The luxury model will also be available in an electric version, which will feature next-generation batteries developed by BMW in collaboration with Croatian company Rimac Technology.
The new Gen6 technology will introduce cylindrical cell batteries instead of prismatic ones, enabling a 20 percent higher volumetric energy density compared to Gen5 technology. The battery in the redesigned BMW i7 will combine the new Gen6 cell technology with the modular architecture of Gen5 technology.
In other words, the new batteries developed by Rimac and BMW will provide greater range and faster charging. Before being delivered to the factory in Dingolfing, Germany, where the BMW 7 Series is produced, the high-voltage battery will be manufactured on state-of-the-art equipment at Rimac Technology in Croatia, at the Rimac Campus near Zagreb—a purpose-built, cutting-edge facility and one of the largest industrial construction projects of its kind in Europe.
For this occasion, Rimac Technology has built an entirely new production plant, industrialized two complete production lines, and established a supply chain. The production lines, with 80 robotic arms, 300 workstations, and an investment of 130 million euros, are a significant achievement for neighboring Croatia.
"BMW has always been known for taking engineering to the highest level, which made this collaboration particularly exciting for us. Together, we developed a high-voltage battery system that unlocks the full potential of the new cylindrical cells in record time, delivering significant improvements in energy, range, and charging performance. We are proud to now see this system being produced in large series at our new Rimac Campus," said Mate Rimac, founder and president of the Rimac Group and CEO of Bugatti Rimac, on this occasion.
The new CEO of Rimac Technology, Nurdin Pitarević, also emphasized the importance of the collaboration with the Bavarian giant.
"This collaboration with BMW represents an important step forward in electric vehicle technology. Together, we developed advanced battery technology for the BMW i7, providing outstanding performance, efficiency, and reliability. What makes this partnership special is BMW's engineering excellence and their approach to collaboration—treating Rimac Technology not just as a supplier, but as a true technology partner. I believe this is an excellent example of how OEMs and technology companies should collaborate in the future."
Dr. Thomas Engelhardt, Senior Vice President for High-Voltage Storage and Charging Development at the BMW Group, did not hide his excitement.
"We are rapidly introducing Neue Klasse technologies across our entire model portfolio—including, of course, our all-electric luxury sedan. The development teams of both companies created a tailored solution for the new BMW i7 in an exceptionally short time. The excellent collaboration with Rimac Technology is a strong example of European innovative power."
The new redesigned BMW i7 will be officially unveiled on April 22 at the Beijing Auto Show.