The next-generation BMW 7 Series is on the way and based on a report from Germany, the most powerful variant won’t wear an M badge. According to AutoBild, the all-electric i7 could have the most potent powertrain in the lineup, sporting 650 hp. That would be the highest output version of the car, which should be backed by a large 120-kWh lithium-ion battery.
In terms of range, AutoBild notes that the BMW i7 will be able to travel at least 700 km or 435 miles on a single charge. We’re suspecting that’s on the WLTP cycle, which is a little more optimistic than the EPA cycle. Whenever the i7 arrives in the U.S., it’ll likely be rated lower than in Europe due to the EPA’s conservative testing and range calculations. Smaller battery options should also be offered on the i7 but it’ll likely have less range and power.
Although the next-generation BMW 7 Series will be offered with conventional gas engines, expect a full range of electrified powertrains to be on the menu. The all-electric i7 is just one of them. As before, BMW will bring the plug-in hybrid system back featuring the same 3.0-liter turbo I6-based unit found in the current 745e xDrive and the X5 xDrive45e. Conventional models like the 740i and 750i could get a 48-volt mild hybrid system to give them some form of electrification.
