BMW i7

BMW i7 Launched in India at ₹1.95 Crore: A New Benchmark in Luxury EVs

BMW India has officially launched its flagship all-electric sedan, the i7, at a starting price of ₹1.95 crore (ex-showroom). Introduced alongside the seventh-generation BMW 7 Series at the JoyTown 2023 event in Mumbai, the i7 marks a significant step in BMW’s electrification journey in India. Both the i7 and the new 7 Series made their global debut in April 2022. The ICE (Internal Combustion Engine) version of the 7 Series starts at ₹1.70 crore (ex-showroom). The i7 takes direct aim at rivals like the Mercedes-Benz EQS in the luxury electric sedan segment.

Design and Exterior

Visually, the BMW i7 mirrors the styling of the new-generation 7 Series. It features bold design elements such as a long bonnet, upright front fascia, sharply contoured lines, and the iconic illuminated kidney grille. Slim, two-element crystal LED headlights add to its premium appeal. Blue accents distinguish the i7 from its ICE sibling, while the 7 Series gets more aggressive M Sport styling. Wheel options range from 20-inch alloys to 21-inch M Sport wheels, with darkened trim highlights enhancing its road presence.

Interior and Features

Inside, the i7 shares much of its design and layout with the new 7 Series, blending traditional luxury with futuristic tech. The cabin boasts BMW’s Live Cockpit Plus and the latest iDrive 8 system. A sleek, curved glass panel houses a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a 14.9-inch touchscreen infotainment display.

Rear seat passengers are in for a treat with the optional 31.3-inch 8K BMW Theatre Screen, which folds down from the roof and supports Amazon Fire TV for streaming on the move. Two 5.5-inch touchscreen controllers are embedded in the rear doors for individual control of infotainment and comfort features. Upholstery options include Merino leather and cashmere wool, and the cabin can be enhanced with a Bowers & Wilkins Diamond Surround Sound System for a true in-car theatre experience.

Technology and Driver Assistance

The i7 is packed with cutting-edge driver assistance systems, including Level 2+ hands-free driving, lane centring, and automatic lane change capabilities. The Parking Assistant has also been upgraded with advanced features like remote parking via smartphone and reverse assist. Other dynamic aids include adaptive steering and rear-wheel steering with a turning angle of up to 3.5 degrees, along with a self-lowering feature for enhanced aerodynamics.

Performance and Range

The BMW i7 xDrive60 is powered by dual electric motors paired with a 101.7 kWh battery pack, delivering 536 bhp and 744 Nm of torque. The electric sedan sprints from 0-100 kmph in just 4.5 seconds, with a top speed electronically limited to 250 kmph. On a single charge, the i7 offers a range of up to 483 km (EPA-rated), and supports fast charging up to 195 kW, enabling rapid top-ups.