They should both debut next year.
Future BMW EVs will come in a variety flavors with different outputs, ranges and powertrain configurations. The 5 and 7 Series models, as well as the i5/i7, will be available in all-electric versions. However, details are still sketchy. The Auto Motor Sport has released a new report that sheds some light on the new models. It suggests that both will be available with a three-motor configuration capable of producing up to 750 horsepower (or 559 kilowatts).
The report states that the top-tier i7 will have two electric motors at the rear and one at the front. This powertrain configuration could be easily integrated into an i5 to make it an i5M variant. According to the report, the larger i7 could support 120 kilowatt hours of battery capacity. The brand’s CLAR platform will be used to transport the next-generation 5 Series. This will enable it to accept the all-electric powertrain of the i5.
Both sedans were captured in spy shots while being tested, but BMW has covered them with thick camouflaged and clad. Although they don’t appear to be groundbreaking in design, we can expect them to share the same corporate design language as the iX or i4. Both the i5 & i7 will be packed with the most recent technology like BMW’s iDrive 8 system.
Previous rumors claimed that the top-tier model of the i7 might have 650 horsepower (484 kW). However BMW still hasn’t confirmed this and it won’t be until the model debuts next year. It is unclear whether it will arrive prior to the i5, which is expected in the second half next year. BMW’s electric vehicle rollout isn’t slowing down. Recent rumors suggested that the next-gen 3 Series would receive a dedicated electric platform, which would be available for 2025. Keep watching.