BMW ALPINA is apparently preparing the return of the B7. Spy shots show prototypes with a newly developed V8 engine as well as an electric variant that appears to be in development in parallel. Both vehicles were spotted during test operations near the Nürburgring, the place where the brand has been tuning its vehicles for decades.
The combustion prototype stands out due to four exhaust pipes, which suggests a V8 under the hood. The electric prototype, on the other hand, shows no visible exhaust tailpipes and carries a license plate ending in the letter »E«. Apart from that, both test cars look almost identical. They resemble a regular 7 Series rather than a concept-design study. A visible clue is the amber-colored daytime running lights. It remains unclear whether the prototypes already wear the final production bodywork. The camouflage leaves this question open.
It is noticeable that neither car appears to have a stretched wheelbase. ALPINA thus distinguishes itself from Mercedes-Maybach, whose S-Class offers a considerably longer wheelbase. The standard G70 has 3,215 millimeters, the Maybach S-Class 3,396 millimeters. The difference of roughly 180 millimeters illustrates how differently both manufacturers interpret the luxury sedan in the upper segment. ALPINA apparently relies on the basic architecture of the 7 Series and forgoes an extension for more rear-seat space.
Insiders also speak of a six-cylinder B58 variant that is also being considered. The B58 is the well-known inline six-cylinder from the BMW lineup, which would thus be a possible entry-level engine. A future ALPINA based on the G69 X7 is also conceivable, which could be offered with six-cylinder, eight-cylinder and electric powertrains. This would expand the brand's range to a broader spectrum of drivetrains and vehicle types.
Within the group strategy, ALPINA is to be positioned above the regular BMW models but below Rolls-Royce. The brand thus moves in a segment where it competes directly with Mercedes-Maybach and Bentley. Both competitors rely on high-priced, handcrafted luxury vehicles with a strong emphasis on individualization. Whether ALPINA can build on this position with the new models will become clear after market launch. Official confirmation from BMW regarding powertrain, market launch or pricing is not yet available.