BMW Announces New High-Tech Updates to the Iconic 7 Series

Header: Courtesy of BMW Group

BMW has given the 7 Series its largest update so far, moving the luxury saloon closer to the brand’s next phase of technology. The car is still part of the seventh generation, but the changes cover almost every area, from the exterior and interior to the drive systems, digital controls and driver assistance features. It is also the first BMW luxury saloon to use technology developed for the Neue Klasse, a role the 7 Series has become quite accustomed to since it was introduced in 1977, as it brings in new safety systems, operating concepts and digital features before they appear elsewhere in the range.

A clean outer look

The exterior introduces BMW’s new design for its luxury models, with the body having a more solid, simpler appearance. At the front, the BMW kidney Iconic Glow was combined with slim crystal headlights; along the side, the design is built around character lines and soft detailing, and in the rear, the team added new lights and cleaner forms.

BMW has also widened the visual options for the car, with the range now including three M Performance models, the M Sport package and the M Sport package Pro. BMW Individual adds further choices, including BMW Individual Dual-Finish paintwork, which the company describes as a world first. Wheel sizes now start at 20 inches and extend to new 22-inch wheels available directly from the factory.

A tech lover’s dream cabin

Inside, the 7 Series moves further towards a screen-based layout, while still using a wide mix of materials: leather, cloth, wood, crystal glass and metal. The main change is the arrival of the BMW Panoramic iDrive with the BMW Operating System X, together with the new BMW Passenger Screen. In the back, the BMW Theatre Screen has been upgraded and now supports 8K streaming, gaming and video calls, working with a Bowers & Wilkins sound system and Dolby Atmos.

An ambient light strip and new light elements are included as part of the interior package, with seating options including comfort seats and the optional Executive Lounge layout. Other equipment includes new steering wheels, updated automatic doors, a digital interior mirror, a panoramic glass sunroof, four-zone automatic climate control and the Travel & Comfort System.

The software and electronics have been updated as well, with the BMW Panoramic iDrive now being supported by the BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant, which uses Amazon’s Alexa+ AI technology. Furthermore, BMW Maps has been improved, smartphone integration has been developed further and the car supports BMW Digital Key Plus, optional BMW ConnectedDrive Upgrades and over-the-air software updates.

Powerful engines, no matter the type

The powertrain range keeps BMW’s mixed approach, as the new 7 Series is available with combustion engines using 48V mild-hybrid technology, plug-in hybrid versions and fully electric models. The electric models now use cylindrical cells from sixth-generation BMW eDrive technology, giving a WLTP range of more than 720 kilometres, or 447 miles. Charging has also been developed further, with the system now being able to plan routes around charging stops, adjust energy recovery while driving and connect with energy-market functions to help charge the car at lower-cost times.

A comfortable and safe driving experience

BMW has expanded the driver assistance systems with new SAE Level 2 functions and greater use of AI, with the BMW Symbiotic Drive now managing how the driver and assistance systems work together. The Motorway Assistant allows hands-off driving at up to 130 km/h in several European countries, and the City Assistant adds support for navigation-guided Address-2-Address journeys in urban areas. The parking systems have also been updated, with Park Assist now being standard and using AI-supported parking space detection and manoeuvre planning.

The chassis keeps the 7 Series set up for both owner-driven use and rear-seat comfort. Adaptive two-axle air suspension is standard, using four electronically controlled shock absorbers, and buyers can add Adaptive Chassis Control with Integral Active Steering or Adaptive Chassis Control Professional with Integral Active Steering and roll stabilisation. Several systems work in the background to help with control and safety, which include digital tyre conditioning monitoring with AI, an integrated braking system and near-actuator wheel slip limitation. BMW is also developing a new 7 Series Protection based on the updated model: the armoured version is built to protect occupants from firearms and explosives. It has VR9 certification, with VPAM 10 classification available as an option.

An effort to be as sustainable as possible

BMW has also set out changes around development, production, the supply chain and the car’s use phase. The sixth-generation battery cells and aluminium wheel rims with a high recycled material content are part of the measures to reduce CO₂e emissions. Production uses electricity and heat from renewable sources, supported by photovoltaic systems and a biomass heating plant. BMW says the car’s carbon footprint is verified by TÜV certification and the company has set a wider target to reduce CO₂e emissions by 60 million tonnes by 2035.