After more than four decades of existence, BMW's 7 Series finally arrives in an all-electric version. The Bavarian brand's flagship sedan is now available in two configurations: a gas-powered V8 powertrain, and an all-electric variant delivering 536 hp in M60 format .
The underfloor lithium-ion battery has a capacity of 101.7 kWh and, according to BMW, provides a range of up to 512 km. In alternating current it can be charged to a maximum of 11 kW, and in direct current it accepts rapid charges of 195 kW. On the outside, the 7 Series leaves no one indifferent. We've become somewhat accustomed to the huge grille now found on many BMW models. We do, however, have some reservations about the twin headlamps. We've seen them on the X7, and our feelings about them remain mixed. Indeed, the adaptive LED headlights are narrower than in the previous model and are divided into two parts, with a separate module for daytime running lights, position lights and turn signals.
The 2023 BMW i7 interior Photo: Auto123 Charging time of the 2023 BMW i7 - 8/10Despite a very large battery with a useful 101.7 kWh, the BMW i7 does lag behind the Mercedes EQS and its 108.4 kWh. This translates into a range of 512 km for our 544-hp i7 xDrive60, versus 547 km for the 523-hp EQS 580 4Matic. The Mercedes benefits from teardrop aerodynamics and 130 kg less weight. The i7 exceeds 2.7 tons...
We used the batteries until there was 17 percent charge left and 84 km of range. We headed for our favorite 350 KW station. Once plugged in, the BMW i7 immediately started pumping the juice at a speed of 162 KW. BMW advertises 195 KW of maximum charging power. In short, 162 KW isn't too bad either, even if the competition is doing better in this respect. We charged for 27 minutes, leaving the station at 71 percent and 354 km of range.
When it comes to driving, the i7 might initially leave you a little dubious, but it doesn’t take long to win you over. The sedan's steering is precise, the air suspension does a remarkable job and power output is breathtaking. We deliberately took some bad roads and attacked them with purpose! We’re pretty we could have had a glass filled to the brim in a cup holder with not a drop spilled. This vehicle offers an unrivalled level of comfort, superior to that of the Mercedes EQS.