What’s the most powerful fully electric BMW production car ever made? You’re looking at it. This is the new i7 M70 xDrive, and it comes in as not only one of the most luxurious models from the brand, it is also a technological showpiece and a preview of what could be on the way for regular BMW models in the future.
The BMW i7 M70 is powered by a 101.7kWh (106kWh gross) battery that’s mounted under the body. This feeds force to a 190kW front-mounted electric motor, and a 360kW rear-mounted electric motor. Combined? You’re looking down the barrel at 485kW and up to 1100Nm.
Maximum torque is normally 1015Nm, but if you’re brave enough to hit the M Sport Boost button or engage the launch control system you get the full 1100Nm. Using launch control also enables the land yacht to cover 0-100km/h in just 3.7 seconds.
You may have noticed the ‘M’ in the name. It’s not a full M model but an M Performance model. That means it is inspired by the top-shelf M products, but let’s face it, would anybody actually buy or want a fully fledged ‘M7’ if there was such a thing?
Probably not. Because the 7 Series is more about luxury and the pleasure of driving rather than lap times and churning tyres. Even so, the i7 M70 does come with proper M air suspension including automatic levelling and electronic-controlled dampers.
The air springs have been tuned to provide a direct connection between the road and the vehicle, not just comfort. M-specific hydraulics have also been employed to optimise the damper response, and there’s an additional shear panel between the front bulkhead and spring strut towers to increase rigidity.
To top it off BMW has fitted up its Integral Active Steering system, which incorporates rear-wheel steering, along with the Executive Drive Pro chassis package with active roll stabilisation and Active Roll Comfort.
All of this means the i7 M70 should feel like you’re driving through a river of custard, but with the response and connected feel typical of BMW performance models. M Sport brakes provide the stopping power, with special aerodynamic 21-inch M light-alloy wheels finished in black, setting the look.
In terms of the exterior design the M70 does come with a unique aero package, along with distinct M side mirrors in the traditional twin-stalk theme, as well as bespoke trimmings around the body, an exclusive front grille area, and a scattering of M badges.
The interior is breathtaking in that it manages to blend together all new levels of technology and attention to detail. All of the on-board systems run on BMW’s latest operation system 8.5 with QuickSelect, with a giant curved display screen running across the dash. This is the first production model to run this latest system.
Rear passengers are not left without, though. In the back is a giant flip-down screen BMW calls the Theatre Screen. It measures a whopping 31 inches and pretty much takes over the entire rear seat frontal view. This works in conjunction with the on-board Bowers & Wilkins surround sound system for the ultimate in motoring relaxation.
So, how much are they talking? BMW Australia has confirmed the i7 M70 xDrive will go on sale here. It is scheduled to arrive in Q4 this year, priced from $344,900. It joins the existing i7 xDrive60 and 7 Series range. See below for the range prices (before on-road costs):
2024 BMW 740i: $272,900
2024 BMW i7 xDrive60: $306,900
2024 BMW i7 M70 xDrive: $344,900
