The ALPINA B7 Bi-Turbo is an evolution of the latest BMW 7-Series, which provides a state-of-the-art, high-technology development platform. To reduce weight, for example, the 7-Series BMW’s A-, B- and C-pillars, the transmission tunnel and the windscreen header are all made from carbon fibre composite.
B7 Bi-Turbos destined for the UK will be Long Wheelbase cars with air suspension (allowing ride height to be automatically reduced by 20 mm in ALPINA Sport+ Mode), Active Roll Stabilisation (with new light weight, high-speed electro mechanical actuation), and ALPINA-tuned active rear steering, which turns the rear wheels a maximum of three degrees the opposite way to the front wheels at low speeds and the same way at higher speeds. At the front, there is a new calibration for the variable ratio electric steering and increased wheel camber to provide a more direct turn-in when cornering.
ALPINA’s chassis electronics specialists have also developed their own calibrations for the Dynamic Traction Control system to ensure that the characteristics of the engine and transmission can be fully exploited for maximum driver enjoyment. At the touch of a button, this remarkable vehicle sharpens to provide the agility and lateral dynamics normally associated with a more focused sports car, while in Comfort Mode it retains the ride quality of a luxury saloon.
“One of the reasons why ALPINA’s are often described as having a ‘magical’ blend of ride quality, handling and feel is that there is just one specification of each model, which means everything from the tyres to the electronics can be optimised to work in perfect harmony,” explains Lott.
To keep both sprung and unsprung mass down, further enhancing driving dynamics and ride comfort on the UK’s uniquely demanding roads, the UK-specification ALPINA B7 Bi-Turbo will be available only with Rear Wheel Drive. In this specification, the new ALPINA B7 Bi-Turbo will accelerate to 60 mph in just 4.0 seconds.
Wheels are 20” ALPINA Classic 20 spoke in a new design made from high-strength, forged aluminium with visible wheel bolts and no centre hub covers. 21” wheels are optional. Aerodynamics have been optimised in BMW’s wind tunnel and are enhanced by unique ALPINA front and rear spoilers that also increase airflow through the uprated cooling system. The bespoke look is further enhanced by a four-outlet, light weight stainless steel ALPINA sports exhaust system that has been tuned to reduce back pressure as well as providing a choice of two driver-selectable, bass-focused sounds.
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