BMW is reportedly planning its first M Performance
model using a plug-in hybrid powertrain, according to a BMW Blog report. The
car in question will allegedly be a 7-Series dubbed the M750Le – which denotes
both the electrified powertrain as a long wheelbase.
Rather than a thirsty V8 or V12, BMW will outfit the
M750Le with the B58 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six coupled to an electric
motor. This engine, sans the hybrid system, currently delivers 382 HP in the
M40i, but a figure closer to 400 HP is possible for the new plug-in hybrid
7-Series that could be built in short wheelbase guise too.
Combined power could swell to as much as 550 HP and 800 Nm of torque with the electric motor, giving the executive
saloon enough grunt to rival even the M760Li xDrive. In addition, BMW will use
its latest-gen batteries that offer greater electric range, as well as a more
efficient electric motor.
This isn’t the only 7-Series plug-in hybrid being
developed, though. According to the same source, a 745LE PHEV is also on the
cards with the same electric motor and battery pack as the M750Le, but a
slightly less powerful internal combustion engine that could deliver anywhere
between 450 and 470 HP.
BMW is looking to reinvigorate its lineup of ‘green’
cars, and hybridizing the 7-Series is certainly one way to do it, although the
launch date is, at this point, unknown.
