There has been a push in recent years for automotive designers to create vehicles with a lounge-like interior, but the notion typically stops at a smattering of oversized cupholders or a fold-down tray table for rear occupants.
Such an observation can’t be leveled at BMW, particularly where the new BMW i7 is involved, as this is one of the very few cars in existence where keen drivers will be fighting to clamber into the sumptuous and spacious rear seats. It’s the basis of the German marque’s new “Forwardism” concept.
Sitting at the very center of this concept is a suite of cutting-edge technology, while spanning the full width of the interior is a 31.3-inch 8K theater screen for rear passengers. With built-in Amazon Fire TV, a Bowers & Wilkins surround-sound system, and optional in-seat exciters for a tangible viewing experience, it’s an entertainment oasis on wheels.
BMW’s relentless quest for progression doesn’t end with (arguably) the most forward-thinking rear compartment in any modern car, either, as BMW has drastically reduced the number of switches and dials that would typically surround a driver.
Digitalization has allowed BMW's designers to implement a 12.3-inch information display that sits behind the steering wheel, as well as a control display with a screen diagonal of 14.9 inches. This sumptuously curved screen allows simple control of most of the vehicle’s major functions.
In addition to this, an innovative and digitally customizable BMW Interaction Bar extends from below the trim strip across the full width of the instrument panel and well into the door panel trim. It houses touch-sensitive control panels and adjusts everything from the ventilation and climate control to opening the glove compartment, presenting a cleaner, more space-efficient cockpit.
This allows whoever is behind the wheel (and not enjoying a Netflix binge in the rear) to make the most of 544 hp and 745 Nm of torque on tap, thanks to a 101.7 kWh battery pack and four powerful electric motors—one in each wheel for added performance, agility and grip.
As such, it takes just 4.7 seconds to propel all 5.4 meters of the sleek and stylish i7 from 0-62 mph, while the generous battery packs offer a staggering official range of up to 387 miles on a single charge.
Effortless performance aside, the new BMW i7 stands its ground as perhaps the only fully-electric, long-wheelbase chauffeur car currently available—but it also boasts myriad innovations to woo those who prefer to be driven.
For the first time ever, the BMW i7 can be specified with automatically opening front and rear doors—all those on board need to do is touch the handles set flush into the body, or the buttons in the BMW Interaction Bar.
Opt for the Executive Lounge, and the rear seats can be electronically adjusted to almost lie flat, while the neck cushions can be individually adjusted for the most relaxing ride possible.
The latest generation of BMW’s flagship saloon isn’t simply an evolution of a model, it’s a revolution for the segment: BMW’s “Forwardism” concept incarnate.
Discover more about the BMW i7 by visiting BMW.co.uk
This article was originally published by WIRED UK
