BMW 7 Series – next-gen to offer extra-long version?

030-bmw-7-series-long-wheelbase-facelift

The next-gen G11 BMW 7 Series – due in 2016 – could come with an ‘extended wheelbase’ version as a response to the upcoming Mercedes-Benz S-Class Extended Wheelbase, according to BMWBlog.

The current F01/F02 7 Series LCI (pictured) is available in short- and long-wheelbase configurations, but the new W222 S-Class sedan will spawn short-, long-, extended-wheelbase and six-seater Pullman versions.

While the S-Class Pullman will be in a class of its own, the introduction of an extra-long 7er could divert the S-Class Extended Wheelbase’s crosshairs away from BMW’s Rolls-Royce Ghost. Unsurprisingly, the main markets are likely to be China and the Middle East.

Thanks to more extensive use of carbon fibre, plus a roof, bonnet and boot lid that are likely to be made out of CFRP (carbon fibre reinforced plastic), the G11/G12 BMW 7 Series is set to be lighter than the current car. The base 740i is said to weigh “dramatically” less than 1,900 kg, BMWBlog reports.

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Jonathan James Tan

While most dream of the future, Jonathan Tan dreams of the past, although he's never been there. Fantasises much too often about cruising down Treacher Road (Jalan Sultan Ismail) in a Triumph Stag that actually works, and hopes this stint here will snap him back to present reality.

 

Comments

  • niterunner99 on Dec 10, 2013 at 3:15 pm

    Believe for China mkt only…but seriously how long a wheelbase is enough?!
    Will have problem doing 3 point turns & U turns at certain places…not to mention hard to find longer parking lots!

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 2 Thumb down 0
  • SamShowedMeTheHilux on Dec 10, 2013 at 3:48 pm

    The 7 series is such a failure in Malaysia. Nobody buys it. Cannot challenge Mercedes S class.

    The few 7 series you see are always official cars used in government conference which later is sold for half price to people after the conference is over. From RM700,000, few months later it is sold for RM400,000

    Also, besides conference, 80% of 7 series you see in Malaysia are Sime Darby head of department cars. Fleet cars for Sime Darby staff.

    Nobody buys 7 series at all in Malaysia. The King of Limos go to Mercedes S class.

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 6 Thumb down 15
  • sudonano on Dec 10, 2013 at 8:13 pm

    Hmm, but anyone reckon the G series of vehicles may use an even newer platform? Probably some form of Carbon Fiber hybrid construction?

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 1 Thumb down 0
 

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