Previously, it was announced that the BMW 740e plug-in hybrid will be making its way to Australia before the end of 2016, making three-for-three in the BMW iPerformance range after the X5 xDrive40e SUV and the 330e sedan.
Now, though, BMW Australia says that the hybrid 7 Series is confirmed for landfall and will indeed show up in local showrooms – although now the official timeline has moved to ‘late 2016’ - with a price of $229,000 for the large saloon.
Just like all the other models that fall into BMW’s iPerformance category, a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine can be found under the 740e’s engine, which is far smaller that what would normally be expected to adequately power the luxury flagship.
This makes the augmentation of an asynchronous electric motor all the more important, providing fuel economy as well as instant power and torque. Despite only displacing two litres, however, the small engine outputs an impressive 190kW and 400Nm. Coupled with the electric motor, which generates an additional 83kW and 250Nm, the 740e’s total maximum output rises to 240kW and 500Nm.
That electric motor is sandwiched in between the petrol engine and the car’s 8-speed automatic transmission, allowing it to offer additional drive at any gear. The motor and 9.2kWh (7.4kWh usable) battery are both liquid-cooled, and has enough capacity to propel the 740e on electric power alone for up to 48km and can reach speeds of up to 140km/h.
Buyers who opt for the BMW 360 Electric program can also have the BMW i Wallbox installed in a convenient location such as their home or place or work to provide a full charge in just 2.5 hours as opposed to the 5 hours required from an ordinary domestic wall socket.
The 740e iPerformance also gains some hybrid-specific equipment such as access to BMW ConnectedDrive eDrive services, a supplied charging cable, Acoustic Protection for Pedestrians, and a six-year or 100,000km high voltage battery warranty.
For more on BMW vehicles, including pricing and specifications, check out our Showroom.
