BMW unveils 740e iPerformance

BMW has shown off new plug-in hybrid version of its 7 Series sedan ahead of its official debut at the Geneva motor show next month.

Called the 740e iPerformance, the new plug-in hybrid BMW combines a 190kW/400Nm 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine with a 70kW/250Nm electric motor that can power the large limo up to 40km on pure-electric power alone, reaching speeds of up to 120km/h.

Together, the combined might of petrol engine and electric motor provides 240kW of power - enough to see the 740e sprint to 100km/h, from rest, in just 5.6 seconds.

Thanks to the hybrid powertrain, the BMW limousine can also average 2.1L/100km while emitting just 49g/km of CO2.

Available in either the standard or long-wheelbase (badged 740Le), the longer limo also comes with the option of BMW’s xDrive all-wheel drive.

Drawing power from a 9.2kWh lithium ion battery that lives under the rear seat, the electric motor also acts as a generator powered by the wheels,on the move.

Higher energy recuperation can also be achieved under braking. In fact, in certain circumstances, BMW claims all the braking can be carried out by the electric motor alone to claw back as much energy as possible.

As well as powering the motor, the lithium ion cells also provide electricity for the 7 Series’ electrical components.

Charging can be carried out at home using a conventional 230V household socket that takes around four hours to fully charge the 740e from empty.

Alternatively, BMW will also offer owners a high-voltage i Wallbox charger that reduces charging time to 2.75 hours.

On sale in Europe this winter, expect the 740e to be priced near the top of the 7 Series tree, with the big BMW hybrid weighing in at around $290,000.

Luckily, for that money, BMW throws in a long list of standard equipment that includes LED lamps, satnav, a digital key and wireless phone charger.