Within the BMW Group, the "Efficient Dynamics" technology strategy has been adopted to reconcile the seemingly contradictory values of dynamic driving and energy conservation. The two models introduced represent the ultimate expression of these two pillars of the BMW brand: dynamics and efficiency.

M760Li xDrive with V12 Engine

The top-of-the-line model in the flagship "7 Series" sedan lineup is the newly introduced "M760Li xDrive."

BMW M760Li xDrive

BMW M, the sub-brand responsible for developing high-performance sports cars that embody BMW's motto of "the ultimate driving machine," has...M3, M4...two categories: BMW M models, such as the "M5," and M Performance Automobiles, which combine sporty performance and excellent efficiency with high practicality for daily driving. The M760Li xDrive belongs to the latter category, positioned between M models and standard vehicles.

The highlight of the M760Li xDrive is undoubtedly its engine. It is powered by a newly developed 6.6-liter V12 BMW M Performance TwinPower Turbo engine, delivering a maximum output of 610 hp and peak torque of 800 Nm. Combined with the xDrive all-wheel-drive system and an 8-speed automatic transmission, it achieves a 0-100 km/h acceleration time of 3.7 seconds.

The xDrive system detects signs of oversteer or understeer based on vehicle data such as steering angle and wheel speed. It then instantly optimizes the torque distribution between the front and rear axles via an electronically controlled multi-plate clutch in the transfer case, ensuring superior road holding.

Two model variations are available: the "M760Li xDrive," featuring an M Aerodynamics package for a sporty exterior, and the "M760Li xDrive V12 Excellence," which emphasizes an elegant style with extensive use of chrome exterior parts. Both models are priced at ¥24.2 million, making them the most expensive in the BMW lineup.

New Entry Model is a Plug-in Hybrid

The other new addition is the "740e iPerformance", which serves as the entry-level model for the 7 Series.

The "i Performance" models are next-generation hybrid vehicles equipped with BMW's electric drive technology from the "BMW i" sub-brand, which offers sustainable mobility. In Japan, besides the 740e iPerformance, the lineup includes...330e iPerformance, 225xe Active Tourer iPerformance...X5 xDrive40e iPerformance...four models.

The 740e iPerformance's powertrain combines a new-generation 2-liter inline 4-cylinder engine with a high-output electric motor compactly integrated between the engine and the 8-speed automatic transmission. This engine and motor combination drives the rear wheels.

The new-generation hybrid system in the 740e iPerformance, featuring a high-capacity battery and a powerful electric motor, produces a maximum output of 326 hp and peak torque of 500 Nm. It accelerates from 0-100 km/h in 5.4 seconds, surpassing the "740i" at 5.5 seconds and the previous generation "ActiveHybrid 7" at 5.7 seconds, despite being an entry-level model.

The 9.2 kWh lithium-ion battery, approximately seven times larger than that of the previous ActiveHybrid 7, is located beneath the rear seats. The fuel tank is also positioned beneath the luggage compartment, ensuring a trunk capacity of 420 liters.

This large battery allows for zero-emission driving solely on electric power for up to 42 km at speeds up to 140 km/h. For comparison, the ActiveHybrid 7 had a battery capacity of 1.35 kWh and could only reach 60 km/h and travel 4 km on electric power alone.

According to Mr. Yuji Okada, Manager of Product Marketing at BMW Brand Management Division, "In past trials, the average daily driving distance for users in urban Japan was 25 to 30 km. This means that with daily charging, the average user could drive the car continuously without using a single drop of gasoline."

Furthermore, the 740e iPerformance allows drivers to change the hybrid system's operating mode with a simple button press to suit their preferences. Mr. Okada highlighted the Battery Control mode as the most important. "With this mode, the battery can be fully charged even while driving, allowing users without home charging facilities to enjoy zero-emission driving with peace of mind," he stated.

ChargeNow Public Charging Network Service Included as Standard

The i Performance models come standard with "ChargeNow", the public charging service network recently introduced for BMW and BMW i vehicles. This allows for one year of free use of approximately 8,500 standard chargers nationwide within the NCS network, Japan's largest charging network, in partnership with BMW.

Additionally, the dedicated smartphone app, ChargeNow, displays partner charging stations on a map and provides details about each station, including real-time availability.

Furthermore, the 740e iPerformance includes the eDrive service within its BMW ConnectedDrive telematics services, allowing easy access to the vehicle via a smartphone. Specifically, "for example, if the car has been parked in the hot sun during summer or on a cold morning before heading to work in winter, you can remotely activate the car's air conditioning from your smartphone to set a comfortable interior temperature before getting in."

In addition to the standard model, the 740e iPerformance is also available in an M Sport model. Prices are ¥11.69 million and ¥12.40 million, respectively.

Regarding the reason for making the plug-in hybrid the entry-level model, Mr. Okada stated, "We want more BMW users to experience environmentally friendly vehicles. As a result, we aim to contribute to the reduction of carbon dioxide (CO2). It's not enough to simply release environmentally advanced models; their true value is realized when they are introduced in a mass-market price range and sold in significant numbers."

Finally, regarding the addition of new models to the 7 Series, Mr. Okada commented, "We have now added two iconic BMW models to the sixth-generation 7 Series, which has been well-received by many users since its launch last October. Our goal is to offer customers a wider range of choices and establish a new benchmark for luxury sedans."