New generation BMW 7 Series revealed

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. The new model will reach the market in October and has official presentation scheduled for the Frankfurt Motor Show. The 7 Series comes equipped with the latest technologies developed by BMW, ranging from the chassis, engine and also equipment.

While maintaining a very similar design, one of the great differences of the new 7 Series compared to the previous generation is the weight. BMW's engineers have managed to cut the weight of its predecessor by 130kg thanks to the use of new construction techniques that allow a more extensive use of carbonfiber.

Design

In terms of design, differences are found for example in the  more raked rear window and a more sloping bootlid, giving the vehicle a more elegant profile. The grille area was increased and includes flaps that open and close, as required, to increase ventilation in the engine bay. It also receives the largest LED headlights a more structured bumpers with integrated LED fog lamps, plus a more contoured bonnet.

In terms of dimensions the new 7 Series is 19mm longer and 7mm taller than its predecessor in the short version, with 5098mm long, 1902 wide and 1478mm high. In the long variant, the model is 18mm longer than the version it replaces, with 5238mm. The wheelbase of both variants remained unchanged at 3070mm and 3210mm, respectively. However, the front axle is 7mm wider at 1618mm and the rear axle is narrower at 1646mm.

Inside the Series 7 also gets a design evolution compared to the previous generation of the model with a new instrument panel and new trim. The new digital instrument panel graphics, that change color depending on the driving mode, the new multifunction steering wheel and front seats with massage and ventilation functions are among the highlights.

Another of the big news is the emergence of the fifth generation of the iDrive system that lets you use the touch screen on the central console in a very similar way as a smartphone or tablet. As an option there is also the possibility of installing a system that allows you to control some functions through gestures.

Engines

The range of the new 7 Series will include three engines and even a hybrid plug-in version. The most popular model should be the six-cylinder diesel 730d with 265hp and 620nm of torque. With a top speed of 250km/h and an acceleration from 0 to 100km/h in 6.1 seconds, the vehicle still has an average fuel consumption of 4.5l/100km with CO2 emissions of 124g/km. This engine will also be available with the xDrive all-wheel drive system.

The base engine in the petrol range is the six-cylinder 740i, with 326hp and 450Nm torque. The vehicle accelerates from 0 to 100km/h in 5.5 seconds and reaches a top speed of 250km/h. The combined consumption stands at 6.6l/100km and CO2 emissions at 154g/km.

At launch the top version version is the 750i xDrive, equipped with a 450hp V8 engine with 650Nm of torque. This version can reach 100km/h in just 4.4 seconds and reach a top speed of 250km/h. In this case the average consumption stands at 8.1l/100km with CO2 emissions set at 189g/km.

For 2016 it is expected the launch of a plug-in hybrid version of the new 7 Series: the 740e, which will also be available in the 740Le and 740Le xDrive variants. Like it already happens with the X5 xDrive40e, this version combines a turbocharged 2.0-liter engine with an electric motor having a combined output of 326hp. Thanks to this hybrid system the vehicle consumes only 2.1 liters of petrol per 100km and CO2 emissions are referred at 49g/km.

Innovative car technology

BMW is presenting a world premiere with the new 7 Series, an autonomous parking system for the vehicle. The Remote Control Parking is activated by a button and uses a stereo camera mounted on the windshield and radar sensors to perform the maneuvers without the help of the driver.