Amazon Fire TV built-in. This includes a 31.3" 8K touchscreen display with Bowers & Wilkins surround sound system with optional in-seat exciters, built-in touch screen remotes in the door panels (BMW Touch Command), and an automated rear shade system that closes when the BMW Theatre Screen is turned on.

Wide variety of content. The BMW Theatre Screen with Fire TV built-in lets passengers enjoy content up to 4K/UHD from popular apps (subscriptions may be required). Stream videos, play games, listen to music, get information, and watch downloaded programs – all while on the road.

All entertainment in one place. Fire TV brings together the content customers value most in one place by combining popular streaming originals, live sports, and news into a single experience that they can search, browse, and filter.

The BMW Theatre Screen spreads out horizontally across virtually the full width of the interior and extends down from the headliner to the front seat backrests. It folds into the ceiling to be out of the way when not in use, and can be moved closer or further from the rear passengers to put it within arm’s reach for touch controls or to manoeuvre it to the preferred viewing distance. Audio can be enjoyed through the vehicle’s Bowers & Wilkins speakers or by connecting up to two pairs of Bluetooth headphones with independent volume controls.

The BMW Theatre Screen is revealed to the accompaniment of a sound composition created exclusively for this purpose as part of the collaboration between the BMW Group and renowned film score composer and Academy Award winner Hans Zimmer. As the Theatre Screen moves into position, the sunblinds for the side windows, rear window and panoramic glass sunroof are closed and the ambient lighting in the rear compartment is dimmed. The sequence unfolds to a choreography developed with a sharp eye for detail, bringing all the functions and digital content together into an all-encompassing user experience.

Unique sound experience with 4D audio system and new BMW IconicSounds Electric

The optional Bowers & Wilkins Diamond Surround Sound System sets new standards in its segment not only with up to 36 speakers, of which four are integrated into the headliner, and amplifier output of 1,965 watts, but also in terms of sound quality. The advanced system also has a 4D audio function generated using exciters in the front and rear seat backrests. Their precise, magnetically controlled vibrations result in improved perception of bass frequencies.

The audio system fitted as standard in the new BMW 7 Series already delivers a high-class sound experience. The Bowers & Wilkins Surround Sound System features a seven-band equalizer and up to 18 speakers. Its amplifier output is 655 watts.

Whatever entertainment programme is being enjoyed, BMW i7 customers will be greeted by another unmistakeable sound experience in the form of BMW IconicSounds Electric. Pressing the Start/Stop button sparks an acoustic accompaniment that is again the result of the collaboration between the BMW Group and Hans Zimmer. If desired, a drive sound delivers authentic audio feedback to every movement of the accelerator. The character of the sound alters according to the vehicle setting chosen with the My Modes button.

Progressive cockpit design with BMW Curved Display and BMW Interaction Bar

Like the entertainment experience in the rear compartment, the driver-focused cockpit design in the new BMW 7 Series has been re-interpreted in a progressive style. Digitalisation enables the number of buttons, switches and controls in the cockpit to be significantly reduced. Standard specification includes an interior trim strip in Fine-wood Oak Mirror Finish trim for the instrument panel. This provides an elegant stage for the BMW Curved Display. The fully digital screen grouping consists of a 12.3-inch information display behind the steering wheel and a control display with a screen diagonal of 14.9 inches. Arranged beneath a shared glass surface, the displays are directed ergonomically towards the driver, making the already intuitive touch control even more straightforward.

The BMW Interaction Bar makes its debut as a new kind of control/operation and design element. This functional unit, which boasts a crystalline surface structure and visually interesting backlighting, extends from below the trim strip across the full width of the instrument panel and well into the door panel trim. It houses touch-sensitive control panels for adjusting the ventilation and climate control, activating the hazard warning lights and opening the glove compartment. The light design of the BMW Interaction Bar takes its cues from the colour world of the My Mode setting currently selected and can also be set as desired by the user.

The BMW Interaction Bar further evolves driver and vehicle interaction. It combines function control, ambient lighting and the ability to adjust its decorative appearance as desired into one fully integrated component. Entry into and exit from the car are accompanied by a welcome/goodbye production incorporating lights on the BMW Interaction Bar. And it also shows the driver and front passenger via the Safe Exit function when it is safe to get out. From the ambient lighting menu the driver can decide which events the BMW Interaction Bar reacts to with dynamic light animations, e.g. incoming phone calls. The BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant can also appear on the BMW Interaction Bar in an artistic glow.

New design for the steering wheel and gear selector

The newly designed steering wheel has two spokes and a flat-bottomed rim. Its control panels contain rocker switches and scroll wheels as well as buttons offering haptic feedback when pressed. In the BMW M and M Sport models, the optimised functionality of the wheel combines with a classical three-spoke design.

An exquisitely designed control panel on the centre console hosts the iDrive Controller, Start/Stop button, volume control for the audio system and buttons to control vehicle functions. Also positioned here are the My Modes buttons, which replace the Driving Experience Control switch, and the newly designed gear selector.

Interior surfaces and door trim imbued with modern elegance

Like the trim strip on the instrument panel, the surfaces of the centre console come in Fine-wood Oak Mirror Finish as standard. The options list includes Ash Grain Grey metallic open-pored matt fine-wood trim, the Carbon Fibre with Silver Threads variant and BMW Individual interior surfaces in Ash Flowing Grey open-pored fine wood. M Sport versions and BMW M models are also offered with Fineline Black fine-wood trim with metal effect and M Signature.

A digital control unit is integrated into the rear door trim. This 5.5-inch colour display with touchscreen functionality allows passengers to select their choice of entertainment programme, the image display and the volume when using the BMW Theatre Screen. Added to which, operating the audio system, climate control functions, seat adjustment settings, ambient lighting and rear sunblinds is all extremely user-friendly.

Multifunction seats as standard, Executive Lounge optionally available

The newly developed comfort seats that are standard in the new BMW 7 Series offer wider seat surfaces than the outgoing model, as well as extensive electric adjustment, seat heating and lumbar support for the driver and front passenger; these are adjustable via the door-mounted controls or the relevant menu in the iDrive control/operation system. The optional Front Comfort Pack further enhances the luxurious experience for front seat occupants, integrating active seat ventilation with optimised cooling and a massage function with nine programs which provides for a noticeably increased vitalising and relaxation effect. The optional Travel & Comfort System includes features such as a mount for attaching tablets.

Multifunction seats, active seat ventilation and a massage function are also available for the rear compartment.

The Executive Lounge option, which is offered as part of the Executive Pack, brings unbeatable seating comfort to the rear compartment. It includes a reclining function with integrated leg rest for the space behind the front passenger seat, plus an optional quilted and heated armrest with high-quality glass insert and integrated smartphone tray for inductive charging. Coordinated adjustment of the backrest angle and backrest upper section angle, forward/back position and seat surface tilt enables an extremely comfortable reclining position. A torso angle of 42.5° can be achieved between the seat surface and backrest, which sets the benchmark in this segment. Added to which, individually adjustable neck cushions and significantly increased headroom compared with the outgoing model also enhance travelling comfort.

Also unique is the design principle for the leg rest, which allows passengers to perfect a relaxed resting position. Here, the calf support fixed directly to the seat surface without a gap teams up with a heel rest extending out from the back of the front passenger seat.

Carefully coordinated interior appointments

The new BMW 7 Series comes as standard with BMW Individual Merino leather trim in Black, Mocha, Smoke White, Amarone or Tartufo with elaborate quilting, together with an anthracite-coloured headliner and multifunction seats.

As a no-cost option, the new BMW 7 Series is available with seat surfaces in the new Veganza material in a choice of four colours. The high-quality surface material with leather-like qualities stands out with its particularly pleasant feel and offers a high level of comfort. The seat surfaces are perforated and have prominent quilting in a diamond pattern.

New from BMW Individual: seat surfaces in leather/cashmere wool

The BMW Individual interior generates an exclusive yet also cosy atmosphere inside the new BMW 7 Series – especially when BMW Individual Merino leather/cashmere wool in the Smoke White/Atlas Grey combination is specified. The highly exclusive wool/textile surfaces bring a whole new haptic quality to the interior and combine sustainability with luxury.

The light-coloured leather in the upper section of the seats and the darker cashmere-rich cloth in the lower section, elaborate quilting and fine perforation create a unique impression – both visually and haptically. Their intricate, symmetrically embroidered pattern makes these seats a particularly eye-catching feature of the interior.

Four-zone automatic climate control fitted as standard

Standard equipment for the new BMW 7 Series includes four-zone automatic climate control with further developed control logic. In place of conventional air vents, the instrument panel incorporates slot-type outlets arranged along the full width of the BMW Interaction Bar. It is now also possible to adjust the temperature in the front seat footwells separately. The BMW i7 comes with a model-specific climate control unit featuring efficient heat pump technology.

Like the driver and front passenger, those in the second row of seats can also set the temperature in their area of the car to their personal preferences thanks to separate controls in the rear compartment. An additional solar sensor optimises temperature adjustment in the rear. The climate control unit also uses the seat heating and, if fitted, the seat ventilation function to match the interior temperature to the specifications of those on board.

Sky Lounge panoramic glass sunroof with new light effects

A panoramic glass sunroof is fitted as standard on the new BMW 7 Series. The roof now consists of a single fixed glass surface framed by a steel surround. The roof’s transparent surface is larger than that of any rival and also much longer than on the outgoing 7 Series. The sliding headliner of the panoramic glass sunroof is electrically operated.

The optionally available Sky Lounge panoramic glass sunroof delights those inside the car with a newly designed light show, which uses light threads backlit by LED units. The structure this creates replicates the pattern of the quilting on the seat surfaces. The glass construction consists of three highly functional and fully integrated individual sections of glass. A pattern within this construction emits the light and intensifies the feeling of acceleration when the car is moving. The colour world of the light effects, which are also part of the Welcome Scenario, takes its cues from the activated My Mode and can also be selected independently.

Automatic doors with unique control modules in the rear

Another comfort-enhancing feature of the new BMW 7 Series is the automatic door mechanism available as an option. To open or close the front and rear doors, all those on board need to do is touch the handles set flush into the body or the buttons in the BMW Interaction Bar at the front of the cabin or the rear door trim. The opening and closing sequence can also be activated using the radio-operated key. At a later stage this will additionally be possible via the My BMW App from outside the car and by voice command or using the iDrive control/operation system while on board. Visible and audible signals alert users that the automatic door system is activated. Other tech includes a helpful collision protection function when opening the doors – which utilises the data from 12 ultrasound sensors on either side of the car – and a sensitive obstruction alert when closing them.

The boot lid also has automatic opening and closing. It is activated by either the push of a button or the movement of a foot under the rear apron. The load capacity of the plug-in hybrid models is 525 litres, an increase of 105 litres on the previous generation model. The boot of the BMW i7 has 500 litres of load space.

BMW i7: pure luxury and dynamic performance with zero emissions

Driving pleasure, passenger comfort and a luxurious ambience without compromise – and with zero local emissions: the BMW i7 xDrive60 has it all. Its fifth-generation BMW eDrive technology comprises highly integrated drive units at the front and rear axles that bring together the electric motor, power electronics and transmission within a single, very compact housing, plus the accompanying charging technology and high-voltage battery.

Control of the adaptive recuperation function has been further refined in the BMW i7 to increase range. The efficiency with which power is taken on board the BMW i7 and the durability of its high-voltage battery both benefit from the latest advances in the field of charging technology. Compared with the BMW iX and BMW i4 models, the charging software has undergone further improvement, the temperature of the high-voltage battery is controlled more precisely and there is also an innovative facility for saving charging profiles. In addition to this, in the BMW i7 the BMW Maps navigation system displays the charging-optimised route more quickly and in even greater detail.

Electric motors with no rare-earth metals used in the rotor

The electric motors work according to the principle of an electrically excited synchronous motor, where it is a precisely controllable electrical feed that sets the rotor in motion, rather than using fixed permanent magnets. This means the use of rare-earth metals is avoided altogether in the manufacture of the rotor.

The virtually silent, instantaneous power delivery of the BMW i7 xDrive60, and the luxurious sense of driving comfort this instils, are further helped by improvements to the electric drive units’ acoustics, a model-specific mounting concept and newly developed noise encapsulation for the electric motors. The motor driving the rear wheels generates peak output of 313hp, while the unit at the front axle produces 258hp. The duo of drive units delivers a combined maximum output of 544hp and posts overall torque of 745Nm. All of which enables the new BMW i7 xDrive60 to power from 0 to 62mph in 4.7 seconds.

Underpinning the dynamic prowess of the BMW i7 xDrive60 are its electric all-wheel drive and its precisely tuned driving stability systems headlined by the near-actuator wheel slip limitation. The fully variable drive system is intelligently connected with the system of powertrain and chassis control functions, whose extremely quick and precise responses help to sustain thrilling forward momentum even in adverse road and weather conditions.

The extremely slim high-voltage battery with a cell height of just 110mm is located low down in the vehicle floor and provides 101.7 kWh of usable energy. The heat pump technology used in the integrated heating and cooling system for the cabin and drive system also helps boost efficiency, as does the adaptive or individually adjustable recuperation feature. The high-voltage battery is heated using a dedicated 5.5 kW electric flow heater.

Innovation: adaptive recuperation of an even higher standard

The adaptive recuperation feature familiar from the BMW iX and BMW i4 models has been further honed for the BMW i7 and is now also able to take downhill sections and information from the traffic-light recognition function into account. Adaptive recuperation generally allows the intensity of brake energy regeneration during overrun and braking to be automatically optimised for the road situation, as detected using data from the navigation system and the driver assistance systems’ sensors. When approaching a junction, for example, the level of recuperation can be increased – even if route guidance isn’t activated – thereby feeding energy back into the high-voltage battery while harnessing the deceleration effect at the same time. On the open road, meanwhile, the coasting function can take over, allowing the car to “freewheel” with no drive power whenever the driver eases off the accelerator. Energy is no longer supplied to the two electric motors in this state, meaning no battery power is consumed.

Innovation: more rounded charging curve thanks to new charging process

Once the high-voltage battery reaches a higher charge level, the new charging process aims to ensure the charging rate drops smoothly instead of following the previous “stepped” curve. This produces a more rounded charging curve overall, resulting in shorter charging times. Following an initial, temperature-dependent phase of constant power supply, the new process now also controls charging based on a continuous nominal voltage curve that allows for the variables of temperature, recharged capacity and charge level at start of charging.

The Combined Charging Unit in the BMW i7 xDrive60 allows AC charging at a rate of up to 11 kW, while DC power can be taken on board at a rate of up to 195 kW. This allows 106 miles (WLTP) of range to be added in just ten minutes at a high-power charging station.

Innovation: improved temperature control for long high-voltage battery life

Alternating phases of full and partial cooling power are used during fast charging of the BMW i7 to avoid excessive cooling of the battery. This prevents cell temperatures from dropping too low in the process, particularly at higher charge levels, thereby opening up potential for short charging times and reduced ageing of the high-voltage battery’s cells.

Innovation: automated charging profile settings

For the first time, the BMW i7 makes it possible to store customised charging settings for multiple individual charging points. These settings will then be automatically used the next time the car returns to a charging point stored in the car’s memory. In addition, preheating of the high-voltage battery can also now be started manually in the BMW i7 when approaching a high-power charging station without the navigation system’s route guidance function activated.

Besides the improved charging software on board the new BMW i7, the cloud-based BMW Maps navigation system also helps to further enhance its performance on long journeys. For instance, a charging-optimised route is calculated as soon as the destination has been entered, if the vehicle’s current range is not enough to reach the destination.

Two plug-in hybrid models due to join the range, flagship BMW i7 M70 xDrive arriving later in 2023

In early 2023, two plug-in hybrid drive systems will be launched. This is all made possible by fifth-generation BMW eDrive technology, which is featuring in luxury plug-in hybrid models for the first time. It is being deployed in both the new BMW 750e xDrive and a BMW M car, the BMW M760e xDrive.

The new plug-in hybrid models utilise an eight-speed Steptronic transmission that is making its global debut and is unique in this segment. A permanently excited synchronous motor with a nominal output of 200hp has been installed there together with the power electronics.

The new electric drive unit teams up with a six-cylinder in-line petrol engine and BMW xDrive intelligent all-wheel drive in both models. Thus equipped, the BMW M760e xDrive produces 571hp and peak torque of 800Nm. Meanwhile, the new BMW 750e xDrive posts figures of 490hp and 700Nm.

^{*All figures relating to performance, fuel and electricity consumption and emissions are provisional. All the stated technical data, fuel consumption and emissions figures relate to the offering in the German market. Dimensions and measurements refer to vehicles with basic configuration in Germany. These may vary depending on the wheel/tyre size and items of optional equipment selected.
**Electronically limited.}

The high-voltage batteries in the new plug-in hybrids can store 18.7 kWh of usable energy, an increase of more than 50 per cent compared with the preceding generation. At the same time, maximum charging capacity has climbed from 3.7 kW to 7.4 kW, enabling the high-voltage battery to be fully recharged from empty in less than three hours. When hooked up to a conventional domestic power socket, a full vehicle charge is completed in around nine hours. There has also been a notable increase in electric range, with drivers now able to enjoy over 50 miles of purely electric driving according to the WLTP cycle.

Additional all-electric variants are set to join the BMW 7 Series line-up, including the BMW i7 M70 xDrive flagship which is set to arrive later in 2023. With output expected to reach 660 hp (provisional figure), it will offer exceptionally sporty performance in the luxury segment. 

Advanced chassis technology: The perfect blend of sporting prowess and driving comfort

The increased body rigidity, larger wheels and broader tyres of the new BMW 7 Series combine with its wider tracks of 1,665mm at the front (+ 47mm) and 1,650mm at the rear (+ 4mm) to equip the car even more effectively to provide remarkable agility, precise steering and high lateral acceleration. The saloon’s double-wishbone front axle and five-link rear axle have also undergone an extensive upgrade. An elastic steering gear mounting has been fitted on the front axle subframe to improve acoustic properties. This is supplemented by a model-specific motor mount on the BMW i7. The new hydro mounts for the rear axle subframe (bi-directional on the BMW i7) also contribute to the vehicle’s enhanced ride comfort.

Adaptive two-axle air suspension with electronically controlled dampers as standard

BMW 7 Series 750e xDrive and i7 xDrive60 are fitted as standard with adaptive two-axle air suspension with automatic self-levelling as well as adaptive suspension with electronically controlled dampers. The suspension’s air supply is controlled individually for each wheel, making it possible to balance out an unevenly loaded car. This enables the adaptive two-axle air suspension to constantly maintain the optimum ride height at all speeds, resulting in comfortable, assured handling.

In addition to this, the system also allows the height of the body to be adjusted to suit the driving situation. The ride height automatically drops by 10mm in Sport Mode, while in all other My Modes the body is lowered in the same way once the speed passes 87mph or, in the BMW i7, 75 mph. The body can also be raised by 20mm at the touch of a button on rough roads, for example, or on steeply angled ramps on the way into garages.

The dampers are controlled electronically for each individual wheel, optimising ride comfort and handling, and respond adaptively both to road surface conditions and to driving style. The basic damper setting also varies depending on the selected My Mode.

Integral Active Steering gives the car greater poise and makes manoeuvring easier

The new BMW 7 Series is fitted as standard with a new version of the Electric Power Steering system, whose ratio now varies with the steering angle. Its functions also include Servotronic speed-sensitive power assistance. The various My Modes again offer a choice of two settings for either very sporty or more comfort-oriented steering response.

The optional Integral Active Steering makes even lighter work of manoeuvring, while enhancing agility and high-speed stability. To this end, the rear wheels are turned in either the same or the opposite direction to the front wheels – depending on road speed – by up to 3.5°. This has the effect of making its turning circle around 0.8 metres smaller.

Executive Drive Pro with improved roll stabilisation

The Executive Drive Pro option comprises an active roll-stabilisation feature which employs electric swivel motors to smooth out the lateral forces inducing body roll through dynamically taken corners. The system is powered by a 48V electric motor.

The active roll stabilisation also optimises comfort when driving in a straight line, by decoupling the fixed connection between each axle’s wheels provided by a conventional anti-roll bar.

As well as reducing rolling movements caused by bumps in the road on one side of the car, the Active Roll Comfort function making its debut in the new BMW 7 Series goes further still by adjusting the body height on the corresponding side of the vehicle at the same time.

BMW M and M Sport models have bespoke chassis technology

An M-specific version of the Executive Drive Pro system will be included as standard on the BMW M models in the new 7 Series range. M Sport brakes – with enhanced stopping power and blue-painted callipers bearing the M logo are another distinguishing feature.

As well as its tyre pressure indicator for each wheel, the new BMW 7 Series has a digital tyre condition monitoring system as standard. Unique in this segment, this function uses a cloud-based algorithm to detect pressure loss far sooner than the car’s Tyre Pressure Monitor can.

Integrated braking system optimises handling characteristics

The integrated braking system in the new BMW 7 Series delivers outstanding stopping power and excellent pedal feel. This system brings together the brake activation, brake booster, brake slip control and vehicle stabilisation functions within a compact module. The brake pressure is transmitted to the brake system’s hydraulics by an electric actuator, an operating principle that enhances the dynamics of the system and ensures significantly faster and more precise interventions by the DSC (Dynamic Stability Control).

Extremely quick and precise: near-actuator wheel slip limitation

The new BMW 7 Series now comes with near-actuator wheel slip limitation to maximise the car’s agility and poise. This traction control system is integrated into the engine management, eliminating the long signal paths to the DSC control unit. This allows corrective inputs to be applied up to ten times faster than in conventional systems and with exceptional precision.

Front-collision warning for improved safety

Comprising features such as Collision Warning, pedestrian and cyclist warning with braking function, and Crossroads Warning, the system now reacts to oncoming traffic too. Speed Limit Info with no-overtaking indicator and pre-warning, manual Speed Limit Assist and the Evasion Assistant are likewise all fitted as standard, as is Lane Departure Warning with active lane return, and Crossroads Warning.

Customised level of automated driving for added comfort and safety

The standard-fit Driving Assistant adds Lane Change Warning with active lane return, Rear Collision Prevention and rear crossing traffic warning including braking function, which reduces the danger of a collision when reversing towards roads that are difficult to see into.

Also new is the exit warning function, which provides a safety boost when the vehicle is stationary. If a vehicle or cyclist is approaching the new 7 Series at speed, meaning there’s a risk of collision on either side of the car if a door were to be opened, the occupants are alerted to the danger by an acoustic signal and either flashing LEDs in the mirror or the ambient lighting and BMW Interaction Bar. The doors are also prevented from opening automatically.

Combining Active Cruise Control with Stop&Go function and the Steering and Lane Control Assistant, the optional Driving Assistant Pro represents another step towards automated driving. The system is available at speeds of up to 112mph or 130mph for models with the optional Driving Assistant Pro, offered as part of the Technology Plus pack. The cruise control functions include automatic Speed Limit Assist, meaning the car’s speed is regulated not just by maintaining the desired safe distance from vehicles travelling in front, but also by observing speed restrictions along the route. Speed limits detected either by the Speed Limit Info system, or by looking ahead along the route using data from the navigation system, can automatically be adopted as the new set speed.

The Steering and Lane Control Assistant takes its cues from road markings and vehicles driving ahead and works with the driver to keep the car in the lane detected by the system.

Assisted View in the instrument cluster gives the driver an overview of the activated systems and their functionality. To this end, the central area of the cockpit display is reserved for a three-dimensional mock-up of the vehicle and its surroundings. Here, the driver can see an image of the cars, trucks and motorcycles detected by the cameras and sensors in the driver’s current lane, along with those in any adjacent lanes.

Simplifying manoeuvring: Parking Assistant Plus with Reversing Assistant as standard

Besides emitting visual and acoustic alerts, the standard Active Park Distance Control (PDC) offers the option of automatic brake inputs to help avoid collisions with obstacles to the sides and rear of the vehicle. A Reversing Assist Camera is also standard.

Parking Assistant Plus is standard, helping the driver to select and park in spaces either parallel or perpendicular to the road, while the Reversing Assistant offers automated reversing in confined spaces or situations where the driver’s view is impaired. Parking View, front and rear Panorama View and 3D View are also included, as is BMW Drive Recorder which uses the driver assistance systems’ cameras to record video images all around the vehicle. If the anti-theft recorder is triggered it will also activate the interior camera in the new BMW 7 Series. If this happens, the system relays a message to the customer’s smartphone.

For the ultimate in automated parking and manoeuvring, the Parking Assistant Professional and Manoeuvre Assistant are also available, with both functions able to memorise and store driver inputs.

BMW Curved Display: a fully digital setting with superb graphics

The BMW Curved Display in the new BMW 7 Series is formed by a 12.3-inch information display and a control display with a screen diagonal of 14.9 inches. The screens are housed together behind a glass surface that curves towards the driver so they merge into a single, fully digital, high-resolution unit.

Personalised driving experience with up to seven My Modes

The new My Modes can be chosen by voice command or via a button on the centre console. The new BMW 7 Series offers up to seven My Modes, depending on specification. Each activates specific settings for the powertrain and chassis, the style of the readouts on the BMW Curved Display and the interior lighting including BMW Interaction Bar. In the BMW i7, the drive sound changes to suit the selected My Mode. For the first time, the content on the BMW Head-Up Display also adapts when the My Modes Sport and Efficient are activated.

Unique in-car entertainment with BMW Theatre Screen and Amazon Fire TV.

The BMW Theatre Screen with Amazon Fire TV built-in includes a 31.3" 8K touchscreen display with Bowers & Wilkins surround sound system with optional in-seat audio exciters, built-in touch screen remotes in the door panels (BMW Touch Command), and an automated rear shade system that closes when the BMW Theatre Screen is turned on.

The BMW Theatre Screen with Fire TV built-in lets passengers enjoy content up to 4K/UHD from popular apps (subscriptions may be required). Stream videos, play games, listen to music, get information, and watch downloaded programs – all while on the road.

BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant with new skills

The BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant in the new BMW 7 Series comes with additional skills for enhanced interaction. Naturally formulated spoken instructions can also be used in the new BMW 7 Series to activate driver assistance systems, for instance, adjust the transparency of the Panorama glass roof Sky Lounge or open the doors (on models fitted with the automatic doors option). Plus, the Intelligent Personal Assistant now reacts to instructions from passengers in the rear for the first time.

Communicating with the voice assistant has been made even more interactive and dynamic thanks to its new ability to transform into some 20 different icons. In addition to this, the Intelligent Personal Assistant can now assume a more animated “Expressive” look when required, featuring a pair of eyes that brings it even more to life.

Innovation: BMW Maps navigation system with improved functions for charging-optimised route planning

Forming part of the standard BMW Live Cockpit Professional, the new-generation BMW Maps system enables very fast and dynamic route calculation based on precise real-time traffic data transmitted at short intervals, combined with forecasting models.

As soon as the destination has been entered in the BMW i7, a charging-optimised route will be calculated if the vehicle’s current range is not enough to reach the destination. Important additional information about the charging stops has been added in the route summary, such as the estimated charge level upon arrival, the recommended charging time and the target charge level for the onward journey. Live data is processed during the journey, allowing charging stations to be automatically added to the itinerary if any of the stations originally planned for charging stops no longer have any availability. The driver is also now offered alternative charging-optimised routes, where available. By default, the system is set to ensure that the vehicle reaches both the final destination and the charging stops with a charge level of at least 10 per cent. Drivers can adjust this spare charge setting if desired.

The new Augmented View function included as standard perfectly complements the navigation system’s instructions in crucial situations, enabling highly accurate guidance while driving. A live video stream from the driver’s perspective is shown on the information display behind the steering wheel and augmented by supplementary information. When dealing with confusing junctions, for instance, an animated directional arrow is integrated into the video image to help the driver take the correct turning for the planned route.

Telephony highlight for the rear

The new BMW 7 Series also allows passengers in the rear to use the integrated audio system for making phone calls. The Touch Command units in the rear doors enable them to both access their contacts and place or accept calls. The built-in head restraint speakers that are optionally available as part of the Bowers & Wilkins Diamond Surround Sound System ensure premium audio quality for hands-free phone calls. Calls can either be kept within the occupant’s personal audio zone or shared with the rest of the vehicle. The microphones filter out unwanted background noise, guaranteeing outstanding audio quality.

BMW Digital Key Plus is turning into a full-function vehicle key

Standard-fit BMW Digital Key Plus allows customers close to the vehicle to automatically lock and unlock their new BMW 7 Series with their Apple iPhone, by means of security-enhanced ultra-wideband (UWB) radio technology. There is no need even to remove the iPhone from their pocket as they approach the car or walk away. The BMW Digital Key Plus can be set up using the My BMW App. The car owner can also share it – and therefore access to the vehicle – with up to five other users.

Interior camera. Take a glance inside the car using the My BMW App

Customers are able to take pictures from the interior camera and have them sent to their smartphone using the remote functionality in the My BMW App. The interior camera is also activated along with the anti-theft recorder, which starts a recording of the interior the instant the vehicle’s anti-theft alarm system is triggered. This interior recording is sent directly to the owner’s smartphone via the My BMW app.

The interior camera can also be used by the car’s occupants to take snapshots when the vehicle is stationary, allowing them to capture special moments to share them with friends and family. Pictures can be transmitted by simply scanning a QR code in the control display with any smartphone connected to the car via WiFi.

BMW Charging. Included as standard

The key benefit of the BMW Charging offering for public charging stations is the attractive kilowatt hour tariffs for AC and DC charging throughout the UK and Europe. The high-power charging network run by the BMW Group’s joint venture IONITY also forms part of the BMW Charging network. Almost 16,000 charging points are included in the UK and Ireland, while the monthly fee for BMW Charging and IONITY is waived for the first 12 months for all retail customers.

BMW i7 models in the UK are supplied complete with a BMW Charging Card, a charging cable (mode 3) for use at public charging stations and the Flexible Fast Charger. As well as a third-generation BMW Wallbox, other home charging products are also available via BMW retailers. More information on BMW Charging can be found here: https://bmw-public-charging.com/web/bmw-gb/.

Carbon footprint for the new BMW i7

The carbon footprint for the new BMW i7 will be stated in a validation certificate endorsed by independent auditors by the time production starts in July 2022.

A particularly rigorous approach is taken to reducing the CO₂ emissions released during production of the fifth-generation BMW eDrive technology fitted in the new BMW i7. In the supply chain alone, utilising green electricity for battery cell production and making increased use of secondary raw materials cuts CO₂ emissions by around 20 per cent compared with a vehicle where these measures are not deployed.

Responsible raw materials production

The sustainability targets defined for all model variants in the new BMW 7 Series range also include the upstream production chains. The BMW Group has undertaken to create the most sustainable supply chain anywhere in the automotive industry. The focus points on the purchasing side are compliance with environmental and social standards, respect for human rights, conservation of natural resources and reduction of CO₂ emissions. Measures for optimising sustainability are therefore established in consultation with suppliers, such as using secondary raw materials and harnessing renewable energy.

Use of secondary materials and renewable raw materials

Among other sustainability goals set out by the BMW Group is the increased use of secondary raw materials in vehicle production. At present, vehicles are manufactured using nearly 30 per cent recycled and reused material on average. The new ‘secondary first’ approach is intended gradually to increase this figure to 50 per cent. In fact, the proportion of secondary aluminium used in manufacturing the castings for the models in the new 7 Series range is already up to as much as 50 per cent.

The cabin of the new BMW 7 Series features carefully selected materials combining top standards of quality with a high sustainability factor. The floor coverings in the new BMW 7 Series are made from a synthetic yarn – Econyl – that is produced from recycled nylon waste material. The source material for this includes fishing nets recovered from the sea along with worn flooring and residual waste from plastics manufacturing.

The substructure of the door panelling, the cowl panel cover, the bumper guides and the surround for the front grille, for example, are all made from up to 100 per cent reused plastic. Meanwhile, the fibres used for the surface material of both the headliner and the A-, B- and C-pillar trim originate entirely from recycled PET bottles. The cable ducts are manufactured using between 60 and 100 per cent recycled plastic.

Electricity from renewable resources for component and vehicle manufacture

CO₂ emissions from vehicle production have been lowered by over 70 per cent since 2006. All plants in the BMW Group’s international production network have been operating a net carbon-neutral policy since 2021. The electricity purchased for production of the new BMW 7 Series at BMW Group Plant Dingolfing is fully renewable.

The recycling rate at the Dingolfing plant exceeds 90 per cent, while the recovery rate is 99 per cent. As a result, BMW Group Plant Dingolfing produced a mere 580 grams or so of residual waste per manufactured vehicle in 2021. Over 40 per cent of the water needed is sourced from the plant’s own wells, reducing the burden on local drinking water reserves.

Starting in 2024, the new BMW 7 Series will also benefit from the switch to cast aluminium wheels manufactured entirely using green electricity. This will see the BMW Group take another step towards its target of establishing the most sustainable supply chain in the entire automotive industry.

Wheels have hitherto accounted for some five per cent of the CO₂ emissions produced in the supply chain. This figure will be more than halved by the switch to more sustainable production using green electricity.

Ends

^{All figures relating to performance, electricity and fuel consumption and emissions are provisional. All of the stated technical data, fuel consumption and emissions figures relate to the offering in the German market. Dimensions and measurements refer ta vehicles with basic configuration in Germany. These may vary depending on the wheel/tyre size and items of optional equipment selected.}

^{The fuel consumption, CO2 emissions, electric power consumption and electric range figures are determined according to the European Regulation (EC) 715/2007 in the version applicable. The figures refer to a vehicle with basic configuration in Germany and the range shown considers the different sizes of wheels/tyres and the range of optional equipment.}

^{All values were calculated based on the WLTP test cycle. WLTP values are taken as the basis for determining vehicle-related taxes or other duties based (at least inter olio) on CO, emissions as well as eligibility for any applicable vehicle-specific subsidies. Further information on the WLTP measurement procedures can also be found at www.bmw.de/wltp.}

^{Further information on official fuel consumption figures and specific CO2 emission values of new passenger cars is included in the following guideline: 'Leitfoden uber den Kroftstoffverbrouch, die CO2-Emissionen und den Stromverbrouch neuer Personenkroftwogen' (Guide to the fuel economy, CO2 emissions and electric power consumption of new passenger cars). which can be obtained free of charge from Deutsche Automobil Treuhond GmbH (DAT), Hellmuth-Hirth-St,. 1, 73760 Ostfildern-Schornhousen and at https://www.dot.de/co2.}

The BMW Group

With its four brands BMW, MINI, Rolls-Royce and BMW Motorrad, the BMW Group is the world’s leading premium manufacturer of automobiles and motorcycles and also provides premium financial and mobility services. The BMW Group production network comprises 31 production and assembly facilities in 15 countries; the company has a global sales network in more than 140 countries.

In 2021, the BMW Group sold over 2.5 million passenger vehicles and more than 194,000 motorcycles worldwide. The profit before tax in the financial year 2021 was € 16.1 billion on revenues amounting to € 111.2 billion. As of 31 December 2021, the BMW Group had a workforce of 118,909 employees.

The success of the BMW Group has always been based on long-term thinking and responsible action. The company set the course for the future at an early stage and consistently makes sustainability and efficient resource management central to its strategic direction, from the supply chain through production to the end of the use phase of all products.

www.bmwgroup.com
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/BMWGroup
Twitter: http://twitter.com/BMWGroup
YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/BMWGroupView
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bmwgroup
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/bmw-group/

Chris Overall
BMW Media Relations Manager
Tel: 07815 370 990
Email: Chris.Overall@bmw.co.uk

Emma Begley
General Manager, Communications
Tel: 07815 371 062
Email: Emma.Begley@bmw.co.uk

Graham Biggs
Corporate Communications Director
Tel: 07815 376 867
Email: Graham.Biggs@bmw.co.uk

Note: This press release is a 1:1 copy of the original issued by BMW headquarters in Germany. No adaptations have been made to cater for the UK market.

The BMW i7 (combined power consumption: 22.5 – 19.5 kWh/100 km according to WLTP; CO2 emissions: 0 g/km; forecast based on the vehicle’s development status to date) is being developed with the aim of combining hallmark driving pleasure with a level of comfort that is in a class of its own. One key factor here is the acoustic properties. The level of well-being in the interior of the purely electrically powered luxury sedan is largely determined by the degree to which disturbing noises can be kept away from the occupants. There are a variety of potential noise sources to be taken into account here, so near-production prototypes of the BMW i7 – and indeed all other model variants of the future BMW 7 Series – undergo an extensive programme as part of their acoustic testing.

At the Research and Innovation Centre (FIZ) in Munich, test and development engineers check the full range of the vehicle’s sound emissions and immissions. Motor and rolling noise are analysed in detail, as are the aeroacoustics and vibration comfort, in order to fully determine the acoustic properties of the new luxury sedans. This also includes precise alignment of acoustic pedestrian protection and the motor sound emitted in the interior of the BMW i7 – the latter having been developed as part of BMW IconicSounds Electric, a collaborative venture between the BMW Group and Hollywood film music composer Hans Zimmer.

The driver of the BMW i7 has a choice: characteristic silence or BMW IconicSounds Electric developed in collaboration with Hans Zimmer.

The acoustic test benches at the new branch of the BMW Group’s Research and Innovation Centre FIZ North are specially designed to meet the requirements of electromobility and enable all driving situations to be simulated realistically. Here, any irritating noises registered by development engineers during test drives on the road can be recreated and selectively eliminated. Roller dynamometers with a unique quiescent level and interchangeable surface coverings enable the measurement and validation of drive acoustics and tyre noise on all road surfaces that are relevant to day-to-day traffic anywhere in the world.

The BMW i7 aspires to redefine the high standards of the luxury segment – and this very much applies to acoustic comfort as well. Great importance was attached to noiseless power delivery of the electric motor. Contributing factors here include acoustic optimisation of the electric drive units, a model-specific mount concept and a newly developed noise encapsulation for the electric motors. Taken together, these measures enable the BMW i7 to achieve effective acoustic decoupling across a wide frequency range, thereby ensuring maximum acoustic comfort in the interior in all driving situations. As a result, the driver of the purely electrically powered luxury sedan always has the choice of enjoying either the characteristic silence of the motor or the emotionally powerful BMW IconicSounds Electric developed in collaboration with Hans Zimmer.

Increased body rigidity at the front end and tyres with a foam absorber on the inside for integrated noise insulation likewise help raise the acoustic and vibration comfort of the new luxury sedans to an outstanding level.

Acoustic testing on the climatic test bench and in the wind tunnel.

In order to be able to test the effectiveness of all measures under extreme climatic conditions too, the development engineers at FIZ North use an acoustic climate test bench specially designed for this purpose. Here, all globally relevant conditions can be simulated and a wide variety of noise sources can be analysed and optimised such as the acoustics of the air conditioning and ventilation system throughout the entire vehicle – in particular at very low or very high temperatures.

In the same way as the motor and tyre rolling acoustics, ambient noise can also be selectively reduced. For this purpose, the aeroacoustics of the BMW i7 are perfected in the acoustic wind tunnel. Clear-cut body surfaces, flush-integrated door handles, aerodynamically optimised exterior mirrors and an almost completely closed underbody not only contribute to the low air resistance of the luxury sedan, they also help create its excellent acoustics.

Innovative materials for optimised sound insulation.

In addition to the noise and vibrations emanating from the vehicle itself, it is primarily the noise sources from the outside that can impair the experience of comfort while driving. The new acoustic simulator at FIZ North enables the noise emitted in day-to-day traffic to be simulated under laboratory conditions – this includes the sounds made at road construction sites and by passing trucks, for example. Numerous loudspeakers are used to project these sounds onto the vehicle prototypes from all directions to test the effectiveness of the interior noise insulation.

Highly effective and also weight-optimised sound insulation is enabled by the use of innovative materials developed in conjunction with acoustic lightweight construction. One of the ways in which outstanding shielding of external and intrinsic noise is achieved is by means of sound absorbers incorporated in the pillar trim, seats, roof liner and rear shelf. Together with the comfort glazing, which prevents unwelcome noise from entering through the window panes, this adds the final touch of perfection to the customer experience. There are also fleece elements in the doors and on the sill and wheel arch trim which reduce rolling noise, thereby maximising the experience of comfort.

Intense testing of electromagnetic compatibility.

With their detailed analyses and precise optimisation, the development and test engineers seek to ensure that the new luxury sedans offer the best comfort experience ever realised in a BMW. This also includes an analysis of electromagnetic compatibility (EMC). In the so-called EMC absorber hall at the FIZ, prototypes of the new luxury sedans are exposed to powerful electromagnetic fields so as to test the susceptibility of their electrical systems to interference and see how they interact with the environment.

The test engineers are able to analyse the diagnostic results transmitted from the vehicle in real time via fibre optic cables. The test programme in the EMC absorber hall enables comprehensive protection of the entire vehicle, ensuring absolutely reliable functioning of the suspension control and assistance systems and interference-free reception of online data, telephone, radio, TV and navigation signals.


                                                   END

• The world’s first pure-electric luxury saloon undergoes final testing of drive and suspension systems at the BMW Group winter test centre in Arjeplog, Sweden
• Extreme conditions present the ideal environment to fine-tune the driving dynamics of the BMW i7
• Intensive test programme to take the BMW driving experience to a new high
• Lapland’s frozen lakes used to tailor the steering, Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) and the regulated interaction between friction brake and deceleration by means of energy recuperation 
• Pure-electric drivetrain performance evaluated in extreme sub-zero temperatures
• BMW i7 to launch in 2022

Ahead of next year’s launch of the BMW i7 – the world’s first all-electric luxury saloon – BMW is conducting winter testing of the forthcoming new model at the Polar Circle.

The BMW i7 is undergoing driving dynamics evaluation at the BMW Group winter test centre in Arjeplog, Sweden. Situated just a short distance from the Artic Circle, the environment of surrounding frozen surfaces and snow-covered roads present the perfect conditions for the manufacturer’s test engineers to fine-tune the performance of all drive and suspension systems.

The demanding test environment ensures that the BMW i7 will elevate the driving dynamics and comfort that are synonymous with the brand to a new high in the luxury class, yet all the while complementing optimum performance and refinement with zero local emissions.

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.

Amongst the extremely challenging winter conditions, Lapland’s frozen lakes with their low road friction coefficient provide the opportunity for meticulous development of the steering, Dynamic Stability Control system (DSC) and the accurately regulated interaction between friction brake and deceleration by means of energy recuperation. 

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.

With the BMW i7, the brand’s current model offensive in the luxury segment, plus its drive to introduce electrified vehicles in an increasing amount of vehicle sectors, is being continued in a particularly progressive way. 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. 

Ends

The BMW Group

With its four brands BMW, MINI, Rolls-Royce and BMW Motorrad, the BMW Group is the world’s leading premium manufacturer of automobiles and motorcycles and also provides premium financial and mobility services. The BMW Group production network comprises 31 production and assembly facilities in 15 countries; the company has a global sales network in more than 140 countries.

In 2020, the BMW Group sold over 2.3 million passenger vehicles and more than 169,000 motorcycles worldwide. The profit before tax in the financial year 2020 was € 5.222 billion on revenues amounting to € 98.990 billion. As of 31 December 2020, the BMW Group had a workforce of 120,726 employees.

The success of the BMW Group has always been based on long-term thinking and responsible action. The company set the course for the future at an early stage and consistently makes sustainability and efficient resource management central to its strategic direction, from the supply chain through production to the end of the use phase of all products.

www.bmwgroup.com

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/BMWGroup

Twitter: http://twitter.com/BMWGroup

YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/BMWGroupView

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bmwgroup

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/bmw-group/

For further information please contact:

Helen Wilson
Senior Press Officer, BMW & MINI Communications
Tel: 07815 372 480
Email: Helen.Wilson@bmw.co.uk

Chris Overall
BMW Media Relations Manager
Tel: 07815 370 990
Email: Chris.Overall@bmw.co.uk

Emma Begley
General Manager, Communications
Tel: 07815 371 062
Email: Emma.Begley@bmw.co.uk

Graham Biggs
Corporate Communications Director
Tel: 07815 376 867
Email: Graham.Biggs@bmw.co.uk