BMW 7 Series Lineup Expands With Plug-in Hybrid Variants

BMW has officially introduced the plug-in hybrid variants for its flagship sedan.

Borrowing technology from its i sub-brand, the BMW eDrive drive system technology is heading to the 7 Series in three forms: BMW 740e iPerformance, long-wheelbase BMW 740Le iPerformance and BMW 740Le xDrive iPerformance. All three models feature a latest-generation four-cylinder turbocharged engine paired to an electric motor to provide a total system output of 326 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque. On the EU test cycle, the 740e iPerformance and 740Le iPerformance models have an all-electric range of 27 to 30 miles, while the all-wheel-drive xDrive variant returns 25 to 28 miles of all-electric driving.

Mated to the hybrid powertrain is an eight-speed Steptronic transmission that promises to deliver “outstanding internal efficiency, top-class shift dynamics and shift comfort, and a compact construction.” Available as an option are gearshift paddles.

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All told, the standard 740e iPerformance is capable of hitting 62 mph from a standstill in 5.4 seconds, while the long-wheelbase 740Le model does it 0.1 seconds slower. The xDrive variant is slightly quicker at 5.3 seconds.

An eDrive button will allow the driver to choose between settings, with the Auto mode focusing on maximizing range, but will engage the gasoline engine at 50 mph or under at heavy throttle. The Max setting is an electric-only mode that is capable of traveling up to 87 mph. Like the Auto mode, Max will also engage the engine if heavy throttle is applied.

The plug-in hybrid 7 Series models will come standard with auxiliary heating and cooling, which allows owners to prepare the cabin’s interior temperature in advance.

The German automaker confirmed to Autoblog that the BMW 7 Series iPerformance plug-in hybrid will arrive in the U.S. this August with a starting price of $90,095.

[Source: Autoblog]

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