BMW i4 M50 and i4 eDrive40 electric sedan models set for November 2021 launch [updated]
BMW has revealed more details and images of its i4 range, with the i4 M50 and i4 eDrive40 the first models available for pre-order. You can find a gallery with new images from BMW below. This article will be updated with full details and specifications as soon as we can.
i4 range headlined by i4 M50 with 400 kW (544 PS), 795 Nm (586 lb-ft), 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 3.9 seconds
i4 eDrive 40 offers 250 kW (340 PS), 430 Nm (317 lb-ft), 0 – 100 km/h (62 mph) in 5.7 seconds
83.9 kWh battery pack offers 590 kilometres (367 miles) range in the WLTP cycle
Extensive use of secondary raw materials, natural materials and recycled materials
Northern Hemisphere deliveries to start in Autumn 2021
Performance-oriented electric sedan
BMW is placing a great deal of emphasis on the dynamic and sporty characteristics of the i4 range, and the electric sedan debuts the flexible vehicle architecture that will underpin the Bavarian automaker’s future electric line up.
The suspension is tuned for handling, with a double-joint spring strut front axle and a five-link rear axle. Lift-related dampers and rear-axle air suspension come as standard. BMW’s fifth-generation eDrive technology claims a power density of up to 2.14 kW/kg, resulting in instantaneous power delivery. The i4 M50 sprints to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 3.9 seconds, while the eDrive 40 variant makes the dash in a respectable 5.7 seconds.
There’s an 83.9 kWh lithium-ion battery, offering 590 kilometres (367 miles) of range on the WLTP cycle, and the ability to charge from 10-80% at a 200 kW peak rate in 31 minutes. The i4 offers up to 11kW on an AC 3-phase charger.
BMW claims 164 kilometres (102 miles) can be added to the i4 eDrive40 in 10 minutes, and 140 kilometres (87 miles) to the i4 M50 in the same time.
Both models come with four-piston fixed front brake calipers and single-piston floating rear calipers. All discs are ventilated.
Exterior Styling
The i4 continues the large kidney grille theme that debuted on the production 4-series models, but with a closed-in front end to aid aerodynamics. The i4 achieves a drag coefficient figure of 0.24 Cd, making it slightly less slippery than the Tesla Model 3 (0.21 Cd) and Polestar 2 (0.23 Cd).
The i4 has a lot of familiar elements about it: the GranCoupe-style roofline, the broad rear lights, and the signature Hofmeister kink. The i4 is 4,783mm long, 1,852mm wide 1,448 high, and sports a 2,856mm wheelbase. That’s pretty close to Tesla’s Model 3 and the Polestar 2, though the BMW does sit lower.
European specifications offer 17” alloy wheels on the eDrive 40 model, and 18” alloy wheels of the M50 model. These will likely be shod in low rolling-resistance rubber.
The i4 M50 sports a number of signature BMW design elements. Image: BMW
Sport meets luxury on the inside, with sustainable materials
Any current BMW owner would feel comfortable stepping into the i4. The usual sports seats and sports steering wheel are present, as are the BMW iDrive controller and angled-towards-the-drive centre console.
BMW’s Operating System 8 graces the control system, and BMW promises remote software upgrades will be available to keep improving the car’s functions. There’s a 12.3-inch instrument cluster, and a 14.9 inch control display for driver and passenger. Vernasca leather and BMW Individual leather are available, as well as an artificial Sensatec option.
BMW claims over 40 driver assistance functions are available including Active Cruise Control with automatic Speed Limit Assist, route monitoring function, and reaction to traffic lights (in Germany).
BMW says that its battery cells are manufactured using 100 percent green energy, and the company has also achieved controlled, sustainable extraction of cobalt and lithium for the batteries. Recycled and secondary raw materials are used to minimise the virgin plastics needed in the car.
The i4 is expected to launch in November 2021 to European customers. It will land in Australia in early 2022 according to BMW Australia, and can already be preordered via BMW’s website.