BMW reveals new 7 Series plug-in hybrid model

BMW has announced a new powertrain option for its recently updated 7 Series luxury saloon – the 745e plug-in hybrid.

Available in standard and Le long-wheelbase forms, the 745e mates a six-cylinder petrol engine with a battery and electric motor to provide both four-wheel drive and increased urban efficiency.

The 3.0-litre petrol engine produces 286bhp on its own, while the electric motor can push out 113bhp. Together the two give a total system output of 394bhp and maximum torque of 600Nm – endowing this two-tonne limousine with hot hatch-style acceleration. 0-60mph takes just five seconds.

Long-wheelbase models, meanwhile, are even faster thanks to four-wheel drive. They’re capable of hitting 60mph in just 4.9 seconds.

Both cars use the same 12kWh battery pack, which gives the short-wheelbase model a maximum electric range of 36 miles. Long-wheelbase models can manage 34 miles. Both will do up to 87mph in electric mode, too.

BMW claims impressive fuel economy and emissions ratings for the hybrid 7 Series, though it’s worth noting these were achieved under less taxing NEDC tests rather than the more accurate WLTP. Still, a maximum 141mpg and 48g/km of CO2 are impressive results for such a large machine.

Interior fittings are as luxurious as on any other models in the range, with the only tell for passengers being a slightly smaller load bay and bespoke hybrid instrument panel.

The models are set to go on sale in the spring. The short-wheelbase 745e will be priced from £76,815, while long-wheelbase 745Le xDrive models sit at £83,560.