Photography by Sammy Chan
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Text adapted from BMW Canada press release:
The new BMW 7 Series points to the future of the luxury/performance sedan. The fourth generation BMW flagship sets new benchmarks in performance, luxury, design and safety with a multitude of technological highlights, an innovative vehicle control concept and dynamic interior and exterior styling.
The Benchmark in Performance: Revolutionary V8 with the World's First Six-Speed Automatic Transmission. The 4.4 litre V8 in the 745i may share displacement with its predecessor but technical advancements are abound. Power, flexibility and efficiency are optimized through a level of variability never seen before. Valve timing - Double VANOS, valve lift - Valvetronic and, for the first time ever, intake tube length all adapt continuously. This level of control enables the new engine to set new standards for performance and efficiency. The new 4.4 liter V8 is rated at 333 hp and 332 lb-ft of torque. This revolutionary powerplant is mated to an equally revolutionary transmission - the world's first production six-speed automatic. It uses shift-by-wire technology and is operated by an all new selector behind the steering wheel. The BMW 7 Series is renowned for its superlative blend of ride comfort and handling prowess. The new 7 Series combines a new all aluminum suspension with Dynamic Drive. Dynamic Drive improves handling through Active Roll Stabilization (ARS) combining special sensors with two active anti-roll bars to reduce body "roll" or "lean".
The Benchmark in Luxury and Design: The iDrive Concept. With iDrive the new 7 Series presents a bold new concept for interaction between driver and automobile. In the course of this revolutionary step into the future, innovative alternatives were even found for the gearshift lever and ignition key. Along with a unique array of functions there is also a drastic reduction in, and reorientation of, controls. The elements of immediate importance for driving are located in and around the steering wheel, and a few frequently-used core functions may be found in the center of the dashboard. Most of the other functions - including navigation, telephone, climate control and entertainment systems - are all controlled through an intuitively operated Controller, set in the center console, in concert with the Control Display. iDrive means simple, safe operation of and convenient access to the myriad features at the driver's disposal.
The Benchmark in Safety: ISIS, HPS II, Active Head Restraints and Active Knee Protection. Passive Safety innovation has been a 7 Series hallmark. The advanced Head Protection System (HPS II) works with the optional rear side airbags to provide inflatable head protection for rear seat passengers as well as front. Active Head Restraints offer enhanced protection in rear impacts. It also features Active Knee Protection with unique airbag protection for the knees of front seat passengers. Coordinating all of the passive safety systems is the Intelligent Safety and Information System (ISIS). An evolution of BMW's Integrated Deployment Logic, ISIS uses a variety of sensors to tailor the restraint systems' response to a more precise reading of each impact.
The 745i and 745Li mark a complete revolution in design and technology, and is priced at $95,700 and $102,200 respectively.
© Sammy Chan & Edwin
Lau
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