BMW has expanded its EV line-up by introducing the 2024 i7 M70 xDrive. Debuting at the 2023 Shanghai auto show, the flagship electric sedan is set to become BMW’s most powerful EV when it goes on sale at the end of this year. Believed to be the spiritual successor to the outgoing V12-powered M760Li, the M70 xDrive is powered by an updated dual-motor powertrain. The electric motor powering the rear axle is capable of producing 483 hp and 479 lb-ft of torque, making it the most powerful electric motor by BMW. The motor in the front produces 255 hp and 269 lb-ft of torque, giving the M70 a combined output of 650 hp and 811 lb-ft of torque. In comparison, the i7 xDrive60’s electric powertrain offers a combined output of 536 hp and 549 lb-ft of torque.
BMW claims the i7 M70 xDrive can rocket from a dead stop to 60 mph in just 3.5 seconds, making it the brand’s quickest fully electric model. The top speed is limited to 155mph. The electric motors draw energy from a floor-mounted 101.7-kWh battery pack that gives the M70 an estimated range of between 303 and 348 miles based on Europe’s WLTP cycle.
In addition to a power powerful powertrain, the M70 has also received some other crucial mechanical updates, which include specific four-corner air suspension, electronically controlled dampers, and active anti-roll bars. Additionally, the M70 rides on massive black-painted 21-inch alloy wheels as standard. However, buyers can opt for the optional 20-inch wheels fitted with high-performance tires.
The i7 M70 xDrive features plenty of aesthetic updates to set it apart from the rest of the range, including M-specific design touches like side skirts, logos, the Shadowline trim, and black twin-spoke exterior mirrors. It also gets a model-specific rear apron and diffuser insert. An optional M Performance Professional package adds a black M rear spoiler, a black accent strip between the taillights, a black grille surround, and a black rear apron inlay.
The M70 can be ordered with a two-tone paint or the buyers can choose from over 100 BMW Individual paint colors. While the cabin is largely unchanged over the normal i7, the new version debuts BMW’s updated operating system, BMW iDrive OS 8.5. The pricing is yet to be revealed by BMW but we expect the i7 M70 xDrive to have a starting price close to $150,000.
