BMW 7 Series (E65)#High security 7 Series (E67)
{{Use dmy dates|date=January 2021}}
{{Infobox automobile
| name = BMW 7 Series (E65/E66)
| image = BMW 7er (E65) front 20100918.jpg
| caption =
| aka =
| manufacturer = BMW
| model_code = {{ubl
| E65 (short-wheelbase)
| E66 (long-wheelbase)
| E67 (high-security)
| E68 (Hydrogen 7)
}}
| production = July 2001–2008
| model_years =
| assembly = Germany: Dingolfing
| designer = {{ubl |Adrian van Hooydonk, |Chris Bangle }}
| class = Full-size luxury car (F)
| body_style = 4-door sedan
| layout = Rear-wheel drive
| related = Alpina B7 (E65)
| platform =
| engine = {{ubl
| Petrol:
| Diesel:
}}
| transmission = 6-speed automatic
| propulsion =
| wheelbase = {{ubl
|{{convert|2990|mm|in|1|abbr=on}} (E65)
|{{convert|3130|mm|1|abbr=on}} (E66)
}}
| length = {{ubl
|{{convert|5029|mm|in|1|abbr=on}} (E65)
|{{convert|5169|mm|in|1|abbr=on}} (E66)
}}
| width = {{convert|1902|mm|in|1|abbr=on}}
| height = {{convert|1484|-|1492|mm|in|1|abbr=on}}
| weight = {{convert|1710|-|2040|kg|lb|0|abbr=on}}
| predecessor = BMW 7 Series (E38)
| successor = BMW 7 Series (F01)
}}
The fourth generation of the BMW 7 Series consists of the BMW E65 and BMW E66 luxury cars. The E65/E66 was produced from 2001 to 2008 and is often collectively referred to as the E65. The E65 replaced the E38 7 Series and was produced with petrol and turbo-diesel straight-six and V8 engines, along with a petrol V12 flagship model.
The E65 was the first BMW vehicle to include the iDrive infotainment system, and the exterior styling (overseen by Chris Bangle) marked a significant departure from traditional BMW styling. Other new features included active anti-roll bars, a six-speed automatic transmission, an electronic Smart Key (dispensing with the traditional metallic key), and night vision. The 760i model also utilised the world's first production V12 engine to use direct injection.{{cite web|title=BMW 760Li - First Drive Review|url=http://www.caranddriver.com/reviews/bmw-760li-first-drive-review|website=caranddriver.com|date=March 2003|access-date=18 May 2017}}
In late 2008, the E65 7 Series was replaced by the F01 7 Series.
Development and launch
Development for the BMW E65 7 Series began in early 1996. In early 1997, Chris Bangle delivered a brief to BMW's Munich and DesignworksUSA studios. After a competition between 20 designers, Adrian van Hooydonk's design was approved in the spring of 1998.{{cite web|title=An Interview with BMW's Chief Designer|url=https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2006-10-15/online-extra-an-interview-with-bmws-chief-designer|publisher=Bloomberg L.P.|access-date=20 May 2017}} Production specifications were frozen in January 1999 and took 34 months from freeze to market launch.{{cite web |url=http://www.autointell-news.com/News-1999/february-1999/news_of_Feb-07-99-p1.htm |title=BMW : Reorganization and strengthening of the Board |publisher=Autointell-news.com |date=7 February 1999 |access-date=19 June 2018 |archive-date=20 June 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180620001945/http://www.autointell-news.com/News-1999/february-1999/news_of_Feb-07-99-p1.htm |url-status=dead }}{{cite web|url=http://www.bmwblog.com/2009/02/10/adrian-van-hooydonk-the-man-to-take-bmw-design-further/ |title=Adrian Van Hooydonk - The Man To Take BMW Design Further |publisher=Bmwblog.com |date=10 February 2009 |access-date=19 June 2018}}{{Cite web|url=https://www.just-auto.com/analysis/a-beginners-guide-to-the-new-bmw-7-series_id86797.aspx|title = A beginner's guide to the new BMW 7-series|date = 30 July 2001}}{{Cite web|url=http://www.motortrend.com/news/2009-bmw-750li-stalin-would-be-proud-2038/|title = 2009 BMW 750Li: Stalin Would be Proud|date = 13 October 2008}} The design was patented on 16 November 2000{{cite web|title=Registerauskunft zum Design Designnummer: 40010998-0001|url=https://register.dpma.de/DPMAregister/gsm/register?DNR=40010998-0001|website=Deutsches Patent- und Markenamt|access-date=12 April 2017}} and development ended in early 2001.
The E65 was introduced at the Frankfurt Auto Show in September 2001,{{cite web|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XvEazXs_Gio |archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/varchive/youtube/20211222/XvEazXs_Gio |archive-date=2021-12-22 |url-status=live|title=BMW 7-Series - 2001 Frankfurt Motor Show|via=YouTube|access-date=26 May 2017}}{{cbignore}}{{cite web|url=http://www.caranddriver.com/news/bmw-7-series-auto-shows-1|title=BMW 7-series - Auto Shows|website=caranddriver.com|date=September 2001|access-date=26 May 2017}}{{cite web|url=http://archive.cardesignnews.com/autoshows/2001/frankfurt/highlights/h11-bmw-7series.html|title=Frankfurt Motor Show 2001 - Highlights|website=cardesignnews.com|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20061215152546/http://archive.cardesignnews.com/autoshows/2001/frankfurt/highlights/h11-bmw-7series.html|archive-date=15 December 2006|url-status=dead}} and launched in Germany in November 2001.{{cite web|title=2002 BMW 7 Series First Look|url=http://www.motortrend.com/cars/bmw/7-series/2002/2002-bmw-7-series-2/|website=motortrend.com|date=2 September 2001|access-date=26 May 2017}} In order to produce the E65 7 Series and other future models, the BMW Dingolfing plant was retooled at a cost of approximately €500{{nbsp}}million.{{cite book|title=Annual Report 2001|publisher=BMW AG|page=19|url=https://ddd.uab.cat/pub/infanu/169241/iaBMWa2001ieng.pdf|access-date=7 May 2017}}
Design
= Exterior styling =
File:BMW 7er (E65) rear 20100918.jpg
Under the direction of Chris Bangle, BMW's Design Chief at the time, the BMW E65 7 Series saw a departure from traditional BMW exterior styling.{{cite web|title=The Chris Bangle Legacy|url=http://www.bmwstyle.tv/the-chris-bangle-legacy/|website=bmwstyle.tv|access-date=26 May 2017}}
BMW's board of directors were keen to move the company's image into the future, and the initial styling sketches from 1998 by Adrian van Hooydonk were of a fastback body style - even more radical than the eventual production model.{{cite web|title=Design Icons: A look back at the E65 BMW 7 Series|url=https://www.formtrends.com/e65-bmw-7-series/|website=formtrends.com|date=10 April 2017|access-date=26 May 2017}} The controversial "flame surfacing" design{{cite web|title=Does Chris Bangle Deserve A Lifetime Achievement Award For Car Design?|url=http://jalopnik.com/5927545/does-chris-bangle-deserve-a-lifetime-achievement-award-for-car-design|website=jalopnik.com|access-date=26 May 2017}}{{cite web|title=The Bavarian luxobarge: A look back at the BMW 7-series|url=http://autoweek.com/article/classic-cars/history-bavarian-plutobarge-look-back-bmw-7-series|website=autoweek.com|date=31 August 2015|access-date=26 May 2017}} greatly contrasted the conservative lines of its E38 predecessor. The rear end styling was nicknamed "Bangle Butt" by critics, due to the elongated rear bootlid. However, many believe that the controversial styling helped the 7 series look modern even after many years.{{cite web|title=Chris Bangle Recalls Controversial BMW 7 Series Design|url=https://wheels.blogs.nytimes.com/2009/11/24/chris-bangle-recalls-controversial-bmw-7-series-design/comment-page-1/?_r=0|website=The New York Times|date = 24 November 2009|access-date=26 May 2017}}{{cite web|title=The Bangle Butt|url=http://www.bmwblog.com/2015/01/21/bangle-butt/|website=bmwblog.com|date=21 January 2015|access-date=26 May 2017}}
Dimensionally the E65 7 Series is {{Convert|45|mm|1|abbr=on}} longer, {{Convert|38|mm|1|abbr=on}} wider and {{Convert|60|mm|1|abbr=on}} taller than the E38. The wheelbase is {{convert|2990|mm|in|1|abbr=on}},{{cite web|url=https://www.parkers.co.uk/bmw/7-series/saloon-2002/730d-sport-4d-auto-(03)/specs/|title=BMW 7-Series Saloon 730d Sport 4d Auto (03) specs & dimensions {{!}} Parkers|website=www.parkers.co.uk|language=en|access-date=13 June 2018}} an increase of {{Convert|60|mm|1|abbr=on}} over the outgoing model. Despite these increased dimensions, the E65 7 Series is only {{convert|15|kg|lb|0|abbr=on}} heavier than the E38.
= Interior styling =
The E65 contained many departures from automotive interior design conventions. BMW removed the traditional console mounted gear selector, replacing it with a steering-column mounted stalk{{cite web|title=BMW 7 Series|url=http://www.motoring.com.au/bmw-7-series-3174/|website=motoring.com.au|access-date=1 June 2017}} in favour of two cup holders. The e-brake is controlled using a button on the dashboard.{{cite web|title=BMW 735i Review|url=http://www.thetruthaboutcars.com/2002/03/bmw-735i/|website=thetruthaboutcars.com|access-date=1 June 2017}} The seat adjustment controls were moved from their traditional place on the side of the seat base to the inside of the raised central console, which drew some criticisms. Unlike most BMWs since 1975 (including the E65's predecessor and successor), the centre instrument panel is not angled toward the driver.{{cite web|title=BMW F01 Interior: Interview with Designers|url=https://paultan.org/2008/10/20/bmw-f01-interior-interview-with-designers/|website=paultan.org|access-date=28 May 2017}}
{{clear right}}
Engines
The V8 models were the first to use the then-new BMW N62 V8 engine, which was the world's first engine to use a continuously variable-length intake manifold.{{cite journal |last1=Hirschfelder |first1=Klaus |last2=Völkl |first2=Werner |last3=Kühnel |first3=Hans-Ulrich |last4=Sinn |first4=Walther |last5=Huck |first5=Armin |title=The first continuously variable intake system in the new eight-cylinder engine from BMW |journal=MTZ Worldwide |date=March 2002 |volume=63 |issue=3 |pages=2–6 |doi=10.1007/bf03227525 |language=en |issn=2192-9114}} It was also BMW's first V8 engine to use variable valve lift (Valvetronic),{{Cite news|url=http://www.bmwblog.com/2008/12/27/bmw-engines-from-m-to-n-part-2/|title=BMW Engines: From M to N - Part 2|date=27 December 2008|work=BMW BLOG|access-date=19 February 2018|language=en-US}}{{Cite news|url=https://drive-my.com/en/social/stream/item/6884.html|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210107174442/https://drive-my.com/en/social/stream/item/6884.html|url-status=dead|archive-date=7 January 2021|title=Bob Harper BMW E65|work=Drive|access-date=19 February 2018|language=en-gb}} replacing throttle butterflies for added response, efficiency and power.{{cite web|title=BMW E65 - Drive|url=https://drive-my.com/en/social/stream/item/6884.html|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210107174442/https://drive-my.com/en/social/stream/item/6884.html|url-status=dead|archive-date=7 January 2021|website=drive-my.com|access-date=3 June 2017}} A system using traditional throttle butterflies was also present as a backup in case of faults in the valvetronic system.
= Petrol =
| class="wikitable sortable" style="text-align: center;"
!Model!!Engine!!Years!! Power!!Torque!!{{convert|0–100|km/h|mph|0|abbr=on}} | ||||
| rowspan=2|730i
|M54B30 |{{convert|300|Nm|lbft|0|abbr=on}} | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| N52B30 3.0 L I6 | 2005–2008 | {{convert|190|kW|PS hp|0|abbr=on}} at 6,600 rpm | {{convert|300|Nm|lbft|0|abbr=on}} at 2,500–4,000 rpm | 7.8 s |
| 735i
|N62B36 | ||||
| 740i
|N62B40 | ||||
| 745i
|N62B44 | ||||
| 750i
|N62B48 | ||||
| 760i
|N73B60 | ||||
| Alpina B7
|H1 |
= Diesel =
| class="wikitable sortable" style="text-align: center;"
!Model!!Engine!!Years!! Power!!Torque!!{{convert|0–100|km/h|mph|0|abbr=on}} | ||||
| rowspan=2|730d
|M57D30TU | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| M57D30TU2 3.0 L I6 turbo | 2005–2008 | {{convert|170|kW|PS hp|0|abbr=on}} at 4,000 rpm | {{convert|520|Nm|lbft|0|abbr=on}} at 2,000–2,750 rpm | 7.8 s |
| 740d
|M67TUD40 | ||||
| rowspan=2|745d
|M67D44 | ||||
| M67TUD44 4.4 L V8 twin-turbo | 2006–2008 | {{convert|242|kW|PS hp|0|abbr=on}} at 3,800 rpm | {{convert|750|Nm|lbft|0|abbr=on}} at 1,900–2,500 rpm | 6.6 s |
Transmissions
The E65/E66 was the first sedan to use a 6-speed automatic transmission.{{cite web|url=http://schuett.info/bmw/modelle/e65/zulieferer/zf/automatic_transmission_6hp26.php|title=BMW 7er, Modell E65, Technique in Detail: automatic transmission by ZF|website=schuett.info|access-date=19 February 2018}}{{cite web|url=https://www.autocarindia.com/car-news/zf-ends-six-speed-auto-gearbox-production-from-germany-381512|title=ZF ends six-speed auto gearbox production from Germany - Autocar India|website=autocarindia.com|language=en|access-date=19 February 2018}} The specific models of transmission used for the E65 are:{{cite web|url=http://www.realoem.com/bmw/enUS/select?product=P&archive=0&series=E65&body=Lim|title=RealOEM.com - Select Your BMW Model|website=realoem.com|access-date=19 February 2018}}
- 6-speed ZF 6HP26 automatic (730d / 735i / 740i / 745i / 750i / 760i)
- 6-speed ZF 6HP19 automatic (730i)
- 6-speed ZF 6HP 32 automatic (740d / 745d)
The E65/E66 was one of the few BMWs to have a column shift lever, as opposed to a stick in the centre console.
iDrive
File:BMW_E65_iDrive_Controller_Update.jpg
File:BMW_E65_iDrive_LCI_Settings.jpg
The E65 was the first BMW to use the iDrive infotainment system.{{cite web|title=iDrive vs. Other Infotainment Systems|url=http://www.bmwblog.com/2015/04/09/idrive-vs-other-infotainment-systems/|website=bmwblog.com|access-date=1 June 2017}} The iDrive system was built on VxWorks{{Cite web|title=E-Series - Let's hack the MMI / infotainment system|url=https://www.bimmerfest.com/threads/lets-hack-the-mmi-infotainment-system.1309505/|access-date=2021-06-16|website=BimmerFest BMW Forum|language=en-US}} while the navigation system was built on the Windows CE for Automotive platform,{{Cite news|url=https://www.lifewire.com/examining-the-bmw-idrive-interface-534742|title=Will BMW's Infotainment Solution iDrive You up the Wall?|work=Lifewire|access-date=19 February 2018|language=en}} and featured an interface primarily based around a central control knob. Many of the functions such as climate, navigation, seat heating, telephony, and car settings were incorporated into a single system allowing for centralised control. Early versions of iDrive were criticised for complicated menu structures and a steep learning curve.{{cite web|title=BMW 7 Series Review|url=https://www.edmunds.com/bmw/7-series/|website=edmunds.com|access-date=1 June 2017}}{{cite web|title=BMW 7 Series - A Look Back|url=https://www.topspeed.com/cars/car-news/bmw-7-series-a-look-back/|website=TopSpeed.com|access-date=1 June 2017}}
The first generation of the system relied on CD media for map data. In March 2003, the maps switched to DVD format,{{cite web|title=7' E65 730i Navigation system|url=http://www.realoem.com/bmw/en/showparts?id=GL21-EUR-03-2003-E65-BMW-730i&diagId=65_1168 |website=realoem.com |access-date=1 June 2017}} a faster processor was used and a 'Menu' and 'Customisable' button were added below the control knob. In 2005, dedicated buttons were added to change radio stations or skip tracks{{cite web|title=7' E65 760i Controller|url=http://www.realoem.com/bmw/en/showparts?id=HL01-EUR-03-2005-E65-BMW-760i&diagId=65_1536|website=realoem.com|access-date=1 June 2017}} and a brighter screen was used for the 8.8" widescreen option.
Equipment
The E65 was the flagship model{{cite web|title=7 Series - E65/E66 (2001 - 2008)|url=http://www.bmwheaven.com/index.php/7-series/11-15?showall=1|website=bmwheaven.com|access-date=9 June 2017|archive-date=25 January 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220125101450/https://www.bmwheaven.com/index.php/7-series/11-15?showall=1|url-status=dead}} and the most technologically advanced car produced by BMW at the time.
The following features were first introduced on the E65:
- Active anti-roll bars (active roll stabilisation) to reduce body roll when cornering. It uses a hydraulic servo in the middle of the anti-roll bar to actively counteract body roll and to reduce body roll without the traditional trade-off in ride comfort.
- Directional headlights (adaptive headlights) which electronically adjust the low-beam lights horizontally (during turns) and vertically (based on rear axle load). Also, the E65 was the first BMW available with bi-Xenon (HID) headlights.
- World's first car with an electric parking brake. This could automatically activate in stop-and-go traffic situations and when the ignition was switched off.
- World's first car to offer a 6-speed automatic transmission
- First BMW with DVD-based GPS automotive navigation system.
- Adaptive cruise control (ACC), however this was available in some markets on the previous generation 7 Series (E38).
- The optional automatic soft close system minimized the force required to close the doors and boot lid, and would completely close them if improperly closed.
- Two fibre-optic electronic networks: MOST Bus (media-orientated system transport)[http://www.xolmatic.com/xprojects/XE65/MOST/bus%20system.pdf "E65 BUS SYSTEMS"] www.xolmatic.com/xprojects/XE65/MOST/bus%20system.pdf. Retrieved 19 February 2018.{{cite web|url=https://www.carmanualsonline.info/bmw-7-series-2005-e65-most-bus-diagnosis-workshop-manual|title=BMW 7 SERIES 2005 E65 MOST Bus Diagnosis Workshop Manual|website=carmanualsonline.info|access-date=19 February 2018}} and "Byteflight" (safety systems bus). These busses operate at 22.5 Mbit/s and 10 Mbit/s respectively. Also, the I-bus, K-bus and P-bus were replaced by the K-CAN (Body-controller area network). This increased the system speed from 9.6 kbit/s to 100 kbit/s.
Special models
= Long-wheelbase 7 Series (E66) =
The E66 long-wheelbase models, badged "Li" were introduced in June 2002. Long-wheelbase models are {{convert|140|mm|in|1|abbr=on}} longer, allowing for extra rear legroom.{{cite web|title=Road Test BMW 745i|url=http://www.caranddriver.com/reviews/bmw-745i-road-test-precise-steering-page-2|website=caranddriver.com|date=June 2002|access-date=13 June 2017}} The initial long wheelbase models were the 735Li, 745Li and 760Li. After 2003, 730Li, 730Ld, 740Li and 750Li models were added to the lineup.{{cite web|title=2004 745 New Car Test Drive|url=http://www.autoblog.com/buy/2004-BMW-745/expert-review/|website=autoblog.com|access-date=13 June 2017}}{{cite web|title=2003 BMW 760Li vs. M-B S600 - Comparison Tests|url=http://www.caranddriver.com/comparisons/2003-bmw-760li-page-2|website=caranddriver.com|date=July 2003|access-date=13 June 2017}}{{clear right}}
= High security 7 Series (E67) =
The E67 high security 7 Series is an armoured variant of the BMW 7 Series. The 760Li high security was introduced at the 2003 Geneva Motor Show, with the 745Li high security model released later in September 2003.{{cite web|title=World Debut of the BMW 760Li High Security and the BMW 330i Security at the 2003 Geneva Motor Show|url=https://www.press.bmwgroup.com/usa/article/detail/T0022167EN_US/world-debut-of-the-bmw-760li-high-security-and-the-bmw-330i-security-at-the-2003-geneva-motor-show?language=en_US|website=BMW Press Group|access-date=15 June 2017}}
E67 high security models are designed to withstand attacks, and meet the requirements of the B7 weapons standard.{{cite web|title=BMW 7 Series High Security |url=http://www.bmw-ids.com:80/seven_s.html |website=bmw-ids.com |access-date=15 June 2017 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20030410165238/http://www.bmw-ids.com/seven_s.html |archive-date=10 April 2003 }} Security features include a detachable multi-layer laminated windscreen, a remote starting system, a fire extinguishing system, a fresh air system, and under-body protection.{{cite web|title=BMW 7 Series High Security |url=http://www.bmw-ids.com:80/c73.html |website=bmw-ids.com |access-date=15 June 2017 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081211164231/http://www.bmw-ids.com/c73.html |archive-date=11 December 2008 }} High security models also feature run flat tyres, with Michelin's PAX system; which allows continuous driving at {{Convert|80|km/h|mph|0|abbr=on}} for approximately {{Convert|50|km|mi|0|abbr=on}}, with a puncture.
BMW offers a buyback service for high security models up to seven years old, which are inspected then resold to potential customers worldwide. A training course is also offered to owners and chauffeurs, and teaches car control in case of emergency situations.{{clear right}}
= Hydrogen 7 (E68) =
{{main article|BMW Hydrogen 7}}
The BMW Hydrogen 7 is a limited production hydrogen-fueled model. It uses a modified version of the 760Li's N73 V12 engine, producing {{convert|191|kW|bhp|0|abbr=on}}. Claimed fuel economy is {{convert|50|L/100 km|mpgus|1|abbr=on}} and the hydrogen is stored as a liquid in an insulated {{convert|170|litre|gal|0|abbr=on}} tank. Only 100 cars were made, which were leased to high-profile customers, in order to promote the use of hydrogen vehicles.
Alpina B7
{{main|Alpina B7 (E65)}}
File:2007 BMW Alpina B7 E66 Sedan.jpg
The Alpina B7 prototype was introduced to the public at the 2003 Geneva Motor Show in March, and the production version was later unveiled at the 2003 Frankfurt Motor Show. Production began in February 2004,{{cite web|url=http://www.alpina-automobiles.com/en/product-world/model-history/bmw-7-series/bmw-7-series-e6566/|title=ALPINA Automobiles based on BMW 7 Series- E66|website=alpina-automobiles.com|access-date=11 June 2017}} and was built in the Dingolfing BMW plant alongside the facelift model - E66.
The Alpina B7 uses a supercharged version of the 4.4-litre V8 found in the 745i, and was the first Alpina model to feature a supercharged engine.{{cite web|url=http://www.alpina-automobiles.com/en/alpina/milestones/|title=Milestones: ALPINA Automobiles|website=alpina-automobiles.com|access-date=11 June 2017}}
Exterior changes include a rear spoiler{{cite web|title=2003-2008 Alpina B7|url=http://www.ultimatecarpage.com/car/1730/Alpina-B7.html|website=ultimatecarpage.com|access-date=11 June 2017}} and 21-inch traditional Alpina multi-spoke style wheels. Interior changes include sports seats, an Alpina instrument cluster, a three spoke steering wheel with shift buttons, and a silver plated production plaque.
A total of 1114 cars were produced,{{citation needed|date=December 2020}} including 803 cars for North America.
Yearly changes
= 2003 =
- iDrive updates including faster processor, addition of "menu" and "customisable" buttons and maps switching to DVD format.
= 2005 facelift=
In March 2005, the facelift (also known as "LCI") models began production. The major changes were:
- Revised styling for front and rear bodywork, headlights, tail-lights, and a less pronounced trunk lid to address the criticisms of the pre-facelift design.{{cite web|title=Top Five LCI Updates|url=http://www.bmwblog.com/2015/09/28/top-five-lci-updates/|website=bmwblog.com|date=28 September 2015|access-date=17 June 2017}} BMW offered "conversion kits" that could be purchased by existing owners to apply these exterior changes to pre-facelift cars.{{cite web|title=Participant's Manual - E65/E66 Model Redesign|url=http://share.qclt.com/bmw%E8%B5%84%E6%96%99/ICT/English/Participant_manual/mfp-tnu_e65_mu_en.pdf|website=share.qclt.com| access-date=17 June 2017}}
- iDrive updates including a simplified interface, clearer graphics, and the iDrive controller now having a leather top surface.{{cite web|title=2006 BMW 7 Series - Sedan 4D 750i|url=http://www.nadaguides.com/Cars/2006/BMW/7-Series/Sedan-4D-750i/Expert-Reviews/5200|website=nadaguides.com|access-date=17 June 2017}}
- Petrol V8 engines increased in displacement, resulting in the 735i model being replaced by the 740i and the 745i being replaced by the 750i. 745d model power increased from 220 kW to 242 kW.
- Rear track width increased by {{convert|14|mm|in|2|abbr=on}}.{{cite web|title=2006 BMW 7-Series|url=http://www.thecarconnection.com/review/1006933_preview-2006-bmw-750i|website=thecarconnection.com|access-date=17 June 2017|archive-date=18 June 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170618030000/http://www.thecarconnection.com/review/1006933_preview-2006-bmw-750i|url-status=dead}}
- Adaptive cruise control upgraded to ACC II.
File:BMW 745i 2 -- 04-22-2010.jpg|Pre-facelift front
File:BMW E65 rear 20080121.jpg|Pre-facelift rear
File:BMW 730d (E65) Facelift front 20100718.jpg|Post-facelift front
File:BMW 730d (E65) Facelift rear 20100718.jpg|Post-facelift rear
= Late 2005 =
In late 2005, night vision (BMW night vision) became available.{{cite web|title=BMW Ad - 7 Series with Night Vision|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_C5RVtcR0Y4 |archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/varchive/youtube/20211222/_C5RVtcR0Y4 |archive-date=2021-12-22 |url-status=live|via=YouTube|access-date=17 June 2017}}{{cbignore}} The system uses passive infrared sensors{{cite web|title=BMW incorporates thermal imaging cameras in its cars|url=http://www.flir.com/uploadedFiles/CS_EMEA/Application_Stories/Media/Downloads/BMW_A_EN.pdf|website=flir.com|access-date=17 June 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170830065452/http://www.flir.com/uploadedFiles/CS_EMEA/Application_Stories/Media/Downloads/BMW_A_EN.pdf|archive-date=30 August 2017|url-status=dead}} and has a claimed range of {{convert|300|m|abbr=on}}.{{cite web|url=https://www.press.bmwgroup.com/united-kingdom/pressDetail.html?title=bmw-announces-night-vision-and-high-beam-assistant&outputChannelId=8&id=T0013219EN_GB&left_menu_item=node__4308|title=BMW announces Night Vision and High-Beam Assistant|date=21 July 2005|publisher=BMW Group|access-date=1 July 2015}}
Automatic highbeam headlamps (BMW high-beam assistant) was introduced at the same time, whereby the high beam headlights are automatically activated in dark areas and temporarily deactivated when oncoming traffic is detected.
Production
The E65 was produced at the BMW Group Plant Dingolfing in Germany, with complete knock-down (CKD) assembly for local markets conducted in Thailand (Rayong), Russia (Kaliningrad) and Egypt (6th of October City).{{cite web|title=BMW 7 series to be added to production in Cairo from 2nd half of 2006|url=https://www.press.bmwgroup.com/usa/article/detail/T0017605EN_US/bmw-7-series-to-be-added-to-production-in-cairo-from-2nd-half-of-2006|website=press.bmwgroup.com|access-date=24 March 2018}}
The following are production figures for E65 7 Series models:
| class="wikitable sortable" style="text-align: center;" | |
| Year | Total |
|---|---|
| 2001 | 2,979 |
| 2002 | 50,961 |
| 2003 | 57,899 |
| 2004 | 47,689 |
| 2005 | 50,062 |
| 2006 | 50,227 |
| 2007 | 44,421 |
| 2008 | 38,835 |
| Total: | 343,073 |
References
{{reflist|colwidth=30em}}
{{BMW cars: 2000s–2010s}}
{{commons category|BMW E65}}
{{DEFAULTSORT:BMW 7 Series (E65)}}
Category:Cars introduced in 2001