[12] In order to produce the E65 7 Series and other future models, the BMW Dingolfing plant was retooled at a cost of approximately €500 million.

[25] It was also BMW's first V8 engine to use variable valve lift (Valvetronic),[26][27] replacing throttle butterflies for added response, efficiency and power.

[29][30] The specific models of transmission used for the E65 are:[31] The E65/E66 was one of the few BMWs to have a column shift lever, as opposed to a stick in the centre console.

Many of the functions such as climate, navigation, seat heating, telephony, and car settings were incorporated into a single system allowing for centralised control.

In March 2003, the maps switched to DVD format,[36] a faster processor was used and a 'Menu' and 'Customisable' button were added below the control knob.

In 2005, dedicated buttons were added to change radio stations or skip tracks[37] and a brighter screen was used for the 8.8" widescreen option.

[46] High security models also feature run flat tyres, with Michelin's PAX system; which allows continuous driving at 80 km/h (50 mph) for approximately 50 km (31 mi), with a puncture.

BMW offers a buyback service for high security models up to seven years old, which are inspected then resold to potential customers worldwide.

A training course is also offered to owners and chauffeurs, and teaches car control in case of emergency situations.

Claimed fuel economy is 50 L/100 km (4.7 mpg‑US) and the hydrogen is stored as a liquid in an insulated 170 L (45 US gal) tank.

[47] Production began in February 2004,[48] and was built in the Dingolfing BMW plant alongside the facelift model - E66.

Interior changes include sports seats, an Alpina instrument cluster, a three spoke steering wheel with shift buttons, and a silver plated production plaque.

[56] The E65 was produced at the BMW Group Plant Dingolfing in Germany, with complete knock-down (CKD) assembly for local markets conducted in Thailand (Rayong), Russia (Kaliningrad) and Egypt (6th of October City).