BMW is currently working on the next-generation 7 Series, though it is still quite far away from an official reveal. The current 2021 BMW 7 Series is part of the G11/G12 generation that began in 2015, so we expect to see a new model in the coming years. We first spotted the future 7 Series testing back in March 2020, wearing the current model's body panels and some stickers denoting it as a fully electric vehicle. BMW was also seen testing a much more unique looking electric sedan, which is rumored to be called the i7.

CarBuzz has once again spotted the new-generation 7 Series, this time undergoing winter testing. There's another important difference too. BMW was seen with two test vehicles this time, one of which featured clearly visible exhaust ports.

The prototype wearing the black wheels has better-integrated exhaust tips, but our photographers confirmed that both of these models have a combustion engine under the hood. Our previous run-ins with the car have been the all-electric i7 variant, so this is our first tangible evidence that an ICE version is also in development. As for the mule with the silver wheels, those exhaust pipes are enlarged for testing purposes, so they will look much smaller in production guise.

Unfortunately, both models are still heavily camouflaged, so it isn't easy to see what this new model will look like. The headlights and taillights look completely different from anything BMW currently offers, though those could be there to fool us from seeing the final design.

BMW will offer the new 7 Series with a choice of gas, plug-in hybrid, and fully-electric powertrain options. We expect that the inline-six and V8 engines will remain, but there will no longer be a V12 option. The i7 is expected to arrive sporting a pair of electric motors generating 523 horsepower and a 100-kWh battery providing over 300 miles of driving range.

An official reveal is expected sometime in late 2022 or early 2023. It is unclear if the standard 7 Series and the electric i7 will debut simultaneously or separately.