New BMW 7 Series launched, with hybrid models to follow

BMW has released pictures and specification for the new 7 Series executive saloon, including details of two new hybrid models.

Due to the use of carbon-fibre reinforced plastic (CFRP) for the Carbon Core, the new BMW 7 Series is both stronger and up to 130kg lighter than its predecessor.

Like its predecessor, the new BMW 7 Series is offered in two body variants. The wheelbase of the extended version is 14cm longer, at 3,210mm and offers extra rear space as a result. At 5,098mm in total length (long-wheelbase version: 5,238mm), 1,902mm in width and 1,478mm (1,485mm) in height, the new BMW 7 Series is the largest series-produced car the brand has ever built.

The diesel unit powering the BMW 730d and BMW 730Ld models has a 3.0-litre capacity and likewise boasts a 7hp increase in output, in this case to 265hp.

There are also two new plug-in hybrid models: the BMW 740e, and the BMW 740Le xDrive.

The vehicle utilises a 2.0-litre petrol engine with BMW TwinPower Turbo technology and an electric drive unit integrated into the eight-speed Steptronic transmission.

While producing a total system output of 326hp, it returns a combined fuel consumption of 134.5mpg in the guise of the BMW 740e or a combined electric power consumption of 12.5 kWh. CO2 emissions are 49g/km.

The new BMW 7 Series goes on sale on October 24, 2015. Prices start at £64,530 OTR.

Model	Power Hp	Torque Nm	0 – 62mph Seconds	Top Speed Mph	Combined Mpg	CO2 Emissions g/km	OTR Price
740Li	326	450	5.6	155*	41.5	159	£72,060
730d	265	620	6.1	155*	60.1	124	£64,530
730Ld	265	620	6.2	155*	58.9	127	£68,480
730d xDrive	265	620	5.8	155*	56.5	132	£67,260
740e	326	500	5.6	149 (Electric only:75)	134.5	49	TBC
740Le xDrive	326	500	5.5	149 (Electric only: 75)	122.8	53	TBC