2016 BMW 7 Series Prototype Tech Overview and Quick Drive - Automobile
MIRAMAS, France -- BMW freely admits it benchmarked the Audi A8 and Mercedes-Benz S-Class when developing its new 2016 BMW 7 Series. Not surprisingly, BMW says the latest 7 Series will have what it takes to tackle its German rivals head on, thanks in large part to it being lighter, more comfortable, and easier to use than the outgoing model. A carbon diet The 2016 BMW 7 Series, codenamed G12, employs technology similar to BMW’s Project i cars (the i8 and i3) to help it shave weight over its predecessor. Instead, the new 7 Series features what BMW calls a Carbon Core design, where strategic placement of carbon-fiber elements helps increase strength and crash protection, all while dropping pounds. Other weight-saving measures include smaller wheel hubs and suspension knuckles, aluminum hats for the steel brake discs, and new four-piston brake calipers designed to require less structural bracing, shaving up to 5. 5 pounds each. Ride and handling To provide a wider range of adjustability in the suspension, four-corner air springs and adaptive dampers are now standard on the 2016 BMW 7 Series. Source: www.automobilemag.com
