BMW Debuts New 2016 7 Series Sedan
BMW Welt
MUNICH – At the BMW Welt in Munich, BMW announced the premier of the sixth-generation 7 Series sedan. Slated to arrive in U.S. showrooms in the fall, two gasoline-powered models will be available, a 740i and a 750i xDrive.
Diesel variants in other markets including Germany will include a 730d and a 730Ld. A 740e plug-in hybrid model will also be available.
The new 7er makes extensive use of carbon-fiber-reinforced plastic in the structure of the passenger cell. It also introduces what BMW says is a world first, Gesture Control, a feature that allows specific hand movements made near the center console to adjust audio volume, accept or reject phone calls, and perform other functions including setting the navi’s destination to home.
Other features include wireless charging, which includes a universal holder compatible with a range of mobile phones that support wireless charging. A built-in Wi-Fi hotspot is standard.
A two-section panoramic moon roof with an opening front section is standard; optional is the Panoramic Sky Lounge LED Roof, where uses LED modules along the sides to create the effect of stars in the night sky.
Four-zone automatic climate control and a separate control console in the rear are standard as are heated front and rear armrests (the system heats the armrests in both the doors and the front and rear center consoles). The Active Kidney Grille uses air flap control. The air flap is open only when the car requires additional cooling. Keeping the flap closed improves the vehicle’s aerodynamics.
A high-tech key, the Display Key, is optional. It displays vehicle status on a 2.2-inch LCD screen, supports swiping gestures, and can show if the doors are locked or windows are open or if a service appointment is required.
The new flagship sedan is being built in BMW’s Din golfing plant, just as its predecessor was. Production is set to begin on July 1, 2015.
(Photo: Accura Media Group)
