BMW is preparing to update its flagship electric sedan, the i7, with significant improvements in battery technology and driving range. To achieve this, the German automaker has partnered with Rimac, a Croatian company known for its advanced electric vehicle technologies. The collaboration aims to combine BMW’s latest lithium-ion cell design with Rimac’s cutting-edge battery module system.
The upcoming version of the BMW i7 will feature a battery pack that merges BMW’s Gen6 cylindrical lithium-ion cells, developed specifically for the Neue Klasse series of electric vehicles, with Rimac’s Gen5 module-based technology. BMW claims that these new Gen6 cells offer a 20% higher volumetric energy density compared to previous prismatic cells, which should translate into improved range and charging capabilities.
Mate Rimac, founder and president of Rimac Group, highlighted that the joint battery system will bring notable enhancements in energy storage, driving range, and charging speed. Currently, the 2026 BMW i7 provides a driving range between 267 and 314 miles depending on the configuration. The i7 M70 xDrive with larger 20-inch wheels offers the lower range figure, while the eDrive50 model on smaller 19-inch wheels achieves the maximum distance.
Battery production for this new system will take place at Rimac’s recently established facility near Zagreb, Croatia. This expansive campus was built specifically to manufacture batteries and related components for various car manufacturers. After production, the battery packs will be shipped to BMW’s assembly plant in Dingolfing, Germany, where the i7 is assembled.
While further details about the updated i7 remain limited at this time, BMW plans to officially reveal the refreshed sedan at the Beijing Auto Show scheduled for April 22, 2026. The update to the i7 also suggests that BMW’s traditional 7 Series gasoline-powered models may receive a concurrent refresh.
This partnership marks an important step in BMW’s strategy to advance electric vehicle technology by leveraging specialized expertise from innovative companies like Rimac. As automakers continue to compete in the rapidly evolving EV market, collaborations such as this are essential for delivering vehicles with better performance and longer driving ranges.
Overall, BMW’s work with Rimac signals a focused effort to enhance battery efficiency and vehicle capabilities in its luxury electric lineup. The integration of German engineering and Croatian innovation could set new standards for future electric vehicles from BMW.
