The next-generation BMW 7-series will use carbonfibre in its construction, according to R&D chief Klaus Draeger.
After the launch of the i3 and i8 in BMW's new eco sub-brand, the flagship saloon will be the first mainstream BMW model to incorporate the lightweight material, probably in 2015.
Draeger said the new 7-series’ structure would probably feature a mix of materials, with the carbonfibre parts being added to the aluminium and steel used in today’s car. It’s thought the roof, bonnet and bootlid are most likely to be made from carbonfibre.
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Re: Next BMW 7-series to use carbonfibre
The kerb weight of BMW's big saloons and coupes have increased enormously in recent years. It's all very well coming up with clever efficient dynamics solutions to help reduce consumption and emission. But this is negated when the cars' weights start to get out of hand, not to mention the detrimental impacts on the cars handling, agility etc.
So let's hope the use of carbon fibre and lightweight metals will actually result in an overall reduction of the next 7's weight, model for model, as opposed to merely keeping the ever increasing weight in check.
Re: Next BMW 7-series to use carbonfibre
Certainly makes sense if BMW have invested in carbon fibre tech for their i series cars to introduce it on the high end conventional vehicles.
I would be a little more cautious though, at least for the next couple of years, in introducing it much lower down the range.