They did release the V700 and V750 around 10 years ago and they have sold very well, which I guess is the reason for this upgrade. As for the resolution, no, I don't know why they operate with these fictive figures, but several scanner manufacturers do. It's probably a theoretical value of some kind. I expect the V850 to be able to scan to around 3-3,500 dpi. Time will show. That would be enough for me anyway.
The Nikon 9000 ED is nice, but the prices they sell for now...
There are a few other film scanner alternatives (Braun, Plustek etc.), but they are all above $2,000 and the reviews have been mixed to say the least. The Epson is not perfect, but has always been good value and received consistently good reviews. I expect the V850 to sell for $1,000 or thereabout.