BMW 7 Series Takes Innovation Lead in the Luxury Class

MULGRAVE, AUSTRALIA – June June 26, 2009: The new 7 Series features a host of cutting edge new technologies, many of which are not offered by key rivals, revealing that ingenious ideas which provide pioneering solutions for customers are hallmarks of BMW.

For example Head-Up Display, which allows drivers to keep their eyes on the road thanks to key driving information presented directly in their line of sight, is standard on the 730d and not yet available on competitor vehicles.

High Beam Assist, which relieves drivers of the need to constantly adjust their headlights when driving at night, is also standard and exclusive to the new 730d in the upper luxury sedan segment.

At the same time, BMW’s engineers are continuing to develop other customer benefits, many of which are exclusive to the 7 Series in this segment.

The new pedestrian recognition feature of BMW’s optional Night Vision system is unique in this segment. It ensures safer and more comfortable driving at night. At 100 km/h, the camera can provide seven seconds warning of potential hazards, more than enough time to take evasive action. The panning function turns the camera image when the vehicle is corning, allowing driver to see around corners in the dark.

Another customer benefit, available exclusively to 7 Series buyers in this segment, is the new Side View camera. Utilising two cameras in the front wheel arches, the driver can easily monitor crosswise traffic when edging out of a driveway or when parking in confined spaces.

Also available on the 730d – and not yet offered by rivals in this class – is a feature which detects any unintentional drifting off course, perhaps when a driver is fatigued. The Lane Departure Warning system, which is able to look 50 metres ahead and can be used at night, vibrates the steering wheel to alert the driver.

In addition, and for the first time in a BMW, radar sensors at the rear of the car monitor traffic in adjacent lanes allowing drivers to overtake (or change lanes) in greater safety. The optional Lange Change Warning system illuminates a triangle symbol on the base of the exterior mirror when there is another car in a critical range. A discreet vibration of the steering wheel also cautions against making the manoeuvre.

Highlighting its exclusive character, the BMW 730d is also equipped standard with soft close doors. This feature ensures that the doors are securely closed with a minimum of exertion and without unpleasant noise. This appreciable customer benefit – standard on the 730d – is only available as a cost option on its key diesel rivals. Similarly, a rear view camera – standard on the 730d – is a cost option on its immediate diesel competitors.

In another world first, the 7 Series owner has all the information usually found in a printed handbook also stored electronically in their car, uniquely structured to reflect exactly the features and specifications of their vehicle. Owners can search by pictures (imagine painting by numbers), topics, or simply select the “option” any time. The on-line version of the handbook also contains slide shows on key new features.