25 June 2001: BMW has released the first official pictures of the new BMW 7 Series which will make its world debut at the Frankfurt International Motorshow this September and will go on sale from spring 2002.

The new 7 Series designers have divided the cabin into two distinct areas, the ‘comfort area’ and the ‘driving area’.

The majority of secondary functions are now operated by a single central ‘controller’, a rotary dial located in front of the central armrest. By rotating and pressing the ‘controller’ and moving it laterally, the driver is able to select and control functions including the ventilation system, the audio and entertainment system, navigation and telematics applications. A central computer monitor displays the various functions and the chosen setting selections.

The new 7 Series also offers internet access through an individually configured WAP-supported BMW internet portal incorporated in the car – a world first. All the functions in the ‘comfort area’ can be operated by both the driver and the passenger.

There's no central gearlever and traditional ignition key. Instead all primary controls are located in and around the steering wheel, the centre of the ‘driving area’. Gear selection is controlled via a stalk in the steering column. The ignition switch is controlled by a new electronic key and the engine is started and stopped using a button - as on the Renault Laguna II.

A choice of two V8 engines will be available initially at launch. The 735i will be powered by a 272bhp, 3.6 litre engine with 360 Nm (266lb ft) of torque whilst the more powerful 745i will have a 333bhp, 4.4 litre engine, with 450 Nm (332lb ft) of torque.

This new generation eight-cylinder engine reduces fuel consumption by 14 per cent whilst increasing maximum power output by the same amount when compared to the outgoing V8 engines in the existing
7 Series models. This has been achieved by combining BMW’s double VANOS variable valve timing system with the new Valvetronic technology, which varies the degree of valve lift to control engine breathing, thereby negating the need for a throttle butterfly. Valvetronic technology appeared for the first time this year in the four cylinder engines produced at Hams Hall for the 3 Series Compact.

For the first time, these V8 engines both feature DIVA, a new fully variable intake manifold system. These three variable systems combine to provide the power and fuel consumption advantages of the new car. EU fuel consumption figures have the 735i recording 26.4 mpg on the combined cycle and the 745i, 25.9 mpg.

The new 7 Series will feature a six-speed automatic transmission with integrated shift-by-wire technology. Operated by a selector lever alongside the steering wheel and Steptronic buttons on the steering wheel rim. The sprint from standstill to 62mph takes just 6.3 seconds in the 745i and 7.5 seconds in the 735i. Top speed in both models is electronically limited to 155mph.

The new car has improved head airbags, new active head restraints and a new airbag safety control system which decides which safety system to deploy, and when, in the event of an accident. BB