BMW's flagship sedan, the new generation of the BMW 7 Series, is unveiled, a complete replacement after seven years since the launch of the G11 7 series in 2015, designed to provide a future-proof mobile experience.
BMW will once again compete with the Mercedes-Benz S-Class with a variety of cutting-edge technologies. In addition, with the simultaneous launch of the new 7 Series and the pure electric i7, direct competition with the EQS is inevitable. In this article, we've looked at technologies unique to the All-New Generation 7 Series that wouldn't be found in the S-Class.
【1】High Performance M is now PHEV!
The biggest change in the new Generation 7 Series is the powertrain. In addition to the i7, a pure electric vehicle, it is also equipped with a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) powertrain for the first time as a high-performance M brand.
The most powerful PHEV is the top-of-the-line model M760e xDrive. It combines an in-line 6-cylinder gasoline engine with a 200 hp electric motor, and the system has a maximum output of 571 hp and a combined torque of 81.0 kg.m. It is the most powerful performance in BMW's PHEV series.
The 48V Mild Hybrid system is standard in other combustion engine series. With this, the 760i xDrive based on the V8 engine and the 740i and 735i based on the new in-line 6-cylinder engine are in preparation, and the 740d xDrive with diesel engine is also about to be released.
The i7 also exhibits performance comparable to that of an internal combustion engine. The i7 xDrive60 uses two electric motors based on the 5th generation eDrive system with a maximum output of 544 hp and a maximum range of 625 km (based on WLTP). The future release of the top model i7 M70 xDrive, is expected to show more performance than the M760Li, which has the most powerful performance of the previous generation, such as a maximum output of more than 600 horsepower, a maximum torque of 100 kg.m or more.
Devices that enhance driving performance have also attracted attention. Adaptive air suspension with a dual-axle construction that allows active damping force adjustment based on driving conditions, and the xDrive specification also provides an integrated active steering system that controls rear wheel steering. The i7 also adds an electric all-wheel drive system with actuator wheel slip limiter (ARB).
[2] The Mercedes-Benz S-Class supports up to four displays, while the 7 Series has one more and five more.
The new generation of the 7 Series, placed in the front row a curved display consisting of a 12.3-inch information display and a 14.9-inch central control display. New augmented reality features for greater driving convenience and built-in BMW 8 OS, which offers a variety of personalization options and intuitive vehicle control.
The 31.3-inch panoramic display BMW Cinema Screen was used for the first time in the rear seats. This is a screen that scales down from the ceiling, offering resolutions up to 8K based on a 32:9 screen. With it, you can enjoy not only a variety of videos based on your storage device, but also a variety of entertainment including YouTube streaming using 5G connectivity technology.
A 5.5-inch display has also been added to the second row of door handles. It replaces the various buttons located on the armrests of the second row, through which it can control media functions such as cinema screens, as well as various internal systems such as operating seats, blinds, lighting and temperature control.
[3] Unique lighting system
The new 7 Series offers a unique lighting feel. The BMW Iconic Glow, available as an option, is a case in point. In two separate headlight units, the upper lamp has a built-in "L" shaped Swarovski crystal, which exudes a mysterious charm when the running lights and turn signals are activated during the day.
Add a unique impression by adding lighting to the kidney-shaped grille. The previous duo-kidney type illumination was used to illuminate the entire grid, but the new system has been changed to illuminate the outline of the grid. A dynamic light carpet with projection provides passengers with a luxurious boarding and disembarking experience.
Even inside the car, lighting adds to the uniqueness of the limousine. Create a unique impression through the dashboard's interaction bar by illuminating the trim that passes through the doors and central dashboard. And that's something that the Mercedes-Benz S-Class doesn't have.