THE most powerful all-electric BMW model has been unveiled at the Shanghai auto show where the wraps came off the i7 M70 xDrive.

Equipped with an electric motor at both the front and rear axle generating a maximum system output of 660hp and an M-specific chassis, the i7 M70 xDrive delivers a 0 to 62mph acceleration time of 3.7 seconds and a maximum limited to 155mph.

As the flagship to the new BMW 7 Series line up, the i7 M70 has a range of up to 348 miles and from a fast charger 106 miles can be added in just ten minutes.

The car's range can also be extended while on the move by activating a new drive system setting called Max Range which restricts power and top speed while comfort functions are scaled back, allowing range to be increased by some 15 to 25per cent.

The i7 M70 xDrive will cost from £161,000 when it arrives later in 2023 and it follows the BMW i4 M50 - BMW M GmbH's best-selling model worldwide in 2022 - and the BMW iX M60 as the company's third performance model to have an all-electric drive system.

The vehicle's soundtrack's character varies according to the drive setting selected, with a clearly perceptible acoustic distinction between the MyMode Personal and Sport.

BMW says in Sport mode, the spectrum of sound is particularly dominant and powerful.

From a styling perspective the car is fronted by M-specific design features like M exterior mirrors with distinctive twin-stalk design, the BMW kidney grille with M badging, bespoke inlays in the rear bumper and M logos on the front side panels.

Inside, there is an Interaction Bar in the cockpit and an Executive Lounge with optimised reclining function in the rear while the BMW Theatre Screen and Bowers & Wilkins Surround Sound System with optional in-seat exciters turn the rear compartment into an exclusive personal cinema on wheels.

Comfort and safety also feature advanced systems for automated driving and parking. This includes, the Parking Assistant and Manoeuvre Assistant which can now also be controlled remotely using the My BMW App. This allows customers to enter and exit tight parking spaces with greater ease.