BMW expands i7 battery for 2027

BMW increased the usable battery capacity of the 2027 i7 60 xDrive to 112.5 kWh, up from 101.7 kWh in previous models. The automaker kept the vehicle on a 400-volt architecture rather than adopting the newer 800-volt system used in its newest electric vehicles. This decision keeps the flagship sedan electrically distinct from the rest of the company's expanding electric lineup.

The company introduced the current 7 Series in 2022. BMW positioned the electric i7 as a direct alternative to the gas-powered V8 model instead of creating a separate electric brand. The two versions share a body, with differences limited to badging and the absence of exhaust pipes. Since then, the manufacturer has released electric versions of the 5 and 3 Series along with their SUV counterparts.

BMW switched from prismatic cells to cylindrical cells for higher energy density in these newer models. The drive units now feature silicon carbide inverters and more compact packaging. These components are part of a sixth-generation powertrain designed for the Neue Klasse family. The new platform replaces dozens of discrete electronic control units with a few powerful domain controllers. These computers handle chassis control and powertrain efficiency with faster processing speeds and easier software updates.

The 2027 i7 60 xDrive produces a combined 544 horsepower and 549 pound-feet of torque. These figures are roughly equivalent to the pre-facelift version of the car. The midlevel model was the primary vehicle available for testing at the recent first drive event. BMW will also offer a less powerful 50 xDrive and a more powerful M70 xDrive variant.

The update ensures the flagship sedan maintains competitive performance against other electric vehicles in the brand's portfolio. The new battery pack allows the i7 to keep pace with the higher energy density arrangements found in the newer 5 and 3 Series electric models. The shift to domain controllers also prepares the vehicle for future software capabilities without requiring major hardware changes to the chassis.

The 2027 i7 60 xDrive is ready for production following the midlife update. The vehicle retains the same powertrain output as its predecessor while gaining additional range through the larger battery pack. The 400-volt system remains the standard electrical framework for this specific model, distinguishing it from the newer high-voltage platforms used in the company's other recent electric releases.