Spotted! BMW 7-Series Out Testing

Once again, we’ve caught a prototype for the 2016 BMW 7-Series, the next generation of the German automaker’s flagship sedan due in late 2015 or early the following year. But the big news is: these photos show a design that has been radically altered from the previous prototypes we’d seen!

While the exterior now looks quite different from the current model, the platform underpinning the car will also be heavily updated. BMW is revolutionizing the way it builds its cars in an effort to converge with increasing environmental consciousness, as well as ever-tightening emissions regulations coming into action across the globe. This means lighter construction, more fuel-efficient engines and some never-before-seen Efficient-Dynamics technologies such as thermoelectric devices for its future cars.

Using construction techniques learned from developing the new i3 and i8 electrified vehicles, the structure of the 2016 BMW 7-Series is likely to incorporate a mix of materials, with carbon fiber used in addition to conventional aluminium and steel. Expect to see lightweight carbon fiber panels used for the roof, hood, and trunk lid. The lighter weight should not only improve economy, but also handling, braking and acceleration.

Standard powertrain options will likely include six-, eight- and twelve-cylinder options, all with direct-injection and turbocharging technologies. Though there have been reports that a V12 may not be included this time around, this is unlikely given the popularity of past V12 models and the fuel-saving improvements coming in the future.

The 2016 BMW 7-Series will also see the introduction of a plug-in hybrid model, possibly developed with technology borrowed from Toyota. For performance fans, expect a new M Performance model fitted with a twin-turbocharged V-8. It appears the M Division isn’t interested in using a full-size sedan for one of its dedicated M cars–and rightly so.

As for technology, expect a myriad of traffic warning systems and convenience features such as self-parking and even some autonomous driving capability. BMW has just announced a partnership with automotive technology supplier Continental to further develop its autonomous car technology, which should debut on this car.

You can also expect the latest in connectivity, which BMW has partnered with Harman to develop. The new 7-Series should offer full WiFi capability, downloadable apps, 3D maps with real-time traffic and weather updates, and increased voice activation.