BMW 7 Series (E65) explained

BMW 7 Series (E65/E66)
Production:2001–2008
Assembly:Germany: Dingolfing
Class:Full-size luxury car (F)
Body Style:4-door sedan
Layout:Rear-wheel drive
Related:Alpina B7 (E65)
Transmission:6-speed automatic
Width:19021NaN1
Height:1484-
Weight:1710-
Predecessor:BMW 7 Series (E38)
Successor:BMW 7 Series (F01)

The fourth generation of the BMW 7 Series consists of the BMW E65 and BMW E66 luxury cars. The E65/E66 was produced from 2001 to 2008 and is often collectively referred to as the E65. The E65 replaced the E38 7 Series and was produced with petrol and turbo-diesel straight-six and V8 engines, along with a petrol V12 flagship model.

The E65 was the first BMW vehicle to include the iDrive infotainment system and the exterior styling (overseen by Chris Bangle) marked a significant departure from traditional BMW styling. Other new features included active anti-roll bars, a six-speed automatic transmission, an electronic Smart Key (dispensing with the traditional metallic key), and night vision. The 760i model also utilised the world's first production V12 engine to use direct injection.[1] [2]

In late 2008, the E65 7 Series was replaced by the F01 7 Series.

Development and launch

Development for the BMW E65 7 Series began in early 1996. In early 1997, Chris Bangle delivered a brief to BMW's Munich and DesignworksUSA studios. After a competition between 20 designers, Adrian van Hooydonk's design was approved in the spring of 1998.[3] Production specifications were frozen in January 1999 and took 34 months from freeze to market launch.[4] [5] [6] [7] The design was patented on 16 November 2000[8] and development ended in early 2001.

The E65 was introduced at the Frankfurt Auto Show in September 2001,[9] [10] [11] and launched in Germany in November 2001.[12] In order to produce the E65 7 Series and other future models, the BMW Dingolfing plant was retooled at a cost of approximately €500million.[13]

Design

Exterior styling

Under the direction of Chris Bangle, BMW's Design Chief at the time, the BMW E65 7 Series saw a departure from traditional BMW exterior styling.[14]

BMW's board of directors were keen to move the company's image into the future, and the initial styling sketches from 1998 by Adrian van Hooydonk were of a fastback body style - even more radical than the eventual production model.[15] The controversial "flame surfacing" design[16] [17] greatly contrasted the conservative lines of its E38 predecessor. The rear end styling was nicknamed "Bangle Butt" by critics, due to the elongated rear bootlid. However, many believe that the controversial styling helped the 7 series look modern even after many years.[18] [19]

Dimensionally the E65 7 Series is 45mm longer, 38mm wider and 60mm taller than the E38. The wheelbase is 29901NaN1,[20] an increase of 60mm over the outgoing model. Despite these increased dimensions, the E65 7 Series is only 150NaN0 heavier than the E38.

Interior styling

The E65 contained many departures from automotive interior design conventions. BMW removed the traditional console mounted gear selector, replacing it with a steering-column mounted stalk[21] in favour of two cup holders. The e-brake is controlled using a button on the dashboard.[22] The seat adjustment controls were moved from their traditional place on the side of the seat base to the inside of the raised central console, which drew some criticisms. Unlike most BMWs since 1975 (including the E65's predecessor and successor), the centre instrument panel is not angled toward the driver.[23]

Engines

The V8 models were the first to use the then-new BMW N62 V8 engine, which was the world's first engine to use a continuously variable-length intake manifold.[24] It was also BMW's first V8 engine to use variable valve lift (Valvetronic),[25] [26] replacing throttle butterflies for added response, efficiency and power.[27] A system using traditional throttle butterflies was also present as a backup in case of faults in the valvetronic system.

Petrol

ModelEngineYearsPowerTorqueNaN0NaN0
730i2004–2005 170kW
at 5,900 rpm
3000NaN0
at 3,500 rpm
8.1 s
2005–2008 190kW
at 6,600 rpm
3000NaN0
at 2,500–4,000 rpm
7.8 s
735i2001–2005 200kW
at 6,200 rpm
3600NaN0
at 3,700 rpm
7.5 s
740i2005–2008 225kW
at 6,300 rpm
3900NaN0
at 3,500 rpm
6.8 s
745i2001–2005 245kW
at 6,100 rpm
4500NaN0
at 3,600 rpm
6.3 s
750i2005–2008 270kW
at 6,300 rpm
4900NaN0
at 3,400 rpm
5.9 s
760i2002–2008 327kW
at 6,000 rpm
6000NaN0
at 3,950 rpm
5.5 s
Alpina B72003–2008 368kW
at 5,500 rpm
7000NaN0
at 4,250 rpm
4.9 s

Diesel

ModelEngineYearsPowerTorqueNaN0NaN0
730d2002–2005 160kW
at 4,000 rpm
5000NaN0
at 2,000 rpm
8.0 s
2005–2008 170kW
at 4,000 rpm
5200NaN0
at 2,000–2,750 rpm
7.8 s
740d2002–2004 190kW
at 4,000 rpm
6000NaN0
at 1,900–2,500 rpm
7.4 s
745d2005 220kW
at 4,000 rpm
7000NaN0
at 1,750–2,500 rpm
6.8 s
2006–2008 242kW
at 3,800 rpm
7500NaN0
at 1,900–2,500 rpm
6.6 s

Transmissions

The E65/E66 was the first sedan to use a 6-speed automatic transmission.[28] [29] The specific models of transmission used for the E65 are:[30]

The E65/E66 was one of the few BMWs to have a column shift lever, as opposed to a stick in the centre console.

iDrive

The E65 was the first BMW to use the iDrive infotainment system.[31] The iDrive system was built on VxWorks[32] while the navigation system was built on the Windows CE for Automotive platform,[33] and featured an interface primarily based around a central control knob. Many of the functions such as climate, navigation, seat heating, telephony, and car settings were incorporated into a single system allowing for centralised control. Early versions of iDrive were criticised for complicated menu structures and a steep learning curve.[34] [35]

The first generation of the system relied on CD media for map data. In March 2003, the maps switched to DVD format,[36] a faster processor was used and a 'Menu' and 'Customisable' button were added below the control knob. In 2005, dedicated buttons were added to change radio stations or skip tracks[37] and a brighter screen was used for the 8.8" widescreen option.

Equipment

The E65 was the flagship model[38] and the most technologically advanced car produced by BMW at the time.

The following features were first introduced on the E65:

Special models

Long-wheelbase 7 Series (E66)

The E66 long-wheelbase models, badged "Li" were introduced in June 2002. Long-wheelbase models are 1401NaN1 longer, allowing for extra rear legroom.[41] The initial long wheelbase models were the 735Li, 745Li and 760Li. After 2003, 730Li, 730Ld, 740Li and 750Li models were added to the lineup.[42] [43]

High security 7 Series (E67)

The E67 high security 7 Series is an armoured variant of the BMW 7 Series. The 760Li high security was introduced at the 2003 Geneva Motor Show, with the 745Li high security model released later in September 2003.[44]

E67 high security models are designed to withstand attacks, and meet the requirements of the B7 weapons standard.[45] Security features include a detachable multi-layer laminated windscreen, a remote starting system, a fire extinguishing system, a fresh air system, and under-body protection.[46] High security models also feature run flat tyres, with Michelin's PAX system; which allows continuous driving at 800NaN0 for approximately 500NaN0, with a puncture.[46]

BMW offers a buyback service for high security models up to seven years old, which are inspected then resold to potential customers worldwide. A training course is also offered to owners and chauffeurs, and teaches car control in case of emergency situations.[44]

Hydrogen 7 (E68)

See main article: article and BMW Hydrogen 7. The BMW Hydrogen 7 is a limited production hydrogen-fueled model. It uses a modified version of the 760Li's N73 V12 engine, producing 1910NaN0. Claimed fuel economy is 501NaN1 and the hydrogen is stored as a liquid in an insulated 1700NaN0 tank. Only 100 cars were made, which were leased to high-profile customers, in order to promote the use of hydrogen vehicles.

Alpina B7

The Alpina B7 prototype was introduced to the public at the 2003 Geneva Motor Show in March, and the production version was later unveiled at the 2003 Frankfurt Motor Show. Production began in February 2004,[47] and was built in the Dingolfing BMW plant alongside the facelift model - E66.

The Alpina B7 uses a supercharged version of the 4.4-litre V8 found in the 745i, and was the first Alpina model to feature a supercharged engine.[48]

Exterior changes include a rear spoiler[49] and 21-inch traditional Alpina multi-spoke style wheels. Interior changes include sports seats, an Alpina instrument cluster, a three spoke steering wheel with shift buttons, and a silver plated production plaque.

A total of 1114 cars were produced, including 803 cars for North America.

Yearly changes

2003

2005 facelift

In March 2005, the facelift (also known as "LCI") models began production. The major changes were:

Late 2005

In late 2005, night vision (BMW night vision) became available.[54] The system uses passive infrared sensors[55] and has a claimed range of 300m (1,000feet).[56]

Automatic highbeam headlamps (BMW high-beam assistant) was introduced at the same time, whereby the high beam headlights are automatically activated in dark areas and temporarily deactivated when oncoming traffic is detected.[56]

Production

The E65 was produced at the BMW Group Plant Dingolfing in Germany, with complete knock-down (CKD) assembly for local markets conducted in Thailand (Rayong), Russia (Kaliningrad) and Egypt (6th of October City).[57]

The following are production figures for E65 7 Series models:

YearTotal
20012,979
200250,961
200357,899
200447,689
200550,062
200650,227
200744,421
200838,835
Total:343,073

Notes and References

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  2. Web site: BMW 760Li - First Drive Review. caranddriver.com. March 2003. 18 May 2017.
  3. Web site: An Interview with BMW's Chief Designer. Bloomberg L.P.. 20 May 2017.
  4. Web site: BMW : Reorganization and strengthening of the Board . Autointell-news.com . 7 February 1999 . 19 June 2018 . 20 June 2018 . https://web.archive.org/web/20180620001945/http://www.autointell-news.com/News-1999/february-1999/news_of_Feb-07-99-p1.htm . dead .
  5. Web site: Adrian Van Hooydonk - The Man To Take BMW Design Further . Bmwblog.com . 10 February 2009 . 19 June 2018.
  6. Web site: A beginner's guide to the new BMW 7-series. 30 July 2001.
  7. Web site: 2009 BMW 750Li: Stalin Would be Proud. 13 October 2008.
  8. Web site: Registerauskunft zum Design Designnummer: 40010998-0001. Deutsches Patent- und Markenamt. 12 April 2017.
  9. Web site: BMW 7-Series - 2001 Frankfurt Motor Show. https://ghostarchive.org/varchive/youtube/20211222/XvEazXs_Gio . 2021-12-22 . live. YouTube. 26 May 2017.
  10. Web site: BMW 7-series - Auto Shows. caranddriver.com. September 2001. 26 May 2017.
  11. Web site: Frankfurt Motor Show 2001 - Highlights. cardesignnews.com. https://web.archive.org/web/20061215152546/http://archive.cardesignnews.com/autoshows/2001/frankfurt/highlights/h11-bmw-7series.html. 15 December 2006. dead.
  12. Web site: 2002 BMW 7 Series First Look. motortrend.com. 2 September 2001. 26 May 2017.
  13. Book: Annual Report 2001. BMW AG. 19. 7 May 2017.
  14. Web site: The Chris Bangle Legacy. bmwstyle.tv. 26 May 2017.
  15. Web site: Design Icons: A look back at the E65 BMW 7 Series. formtrends.com. 10 April 2017. 26 May 2017.
  16. Web site: Does Chris Bangle Deserve A Lifetime Achievement Award For Car Design?. jalopnik.com. 26 May 2017.
  17. Web site: The Bavarian luxobarge: A look back at the BMW 7-series. autoweek.com. 31 August 2015. 26 May 2017.
  18. Web site: Chris Bangle Recalls Controversial BMW 7 Series Design. The New York Times. 24 November 2009. 26 May 2017.
  19. Web site: The Bangle Butt. bmwblog.com. 21 January 2015. 26 May 2017.
  20. Web site: BMW 7-Series Saloon 730d Sport 4d Auto (03) specs & dimensions Parkers. www.parkers.co.uk. en. 13 June 2018.
  21. Web site: BMW 7 Series. motoring.com.au. 1 June 2017.
  22. Web site: BMW 735i Review. thetruthaboutcars.com. 1 June 2017.
  23. Web site: BMW F01 Interior: Interview with Designers. paultan.org. 28 May 2017.
  24. Hirschfelder . Klaus . Völkl . Werner . Kühnel . Hans-Ulrich . Sinn . Walther . Huck . Armin . The first continuously variable intake system in the new eight-cylinder engine from BMW . MTZ Worldwide . March 2002 . 63 . 3 . 2–6 . 10.1007/bf03227525 . en . 2192-9114.
  25. News: BMW Engines: From M to N - Part 2. 27 December 2008. BMW BLOG. 19 February 2018. en-US.
  26. News: Bob Harper BMW E65. https://web.archive.org/web/20210107174442/https://drive-my.com/en/social/stream/item/6884.html. dead. 7 January 2021. Drive. 19 February 2018. en-gb.
  27. Web site: BMW E65 - Drive. https://web.archive.org/web/20210107174442/https://drive-my.com/en/social/stream/item/6884.html. dead. 7 January 2021. drive-my.com. 3 June 2017.
  28. Web site: BMW 7er, Modell E65, Technique in Detail: automatic transmission by ZF. schuett.info. 19 February 2018.
  29. Web site: ZF ends six-speed auto gearbox production from Germany - Autocar India. autocarindia.com. en. 19 February 2018.
  30. Web site: RealOEM.com - Select Your BMW Model. realoem.com. 19 February 2018.
  31. Web site: iDrive vs. Other Infotainment Systems. bmwblog.com. 1 June 2017.
  32. Web site: E-Series - Let's hack the MMI / infotainment system. 2021-06-16. BimmerFest BMW Forum. en-US.
  33. News: Will BMW's Infotainment Solution iDrive You up the Wall?. Lifewire. 19 February 2018. en.
  34. Web site: BMW 7 Series Review. edmunds.com. 1 June 2017.
  35. Web site: BMW 7 Series - A Look Back. topspeed.com. 1 June 2017.
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  37. Web site: 7' E65 760i Controller. realoem.com. 1 June 2017.
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  39. http://www.xolmatic.com/xprojects/XE65/MOST/bus%20system.pdf "E65 BUS SYSTEMS"
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  44. Web site: World Debut of the BMW 760Li High Security and the BMW 330i Security at the 2003 Geneva Motor Show. BMW Press Group. 15 June 2017.
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  47. Web site: ALPINA Automobiles based on BMW 7 Series- E66. alpina-automobiles.com. 11 June 2017.
  48. Web site: Milestones: ALPINA Automobiles. alpina-automobiles.com. 11 June 2017.
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  50. Web site: Top Five LCI Updates. bmwblog.com. 28 September 2015. 17 June 2017.
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  57. Web site: BMW 7 series to be added to production in Cairo from 2nd half of 2006. press.bmwgroup.com. 24 March 2018.