Can tech-loaded, plush 7 series take on S class? - Automotive News
NEW YORK -- BMW's redesigned 2016 7-series sedan illustrates that even the brand that touts itself as a driver's car has succumbed to the gadget and semi-autonomous driving trend. In fact, BMW has outdone the Mercedes-Benz S-class sedan with gizmos. BMW says the redesigned 7 series has 13 innovations not offered by competitors, including wireless charging and a body core made of carbon. Hildegard Wortmann, senior vice president of BMW Group product management, said BMW could not ignore the autonomous driving buzz that's grown louder in the past six to 12 months. BMW owners still want to drive their cars, Wortmann added. BMW lists 27 features that are new on its car -- and already used by some competitors. "When you enter the car, you do not touch anything plastic," said Karim Habib, head of BMW design. "We are a driver's car, but we know some customers do not drive the car. It's also a sign that BMW is seriously taking on the S class, the U. S. sales leader in the over-$80,000 sedan. Source: www.autonews.com
