German carmaker BMW has introduced new BMW i7 eDrive50, showcasing its impressive performance and extended range. The new electric vehicle boasts a maximum output of 335 kW and an exceptional range of 575 to 611 kilometers, as per the WLTP standards. Notably, customers in the United States can also opt for a boosted variant of both the i7 and i4 models, offering even longer ranges.
Equipped with an electric motor on the rear axle, the i7 eDrive50 delivers a maximum torque of 650 Nm, enabling the base model to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in just 5.5 seconds. The top speed is electronically limited to 205 km/h. While BMW has not disclosed detailed information about the battery, the i7’s maximum range of 611 kilometers exceeds that of the base model, indicating an upgraded battery configuration.
BMW’s online configurator reveals that the i7 eDrive50 features the same battery unit with a gross capacity of 105.7 kWh and a net capacity of 101.7 kWh. The battery supports fast charging with a capacity of up to 195 kW DC, allowing the vehicle to reach a charge level of 80 percent in just 34 minutes. Moreover, the i7 comes with an 11 kW onboard charger for convenient AC charging.
Interestingly, the all-wheel-drive variant with a power output of 400 kW offers a slightly longer range, despite using the same battery. This discrepancy is due to the rear electric motor’s more efficient performance in low-power scenarios, as observed in the WLTP test procedure. Additionally, the all-wheel-drive model can leverage the front electric motor for enhanced regenerative braking, further improving overall efficiency. Similar principles apply to other models such as the Porsche Taycan, where the all-wheel-drive version achieves a slightly higher standard range than the rear-wheel-drive model.
Following its debut last year, the i7 xDrive60 entered the market as a 400 kW all-wheel-drive model. In April, BMW introduced the flagship i7 M70 xDrive with an impressive output of 485 kW. Now, the i7 eDrive50 replaces the 400 kW all-wheel-drive model as the most affordable i7 model, with prices starting at €115,700 in Germany.
BMW has also announced upcoming upgrades for its electric lineup, including new features for the BMW i7 and BMW iX models. From summer 2023, all variants of these vehicles will benefit from additional functionalities. Notably, the Multi-Contract Plug & Charge function, which enables automatic authentication at public charging stations, will be included in the BMW Charging range. This function was recently introduced with the new i5 and can be retrofitted through remote software updates for BMW i7 models produced since July 2022 and BMW iX vehicles produced since March 2023.
Furthermore, a ‘Max Range’ function will be available through remote software updates for i7 and iX models manufactured after the specified production dates. This function allows drivers to increase the range by up to 25 percent by limiting drive power, top speed, and comfort functions. BMW clarifies that the Max Range function serves as a range buffer for situations where planned stopovers cannot be made, rather than for regular operation.
Another software update specifically enhances the charging efficiency of iX models built from March 2023 onwards. Thanks to BMW’s advancements in charging software, these models will experience shorter charging times, although the exact time savings have not been specified.
Moreover, BMW has improved route planning for the i7, iX, i4, and iX1 models. Drivers can now set preferred charging levels for each stopover and destination, with the option to select charging stations from specific providers or exclude others from the route planning. This feature will be available through software updates, potentially extending its applicability to vehicles already delivered, without any restrictions based on production date.
In the United States, alongside the i7 eDrive50, BMW will also enhance the electric range of the i4 lineup. The 2024 i4 xDrive40, a new all-wheel-drive variant, will be introduced. This model features dual electric motors producing a total of 396 hp and 443 lb-ft of torque, enabling acceleration from 0 to 60 mph in 4.9 seconds. The i4 xDrive40 is equipped with an 80.7 kWh battery with a net usable energy content and can be charged at up to 205 kW on a DC fast charger. It offers an estimated range of up to 307 miles with standard 18-inch wheels or 282 miles with optional 19-inch wheels, according to preliminary tests based on EPA standards.
The 2024 BMW i4 xDrive40 will have a starting price of $61,600, excluding the $995 destination and handling fee. The 2024 BMW 750e xDrive, expected to enter the US market in the third quarter of 2023, will be priced at $107,000, also excluding the $995 destination and handling fee. Deliveries of the 2024 BMW i4 xDrive40 in the United States are set to commence in the same quarter.
