Flagship BMW X7 ute makes debut

Twelve apprentices have attacked BMW's flagship X7 and created a bespoke one-off pick-up for an annual motorcycle festival held by the car-maker's motorcycle division.

Created to accommodate a BMW F 850 GS Touring bike, the BMW X7 ute took more than ten months to kit out the big SUV with adjustable suspension and a custom load bed.

Beginning with a former X7 prototype that was originally destined for the crusher, the BMW students began by removing the car's rear cabin that was eventually replaced by a handmade teak and carbon-fibre-lined load bed.

Using the latest 3D printing, parts like the X7 ute's grab-handles and tie-downs are all bespoke.

Another unexpected benefit is without all the rear bodywork, the young engineers ended up creating an X7 pick-up that weighs in an incredible 200kg less than the standard SUV.

It's not known how much weight the X7 can carry but the load bed measures in at a decent 1400mm long and can be extended up to 2000mm by lowering the rear tailgate.

Under the bonnet there's the standard car's 3.0-litre turbocharged inline six-cylinder that produces 250kW and 450Nm and is combined with an eight-speed automatic and all-wheel drive.

BMW hasn't released any performance figures for the ute but considering the huge amount of weight saved from gas-axing half the body off, the German motorcycle hauler is almost certain to be the fastest X7 it makes until the V8s arrive.

Sadly, following its unveiling BMW was swift to rule out any chance of a production X7 being introduced any time soon.