A Lighter, More Efficient BMW 7-Series in the Works

The engineering innovations BMW has made to the i3 and the i8 are beginning to influence other models in BMW’s showroom. According to Autocar, the upcoming generation of the BMW 7-series will employ new materials (the carbon fiber-reinforced plastic of the i8 mixed with aluminum and magnesium) and altered suspension models to significantly decrease the car’s weight.

The Future of the BMW 7-Series

The innovations intend to set the bar for other vehicles in the 7-series class, cutting the total weight of the car by about 10%, with a total prospective weight around 3600 lbs. If you’re not one to go around and weigh your people’s cars, that’s less than the existing BMW 535i. Of course, those estimates will (excuse the pun) heavily depend on the type of engine purchased with the car: turbocharged four, six, eight, and 12-cylinder petrol and diesel types will be offered.

The modular platform which has been used for the 3- and 4-series, and soon the 5- and 6-series, will be the groundstone for the new 7-series, utilizing an aluminum-intensive suspension system. This will mirror the double wishbones reported on in the newest i8.

Here are some other possibilities in the works for the newest 7-series generation:

• a M7 or M750i M Performance version
• revolutionized petrol engines, including an updated 3.0-liter six-cylinder, a 4.0-liter V8, and a 6.0-liter V12.
• a hybridized petrol-electric fueling system

Through all of these changes, word is that the 7-series dimensions generally remain the same, including the standard and long-wheelbase options available.

Reports are that testing has already begun for the newest BMW 7-series, which is scheduled to make its worldwide introduction at the Frankfurt Motor Show in September 2015. Audi is reportedly fast on BMW’s heels for churning out a rival model, but for the time being, all eyes are on BMW.

Source: BMW Press