The Next-Generation Of BMW 5- and 7-Series Could Get An Electric Version

The Bavarian automaker is preparing several electric vehicles in the following years, including the iX3, iX4, and iNext. Well, it seems like the next generation of famous BMW 5- and 7-Series could also get through the electrification process. According to the company, the BMW 7-Series will get an electric version by 2022. Moreover, a 5-Series will follow that fashion shortly afterward.

But, the company reports do not show any specific info regarding these two models. But, some earlier rumors stated that the ‘i7’ model could include multiple battery packs. Of course, the i7 nameplate is unofficial, and it is based on pure guessing. Yet, nothing is official when it comes to the BMW EVs. The same reports claim that the electric 7-Series model will use an 80 kWh battery, while the higher trim might include an even larger 120 kWh battery. That will provide a driving range of approximately 430 miles (700 km).

Platform and Driving Range

The upcoming electric BMW 5- and 7-Series will be based on the carmaker’s fifth-generation platform, which underpins both ICE and electric vehicles. Moreover, to ensure that the forthcoming model will appeal to the full range of customers, the Bavarian company will sell it in a host of different configurations. The entry-level version of the electric 7-Series will offer a relatively small 80 kWh battery pack, probably the same one used by the BMW i4 model.

Still, if the customers want a better driving range, there will be available at least two additional battery packs for purchase. The first one is a 120 kWh unit that will provide around 430 miles (700 km). Another battery choice could be offered with different electric motors. The range-topping model will include two electric motors with the all-wheel-drive system. The combined output will deliver approximately 600 hp (485 kW/659 PS).

What Can We Expect From Forthcoming Electric BMW 5- and 7-Series?

The Bavarian automaker will offer next-gen 5- and 7-Series models with petrol, diesel, and hybrid powertrains. Also, with the new pure electric version, the company will adequately cover all variants. The multi-engine strategy will benefit the automaker since BMW will be able to build up the production of versions that shows popular and successful. Moreover, the carmaker could concentrate on diesel and petrol engines, if the electric project fails to draw the attention of the customers. Well, both of these EVs are still far from the production.

On the other hand, the company will present the i4 electric model later next month. The i4 will go in too the production in 2021. It will include an electric mill that produces 523 hp (390 kW/530 PS). Furthermore, the carmaker will develop a powertrain that will be used in the four-door Gran Coupe, and it will sprint from 0-60 mph (0-100 km/h) in about 4 seconds. The top speed will hit 125 mph (200 km/h). On top of that, the upcoming i4 will use an 80 kWh battery for a range of 373 miles (600 km) in the WLTP cycle.