BMW i7 M70 xdrive unveiled as firm’s most potent EV yet
BMW’S M PERFORMANCE division has lifted the veil on the new i7 M70 xdrive – the company’s most powerful electric model to date.
Set to go on sale during the second half of this year, the upmarket saloon arrives with a newly developed dual-motor drivetrain offering a combined 650bhp – some 40bhp more than the system used by the ix M60 xdrive launched last year.
Visually, the electric M performance saloon is distinguished from other i7 models by a new-look front bumper and a uniquely styled grille with illumination.
At the heart of the latest electric-powered M Performance model is a front electric motor with 255bhp and a heavily revised rear electric motor delivering up to 483bhp.
The two electric motors combine to provide the i7 M70 xdrive with 749lb ft, and up to 811lb ft is available for short periods of full-throttle acceleration when the M Launch Control and M Sport Boost functions are used. BMW M says it will hit 62mph from standstill in 3.7sec and reach a top speed limited to 155mph.
A 101.7kwh lithium ion battery, equipped with its own uniquely programmed power electronics system, is claimed to provide a range of between 303 and 348 miles. The latter figure is achieved in a new ‘Max Range’ driving mode that limits both the output of the electric drivetrain and the vehicle’s maximum speed.
Underneath, the i7 M70 xdrive receives a uniquely tuned air suspension system with continuously variable damping control, fourwheel steering, active roll stabilisation and active roll comfort. It also gets uprated brakes and unique 21in alloy wheels as standard.