The future is electric.
BMW has been deep in testing for the next-generation 7 Series sedan. This is especially true for electrified models. This Carspotter Jeroen video captures two prototypes gliding around the Nurburgring. Although the video claims these are hybrid models we believe at least one of them is the all-electric . Although we have seen 7 Series prototypes at Green Hell quite often, i7 sightings remain rare. We last One was seen in February 2021
Now, we have a prototype that clearly has electric vehicle labels on its trunk and doors. Also, all i7 prototypes have an “E” suffix on the number plates. This could make it easy to identify these camouflaged models moving forward. This and the absence of exhaust tips are also evident on plug-in hybrid models, but we haven’t seen any visible tips in the rear.
Unfortunately, little has changed in the i7 prototype’s visual appearance since February. The i7 prototype’s front features placeholder headlights that look similar to the 8 Series. The i7’s nose is camouflaged differently to the most recent 7 Series sightings. There are heavier covers that hide all details, and the taillights still look like placeholders. The i7 will likely have a different look than its internal-combustion sibling. Rumours suggest that the EV luxury sedan could be able to boast as much as 650 horsepower (or 485 kilowatts).
The prototype we see here is a 7 Series, but it could also be electrified as an electric hybrid. Although the camouflage design is identical to that of the i7, this prototype doesn’t have electric vehicle branding and its number plate ends with an E. It passes the camera just as silently as the i7 so we suspect that the electric-only operation is being used here. Or, the 7 Series hybrid has a seriously silent exhaust system.
All 7 Series variants will receive a significant technology upgrade over the current model. There were several cameras visible on the prototypes, which suggests that a Level 3 autonomous system is possible. We expect a glass cockpit with digital screens, similar to the i4 Gran Coupe. However, we have spy photos of the 7 Series interior. It’s still early so expect some changes before production models arrive.
That said, it is unlikely that this will happen in the near future. As a 2023 model, we don’t anticipate a 7 Series or the i7 debut before next year.