This year, BMW debuted a stunning plug-in hybrid vehicle. It has only recently arrived in US showrooms and is a lovely addition to the standard BMW 7 Series. The 2017 BMW 740e xDrive iPerformance is one of two hybrid 7-series models. The other plug-in hybrid BMW model is the 740Le, which is a longer version of the 740e and comes with optional BMW xDrive all-wheel drive.
In Europe, the BMW 740e is expected to perform well. Many European city centers have banned all car traffic except hybrid and electric vehicles in the name of environmental friendliness. People who need or want to drive there must do so in an environmentally friendly vehicle. For these people, car manufacturers such as BMW and Porsche convert some of their well-known luxury vehicles into hybrid or electric vehicles. The 2017 BMW 740e xDrive iPerformance unquestionably falls into this category.
Exterior design
The 740e is essentially the 2016 BMW 7 series model with a few minor changes to distinguish it as a hybrid. The charging port is located on the left side of the car, right next to the wheel arch.
The blue shades that come with an electric BMW are also noticeable differences from the regular 7 series. This is visible on the double kidney grille, where the additional lines in between the chrome vertical strips are blue rather than chrome. In addition, the headlights have a blue tint around the lamps, and eDrive, I and 740e badges can be found all over the car.
Interior design
The same rule applies here: don’t expect too much difference with the 7 series. Of course, the digital gauges will show the power percentage and charging status. The rest of the cabin is furnished with the same high-quality materials. When configuring the car, you can select from eighteen different leather shades in either regular or exclusive leather. There are also up to ten different color options for dashboard and doorpanel inserts. Furthermore, personalization is possible and can be discussed at your local BMW dealership.
The fantastic Bowers & Wilkins Diamond Surround Sound System is also available in the 2017 BMW 740e iPerformance. Ambient lighting contributes to a pleasurable driving experience.
Engine specs
The 740e plug-in hybrid is propelled by a gasoline engine as well as an electric battery. The engine is a four-cylinder 2.0-liter engine. The 2017 BMW 740e iPerformance is the first 7-series vehicle to use a four-cylinder engine rather than a V6. However, this four-cylinder engine is the most powerful BMW has ever created, and it is known as the Efficient Dynamics engine. Of course, the extra power from the electric battery compensates for the engine’s reduced horsepower. When only the gas engine is used, the hp is 258. This figure places the 740e in direct competition with the upcoming 2018 Lamborghini Urus SUV plug-in hybrid.
The gas engine serves as an electric generator for the battery as well. Waste power is converted into energy and stored in the battery when it is not used by the engine. As a result, the 740e can also be used as a regular hybrid.
The electric engine is a synchronous motor that generates 113 horsepower and is always on. The electric engine serves as a generator as well. Braking power and unused engine power are combined to generate electricity, which is then stored in the 9.2 kWh lithium-ion battery. Fast charging is possible with this battery. In both Europe and the United States, the 2017 BMW 740e iPerformance is only available with an eight-speed steptronic automatic transmission.
The driver can control the electric and gas engines by selecting Auto or Max eDrive Mode. In Auto Mode, the car’s computer determines the best balance of gas and electric engines to use. Max eDrive allows the car to travel up to 87 mph solely on its electric motor (140 kilometers). At higher speeds, the gasoline engine automatically takes over.
Tech specs
The 2017 BMW 740e iPerformance is available with four different driving modes. Sport, Comfort, Eco Pro, and Adaptive are the four options. The last option is ideal for those who aren’t thrilled with all of the options. Adaptive mode allows the car’s computer to determine which driving mode is the best based on the current driving style.
Real Time Traffic Info and Concierge Service are two other notable tech features carried over from the regular BMW 7 series. This last option connects you directly to a BMW call center agent who will serve as your personal assistant. When you need the best or nearest restaurant, the agent will look it up for you and send directions to your navigation system. There are no hidden fees, and Concierge Service is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
When an airbag or belt tensioners are activated, Intelligent Emergency Call is triggered. An automatic call is placed to the BMW call center, and relevant information from the car’s SIM card is sent to them. They will assist you until emergency services arrive. IEC can also be activated manually if the driver witnesses an accident that necessitates assistance. Remote Services, Online Entertainment, and a Wifi hotspot can also be selected.
A navigation system, as well as steering and lane control assistance, parking assistance, and a 360-degree camera, are optional. A night vision camera also detects people and large animals from a distance and alerts the driver with a red warning light when they pose a serious risk.
Price and sale date
The 2017 BMW 740e is already available in Europe and the United States. The 740e starts at $89,100 in the United States, and around €93,000 in Europe.