The BMW i7 M70 xDrive
The most powerful all-electric BMW model: BMW M is introducing an all-electric performance model to spearhead the new BMW 7 Series range.
The new BMW i7 M70 xDrive delivers the perfect combination of electric mobility and performance, resulting in a driving experience unique in the luxury segment. The range-topping model of the new BMW 7 Series line-up accelerates from 0-100km/h (62 mph) in 3.7 seconds, making it the fastest all-electric BMW model. Top speed is electronically limited to 250km/h (155 mph).
ALL-ELECTRIC BMW M PERFORMANCE IN THE LUXURY SEGMENT
The fifth-generation BMW eDrive technology installed in the BMW i7 is being constantly developed in order to further improve both power output and efficiency. This applies not only to the powertrain and power electronics, but also to the high voltage battery and charging technology.
The BMW i7 M70 xDrive is equipped with highly integrated drive units at the front and rear axles, which bring together the electric motor, power electronics and transmission within a single, very compact housing. The two motors work according to the principle of an electrically excited synchronous motor. This type of design makes it possible to completely avoid the use of rare earth metals (required for magnetic components) in the manufacture of the rotor.
THE MOST POWERFUL BMW ELECTRIC MOTOR
An M-specific configuration of the drive system enables the BMW i7 M70 xDrive’s rear-axle motor, in particular, to achieve unprecedented levels of power density. The drive unit has a six-phase design with a dual inverter. This forms the basis for a very substantial increase in peak output that remains on tap up to high speeds, endowing the BMW i7 M70 xDrive with the power delivery characteristic of M models. The motor’s power density of 2.41 kW/kg represents an increase of 25.5 per cent over the unit that drives the rear axle of the BMW i7 xDrive60 and means that the BMW i7 M70 xDrive is fitted with what is currently the company’s most powerful electric motor.
This new standard-setting figure can be attributed to a BMW Group-patented innovation developed under the umbrella of BMW EfficientDynamics, which uses six excitation windings in the motor’s stator instead of the customary three. The resulting “double excitation” compared with conventional units allows the electric motor to generate an extremely high output, despite its exceptionally light and compact design, and to maintain it continuously into the higher echelons of the speed range. This solution is also far superior to a drive configuration using two motors at the rear axle in terms of both power density and efficiency.
POWERTRAIN AND CHASSIS TECHNOLOGY IN AN M-SPECIFIC APPLICATION
In addition to the extreme power of the drive system, chassis technology tuned precisely to deliver M-specific performance characteristics contributes to a unique performance experience in the luxury segment.
The electric all-wheel drive, the steering, the dampers and the driving stability systems are each underpinned by the M-specific application of all control systems, ensuring superbly judged driving characteristics in all situations. The overall package of measures was fine-tuned during an exhaustive programme of testing and produces exceptionally sporty handling for a model in this class, accompanied by high comfort over long distances. Helped by the almost silent drive system, passengers in the rear seats, in particular, can enjoy sumptuous levels of comfort. On the other hand, when the driver is exploring their sportier side, the BMW i7 M70 xDrive unveils the blend of dynamism, agility and precision with which BMW M models are synonymous and which is without parallel in this class. The My Mode Sport activates powertrain and chassis settings that are all geared purely to dynamic performance for an exhilarating driving experience.
Standard specification for the BMW i7 M70 xDrive includes M-specific adaptive two-axle air suspension with electronically controlled dampers and automatic self-levelling. M-specific air springs with reduced volume and an adapted rolling contour increase the number of vibrations on the front and rear axles by six in each case and provide a noticeably direct connection to the vehicle body. M-specific hydraulics are also used to optimise damper response.
The blue M Sport brakes with M logo fitted as standard come with large brake discs for increased stopping power. Brake callipers painted in black are available as part of the optional M Performance package. This is also the first time that sport tyres have been offered as an option for a purely electrically powered BMW 7 Series model. The standard 21-inch M light-alloy wheels on the new BMW i7 M70 xDrive feature an exclusive, aerodynamically optimised design with a Jet Black solid finish and high-gloss metal inserts.
SPORTING PRESENCE, LUXURIOUS ELEGANCE, STYLISH INDIVIDUALITY
The superior performance of the BMW i7 M70 xDrive, which results from the most powerful drive system ever developed with BMW eDrive technology and from M-specific chassis technology, is authentically reflected in its confident design. Fronted by M-specific design features like the M exterior mirrors with distinctive twin-stalk design, the BMW kidney grille with M badging, bespoke inlays in the rear bumper and M logos on the front side panels, the BMW i7 M70 xDrive flies the flag for a new era of all-electric mobility in the luxury segment. At the same time, its extravagant appearance marks another milestone in the electrification of the BMW M brand.
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Lincolnshire Life Magazine Newsletter 05/24 - mailchi.mp/lincolnshirelife.co.uk/lincolnshire-life-magazine-newsletter-05-2024
