BMW’s flagship i7 electric sedan gets M version

BMW’s flagship electric sedan is getting more vroom from the M performance subbrand.

The 2024 BMW i7 M70 xDrive, which rides on an M-tuned chassis, is being billed as the quickest and most powerful model in the German luxury marque’s battery-powered portfolio.

A pair of electric motors deliver a combined 650 hp and propel the large electric sedan from 0 to 60 mph in about 3.5 seconds.

The i7 M70 xDrive debuts this week at the Shanghai auto show in China and should arrive in U.S. stores by the fourth quarter. Pricing was not disclosed.

The i7 sedan went on sale in the U.S. late last year and is one of three battery-powered BMW models. In the first quarter, BMW sold 6,588 electric vehicles, accounting for 8 percent of its U.S. sales.

All drivetrains of the new 7 Series are based on a single architecture, the latest evolution of BMW’s CLAR platform and have basically the same body style.

The i7 M70’s rear motor, which BMW says is its most powerful electric motor, delivers up to 483 hp. Paired with a 255 hp front motor, the all-wheel-drive setup generates up to 811 pound-feet of torque.

Under the i7 M70 xDrive sits a 101.7 kWh battery that delivers an estimated 295 miles of driving range on a single charge.

An M-specific two-axle air suspension with electronically controlled dampers and automatic self-leveling comes standard. M-specific air springs with quieter hydraulics help improve damper response.

An additional shear panel between the bulkhead and spring strut towers increases body rigidity at the front. Active steering and active roll stabilization combine to improve comfort and handling.

The M variant of the i7 features contour lighting on the kidney-shaped grille.

The i7 M70 xDrive carries M-specific design features along the flanks and at the rear, along with M logos with embellished borders on the front side panels and black M exterior mirrors.

Vehicles with the M Performance Professional package feature a black M rear spoiler, a black inlay for the rear apron, and a high-gloss black surround fitted around the illuminated grille.

The flagship EV is offered in a two-tone paint job that features a “Liquid Copper” metallic finish for the lower section of the body and “Saphire Black” metallic for the upper section.

Production of the i7 M70 xDrive begins in Dingolfing, Germany, this summer.