How did BMW spend 40 years building a flagship model?

Every luxury brand has a flagship model. They must not only meet the needs of high-end users, but also play a key role in guiding the brand's style. As one of the most representative models of the BMW brand, the 7 Series is exactly such a model that leads the development direction of BMW. Today, we might as well take a look at how BMW spent 40 years building this flagship model. "Origin BMW E3" Origin In the 1970s, as the European economy entered a relatively stable stage of development, driven by market demand, all German automobile giants began the development of six-cylinder luxury sedans, and BMW also developed An inline six-cylinder engine suitable for new models was released, and the new car BMW 2500, codenamed E3, was born. BMW's new car designed a unique set of double round headlights, and this design has become one of the classic elements of subsequent BMW brand models. BMW 2500 (E3) 1968-74 BMW 3.0 CSL Racing Kit (E9) 1973-75 The 2500 model had the longest wheelbase in its class at the time, and was more sporty in its overall vehicle tuning. Since then, the two-door coupe version 3.0CSi derived from it, codenamed E9, has been welcomed by the majority of high-end car fans, and its track version 3.0 CSL has become a smash hit, racing in various automobile events. "First Generation - E23 '1977-86" The emergence of the First Generation BMW 2500 laid a solid mass base and absorbed the experience of the pioneer model. On this basis, BMW took advantage of the situation and launched the successor model code-named E23. At this time, BMW wanted to build a new system for its cars, so it adopted a new naming rule for new cars. As a result, the BMW 7 Series (7 Series) was officially born in 1977. In addition to inheriting the long wheelbase and grand design of the 2500 model, the new BMW 733i (E23) 1977-79 car also highlights the interior atmosphere that a luxury car should have. The interior covered with genuine leather and solid wood made consumers' eyesight at that time, and the spacious seats also brought the occupants in the car one of the best driving experiences at that time. In addition, BMW has also brought more technological configurations to this first flagship model to attract consumers' attention. It also became one of the few models of that year equipped with a vehicle self-checking system, a trip computer that can display maintenance mileage and cruising range, and other configurations. Its later models were equipped with seat heating, electric seats, electric windows, electric exterior mirrors and other configurations. These electronic configurations undoubtedly demonstrated its flagship model status in the 1970s and 1980s. The rich luxury configuration and excellent mechanical quality have laid a solid foundation for the debut of its subsequent models. BMW 735i (E23) 1979-86 "Second Generation - E32 '1986-94" Second Generation Thanks to the good foundation laid previously, BMW launched the second-generation model code-named E32 before the previous generation model was discontinued. In terms of styling, the iconic double-kidney grille has been stretched laterally on this generation of models, and combined with the rib design that spreads to both sides on the hood, it gives the front fascia a stronger visual impact. feel. The rear of the car has become more sharp, and the staggered turn signals have become a design highlight of BMW for a period of time. BMW 735i (E32) 1986-92 In BMW’s brand philosophy, driving experience is always a priority. Even though this is a 7 Series positioned as a large luxury sedan, the center console offset to the driver's side undoubtedly demonstrates its "driver's car" gene. With the improvement of technological level, new cars have also added more electronic configurations, and the function of the driving computer is no longer a single fault detection. In addition, this generation of models is more sophisticated in terms of assembly technology and materials than the previous generation, and the addition of light-colored interiors further enhances the sense of luxury. In addition, advanced configurations such as a parking assist system with distance display, speed-sensing wipers, electric sunroof, headlight cleaning, electric seats, and stereos have also appeared on the second-generation models. BMW 750iL (E32) 1987-94 In 1987, the V12 engine was also installed in the 7 Series for the first time. At the same time, BMW also added an electronic speed limit system for the first time, limiting the top speed of the V12 model to 250km/h. BMW 750iL (E32) 1987-94 In addition, the later 750 models also raised the configuration level of the 7 Series to a higher level. The addition of the automatic body stabilization system, traction control system, and electronic damping control system makes this rear-wheel drive car equipped with a V12 engine easier to drive. In addition, BMW has also added configurations such as on-board fax machines, telephones, double-layer privacy glass, adjustable seats, walnut tables and other features for rear passengers to meet users' high-end business needs. In the 1990s, BMW also equipped the 750iL model with xenon headlights, making it the first mass-produced model in the world to use xenon lights. "Third Generation - E38 '1994-2001" Third Generation In early 1994, BMW brought the third generation 7 Series, codenamed E38. The lower profile and slender cigar-shaped body have won numerous praises for it. The iconic double round headlights are also covered by an integral lampshade. Together with the double kidney grille that has been extended laterally, the entire front face will appear more integrated. BMW 750iL (E38) 1994-98 At this time, the interior style of the 7 Series also began to keep pace with the times. Multi-function buttons appear on the classic four-spoke steering wheel, and the blessing of the central control display also adds a bit of technology to the car. In addition, BMW also pays more attention to the richness of vehicle configurations, such as dual-zone climate control, rear electric sunshades, electronic navigation systems and other configurations, which undoubtedly enhance the style of the vehicle. In terms of safety, front airbags became a standard feature of the 7 Series in the early 1990s, and the emergence of side airbags in later models improved the protection of rear passengers. In addition, the rear suspension of this generation of models has also been replaced by a multi-link independent structure from the previous trailing arm type semi-independent structure, plus more advanced ASC body stability control system, traction control system and other auxiliary configurations and EDC electronic damping control system , the handling and comfort of the 7 Series have also been optimized. BMW 728i (E38) 1996-98 BMW 750iL "007 Tomorrow Never Dies" 1997 In 1995, BMW launched the 728i and 728iL, the entry-level models of the 7 Series, powered by a 2.8-liter inline six-cylinder engine code-named M52B28. Their emergence has undoubtedly lowered the threshold for models, and their more affordable prices have also allowed BMW to attract the attention of more buyers. At the same time, BMW also began to increase the promotion of this generation of models. The 7 Series sedan that appeared in the 007 series film "Tomorrow Never Dies" became James Bond's car. Its various stunts on the screen attracted more Ordinary consumers are familiar with BMW's flagship models. BMW 740i "Sport Pack" 1999-2001 In 1998, the third-generation 7 Series ushered in a mid-term facelift. In addition to changes in the shape of the headlights, the 7 Series also introduced a sports package for the first time, and larger wheels appeared in On later 740 and 750 series models. In addition, BMW has more and more options, such as sports seats, three-spoke steering wheel with M logo, aluminum alloy wheels, sports shock absorbers, etc., which can be customized according to user needs. It undoubtedly makes the image of the 7 Series luxurious and sporty even more profound. "Fourth Generation - E65/E66 2001-2008" Fourth Generation After 2001, the BMW 7 Series has gradually established its position in the luxury sedan market. At this time, BMW began to consider finding a new direction in a market with increasing competitive pressure, and a generation of 7 Series that subverted people's aesthetics was born. BMW 7 Series (E65) 2001-05 Although the styling of this generation of 7 Series has become extremely radical, the stocky and wide body has attracted the attention of consumers. Although this style of design is somewhat controversial, its sales performance has continued to rise. Of course, the innovative configuration may also be a major reason why this generation of BMW 7 Series has achieved good sales performance. At the same time, this generation of 7 Series is equipped with the groundbreaking BMW iDrive system, which in addition to supporting the adjustment of in-car entertainment systems, air conditioning, navigation and other functions, can also adjust the suspension mode. BMW 745i (E65) 2001-05 At the same time, in terms of power, the fourth-generation model has also undergone relatively big changes. The early 735i and 745i models were equipped with the newly developed N62 V8 self-priming engine. At the same time, this generation of models also canceled the manual transmission model, and the entire series was replaced with a 6-speed automatic manual transmission. BMW 750Li (E66) 2005-08 In 2005, after undergoing a facelift, the front face shape became much more beautiful. The design of the rear reversing lights and through-type decorative strips became the classic design elements of BMW generation. In addition, the new car also optimizes the user experience of the iDrive system and changes the gear shifting mechanism to a pocket-type gear to cater to the tastes of consumers in overseas markets. These changes to meet consumer needs have also allowed this generation of 7 Series to achieve gratifying results. . "Fifth Generation - F01-F04 '2008-2015" Fifth Generation In 2008, BMW launched the fifth generation 7 Series. In terms of appearance design, the design style of this generation of models has become much more restrained than the early design of the previous generation, and the body lines are also more elegant. Of course, it also inherits many design elements from the previous generation model, such as the outline of the headlights and the through-shaped decorative strips at the rear of the car. The staggered taillight design pays tribute to the second-generation model. BMW 750i (F01) 2008-12 comes inside the car. The gearshift mechanism is replaced by an electronic gearlever with a stronger sense of technology. The three-spoke steering wheel, the center console tilted to the driver's side, and the functional layout are more clearly arranged. All of which have made the interior of this generation of models highly praised. At the same time, while ensuring the comfort configuration of rear passengers, this generation of models also provides drivers with electric steering wheel adjustment, steering wheel heating, HUD head-up display, one-button start, automatic parking, reversing image, and steering assist. LED headlights and other configurations. In addition, the suspension structure of this generation of 7 Series has also changed. The front suspension has replaced the traditional MacPherson independent suspension with a double wishbone independent suspension, and an air suspension has been added to the rear axle. The driving experience of the vehicle also takes into account comfort. These balanced and rich configurations make the fifth-generation model more competitive in the market. BMW 750i xDrive (F01) 2008-12 "Sixth Generation - G11/G12 '2015-present" Sixth Generation In 2015, BMW released the sixth-generation 7 Series, which was also the first model based on the CLAR platform. Although its wheelbase remains the same as the previous model, the body is lightweight by using carbon fiber composite materials. In terms of design, this generation of models incorporates more tough elements, making it more in line with the current aesthetic of a luxury car. The iconic through-type decorative strip at the rear of the car has been continued, and the new style of LED light strip also brings a stronger sense of hierarchy to the rear of the car. BMW 750i M sport (G11) 2015-pr. BMW 750Li (G12) 2015-pr. The interior design of the sixth-generation model is more mature, but the gesture recognition function, touch-enabled central control screen and optional LCD The screen smart key was quite eye-catching at the time. The comfort of rear passengers has also been upgraded, and configurations including tablet control systems and rear entertainment systems have become the highlights of this generation of models. BMW 760Li xDrive (G12) 2019 In May 2019, the sixth-generation BMW 7 Series received a mid-term facelift. The more straight lines used in the design of the new BMW 7 Series also bring a more stable visual effect to this generation of BMW 7 Series. The larger air intake grille and newly designed smart laser headlights also create a stronger visual impact on the front face. BMW 740Li xDrive (G12) The cockpit of the 2019 new 7 Series has also been further upgraded, integrating a 12.3-inch LCD instrument panel and a 10.25-inch touch display. In addition, the newly equipped seventh-generation BMW iDrive intelligent human-computer interaction system is equipped with innovative functions such as intelligent personal assistant. In terms of intelligent assistance configuration, the enhanced driving assistance system is equipped with a low-speed car following function and BMW's unique automatic parking assistance system that automatically reverses along a recorded track. BMW 740Li xDrive (G12) 2019 At the same time, the power system of the new 7 Series has also received a series of upgrades. The new BMW 750Li xDrive is equipped with a 4.4-liter V8 engine. From the crankcase to the engine management system, everything has been greatly improved. The maximum power is 390 kilowatts, 60 kilowatts more than the previous generation engine, and peak torque also increased by 100 Nm to 750 Nm. In addition, the engine output of the new BMW 730Li and 740Li models has also been further improved. In more than 40 years of development history, we have witnessed the evolution of the 7 Series, from initially pursuing a single concept, to learning to analyze how to create new products from a consumer perspective, to striving to find a balance between luxury and sport. We see an increasingly mature flagship model that is gaining the favor of consumers by constantly improving itself. This may also be the unique charm of a young luxury flagship model. In the long history, which generation of 7 Series is your favorite?Related reading editor | Chen Yuxiang pictures | Network