BMW’s new flagship i7 makes a great chauffeur vehicle

BMW has overhauled its flagship electric sedan, the i7, positioning the luxury EV as an ultimate chauffeur vehicle while launching a dedicated Chauffeur Program in the UK. The revamped 7 Series and i7 lineup are part of BMW’s broader strategy to roll out 40 new or refreshed models through 2027. The updated i7 serves as a technology leader, adopting innovations from the Neue Klasse while keeping its classic flagship design, highlighted by a slightly smaller kidney grille with available Kidney Iconic Glow and minimalist crystal headlights that replace the stacked headlight design of the outgoing model. Inside, the cabin embraces a high-tech layout featuring a 17.9-inch floating center infotainment display, BMW Panoramic Vision stretching across the dashboard, and a 14.6-inch passenger entertainment screen, all powered by the latest BMW Operating System X with an in-car intelligent assistant integrating Amazon Alexa+ AI technology. Rear-seat passengers are treated to a massive 31.3-inch 8K BMW Theatre Screen dropping down from the roof, complemented by updated automatic doors, ambient lighting, a digital interior mirror, ergonomically designed seats, and standard adaptive 2-axle air suspension. Utilizing BMW’s sixth-generation (Gen6) eDrive, the i7 houses a 113 kWh battery delivering up to 447 miles of WLTP range, while US models for 2027 are estimated to offer up to 362 miles of EPA range. To support commercial operators, BMW UK’s new Chauffeur Program offers tailored business solutions including a five-year Service Inclusive plan with unlimited mileage, a one-year subscription to BMW Security PRO vehicle protection and tracking, Mobility Support for replacement vehicles during warranty repairs, and an eight-year or 100,000-mile high-voltage battery warranty. Eligible orders placed by the end of 2026 also receive a free Pod home charger. The UK program is open to licensed private hire operators, chauffeur companies, executive transport providers, luxury hotel fleets, corporate and VIP transport operators, and self-employed chauffeurs, though it excludes taxi operators. In the US, the 2027 BMW i7 50 xDrive is on sale starting at $106,200, with the more powerful i7 60 xDrive starting at $124,700.