Following the successful launch of the fourth BMW 7 Series generation in 2001, the models with 6 and 8-cylinder diesel engines followed in autumn 2002. From January 2003, the BMW 760i was launched as the top model with a new 12-cylinder engine. The BMW 760Li was technically practically identical to the BMW 760i apart from a 14 cm longer body. The V 12 engine was the first in the world to use the combination of BMW VALVETRONIC and petrol direct injection to increase power and torque. Together with the fully variable adjustment of the VALVETRONIC intake valve lift, this technology helped to significantly reduce fuel consumption. The naturally aspirated engine achieved a maximum torque of 600 Nm and a maximum output of 445 hp.