BMW is currently testing the next generation of its 7-series model scheduled to be unveiled in September 2015 at the Frankfurt Motor Show.

New lightweight next-generation BMW 7-series in development

A report on Autocar states that the next-generation BMW 7-series will ride on an all-new 35up lightweight scalable platform that is made of aluminium, magnesium, carbon fibre-reinforced plastic and high-strength steel. This combination is said to make the new model lighter than the current model, shedding up to 200 kg.

The vehicle expected to be offered in an extra-long wheelbase variant and will additionally feature styling cues from the Vision Future Luxury concept that appeared at this year’s Beijing Motor Show. It will benefit from double wishbones up front and a multi-link rear set-up at the rear together with a new generation of air springs and road-scanning technology.

The new model will further be offered with a range of turbocharged four, six, eight and 12-cylinder petrol and diesel engines, with the V8 and V12 to be all-new designs that use a 500cc individual cylinder capacity as their basis. It will also come with a standard nine-speed automatic transmission and the option of rear or four-wheel drive.

Production of the next-generation BMW 7-series is expected to commence in the latter half of 2015, following its September 2015 introduction at the Frankfurt Motor Show. Sales are said to commence at the beginning of 2016.

*BMW Vision Future Luxury concept pictured.