BMW might have ruled out building a 9-Series saloon that would sit atop the 7-Series in its lineup, but its ‘i’ range could grow with the launch of a full-size electric sedan tentatively dubbed the i7.
BMW Blog, citing unnamed sources, alleges that the i7 will be the company’s electric alternative to the 7-Series. If true, this means the vehicle would directly rival the upcoming Mercedes-Benz EQS, the electric sibling of the next-generation S-Class.
Few details about the vehicle are known, but if it is indeed similar in size to the 7-Series, BMW would have more than enough room to outfit it with a large battery pack and a powerful dual electric motor system. The automaker is apparently aiming for a WLTP range of at least 384 miles (600 km) and will make good use of its expertise in electric powertrains gained from racing in Formula E.
Like the ICE-powered BMW 7-Series, the i7 should be made available in a multitude of guises with varying levels of power, different ranges, and bespoke trim levels.
Current reports assert that the vehicle could be launched as early as 2022, but this seems a bit too early. BMW’s next i model will be the advanced iNEXT crossover, which we’ve known about for well over a year, has already started testing and its production will commence in 2021.
Additionally, an i4 sedan is also in the works. To launch an i7 in 2022, BMW would have to already be quite progressed with its development, and unless it’s creating the car in absolute secrecy, we’re not sure this is the case.
To find out for sure, we’ve contacted BMW. However, as is usually the norm, they replied that they do not comment on rumor and speculation.
Note: BMW 7-Series pictured.