The BMW i4 marks a significant leap into the electric vehicle landscape for BMW, bringing all-electric mobility to the very core of the brand. Launching in autumn 2021, this model is not just another EV; it’s the first electric BMW meticulously engineered to prioritize driving dynamics, a hallmark of the brand. The i4 delivers locally emission-free driving pleasure without compromising on the premium quality and bespoke individualization that BMW customers expect. For the first time, the traditional midsize segment experiences the fusion of BMW’s legendary sporting DNA, a compelling long-distance range, and the sophisticated design and practicality of a four-door Gran Coupé.
Unveiling the BMW i4 Model Range: eDrive40 and the Performance-Oriented M50
Hitting the market in November 2021, the BMW i4 debuted with two distinct model variants to cater to diverse driving preferences. The BMW i4 M50 stands out as the first purely electric performance vehicle crafted by BMW M GmbH. This all-wheel-drive powerhouse boasts an impressive 400 kW/544 hp, delivering exhilarating performance while maintaining a range of up to 521 kilometers in the WLTP cycle (electric power consumption combined: 22.5-18.0 kWh/100 km in the WLTP cycle; CO2 emissions of 0 g/km).
For those seeking a blend of classic BMW driving feel and electric efficiency, the BMW i4 eDrive40 offers a compelling rear-wheel-drive experience. Packing 250 kW/340 hp, the i4 eDrive40 achieves a remarkable range of up to 590 kilometers in the WLTP cycle (electric power consumption combined: 19.1 – 16.1 kWh/100 km in the WLTP cycle; CO2 emissions von 0 g/km). Both models underscore BMW’s commitment to providing electric vehicles that don’t just offer eco-consciousness but also genuine driving excitement.
Driving Dynamics: The Heart of the BMW i4 Experience
BMW’s decades of expertise in crafting exceptionally sporty premium vehicles are fully realized in the i4. The integrated application of all powertrain and chassis components creates a level of design coherence that sets it apart from competitors. Beyond rapid straight-line acceleration, the BMW i4 delivers familiar BMW dynamic driving abilities coupled with exceptional long-distance comfort. This hallmark BMW approach expertly balances sportiness and long-range capability through efficient drive system technology and intelligent lightweight design. This ensures smile-inducing dynamics and an extended range without resorting to disproportionately large and heavy batteries, maintaining the agile and responsive feel BMW is known for.
Cutting-Edge Technology and Engineering Underpinning the i4
The BMW i4 is built upon a flexible vehicle architecture specifically designed for a purely electric drive system from the ground up. This foundation incorporates a long wheelbase and wide tracks, contributing to its confident stance and handling prowess. The body structure is weight-minimized yet exceptionally stiff, enhancing both agility and safety. Model-specific torsion struts, an aluminum shear panel, and a front axle subframe are fixedly connected with the high-voltage battery casing, further increasing structural rigidity. Furthermore, optimized aerodynamics, achieving a Cd of just 0.24 in the best-case scenario, contribute to efficiency and range.
The newly designed chassis technology is finely tuned to the vehicle concept, featuring a double-joint spring strut front axle and a five-link rear axle. Lift-related dampers and rear-axle air suspension come as standard, ensuring a refined and controlled ride. Near-actuator wheel slip limitation, now for the first time paired with electric all-wheel drive in the i4 M50, delivers outstanding traction and directional stability even during extremely dynamic driving maneuvers. The BMW i4 M50 further elevates the driving experience with model-specific adaptive M suspension, variable sport steering, an M Sport braking system, and optional M light-alloy wheels, available up to 20-inch.
At the core of the BMW i4 lies the fifth-generation BMW eDrive technology. This highly integrated unit combines the electric motor, power electronics, and transmission into a single, efficient component. Utilizing the latest battery cell technology, the electric motors operate on the principle of an electrically excited synchronous unit, boasting a high power density of up to 2.14 kW/kg. This design ensures instantaneous power delivery that is sustained across a broad rev band, providing consistent and responsive performance.
The BMW i4 M50 features a Sport Boost function, unleashing ultra-dynamic power delivery from its two electric motors, achieving a peak output and a maximum system torque of 795 Nm (586 lb-ft). This translates to blistering acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in just 3.9 seconds. The BMW i4 eDrive40 is no slouch either, delivering a maximum system torque of 430 Nm (317 lb-ft) and accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in a swift 5.7 seconds.
Adding to the sensory experience, model-specific drive sounds provide authentic feedback to accelerator movement and speed. The BMW i4 M50 features an especially energy-charged soundtrack, while the optional BMW IconicSounds Electric allows for integration of new sound variations created in collaboration with renowned film music composer Hans Zimmer, enhancing the emotional connection with the electric driving experience.
Battery Technology, Charging, and Efficiency
The BMW i4 is equipped with a slim high-voltage battery, specifically designed for this model and positioned low down in the vehicle floor. With an extremely low cell height of just 110 millimeters, this battery placement contributes to an exceptionally low vehicle center of gravity, up to 53 millimeters lower than in the BMW 3 Series Sedan. The gross energy content of the battery is 83.9 kWh, enabling the impressive ranges of both i4 models.
Efficiency is further enhanced through adaptive or individually adjustable recuperation of braking energy. This system not only increases range but also enables a one-pedal driving experience, along with the use of a coasting function depending on driving needs and traffic conditions. An integral heating and cooling system with a heat pump function efficiently manages the temperature of the interior, high-voltage battery, and drive system. Anticipatory thermal management for the high-voltage battery optimizes charging efficiency, ensuring quicker charging times and prolonged battery life.
The Combined Charging Unit in the BMW i4 allows for the use of DC fast-charging stations with an output of up to 205 kW. At stations of this caliber, the range can be increased by as much as 164 kilometers / 102 miles for the BMW i4 eDrive40 and 140 kilometers / 87 miles for the BMW i4 M50 within just 10 minutes. BMW Charging further enhances the charging experience with special rates at public charging stations and IONITY high-power charging stations, making electric mobility more accessible and convenient.
Design and Interior: Gran Coupé Elegance and Modern Functionality
The BMW i4 embodies a new standard for sustainable sportiness, comfort, and everyday usability within the premium midsize segment. Its Gran Coupé vehicle concept seamlessly merges sedan-level ride comfort with modern functionality. The design is elegantly sporty, characterized by stretched coupé proportions, a flowing roofline, four doors with frameless windows, and a practical large tailgate.
The front end features a largely blanked-off design and the distinctive BMW kidney grille, which cleverly integrates camera, ultrasonic, and radar sensors discreetly within its structure. Slim headlights, optionally available with BMW Laserlight, further accentuate the sleek front fascia. Color accents in BMW i Blue subtly highlight its electric nature. The BMW i4 eDrive40 is offered in M Sport specification, while the BMW i4 M50 showcases bespoke performance-led design cues, visually differentiating the models. For further personalization, an M Carbon exterior package and M Performance Parts are available from launch.
Inside, the BMW i4 offers a luxurious premium ambience and a versatile interior space. Acoustic glazing, pre-heating and pre-conditioning, Sport seats, and a sports steering wheel are included as standard. The center console features a modern-design control panel housing the gear selector lever, BMW Controller, and function keys. The large tailgate, standard with an electric opening and closing mechanism, reveals a generous load compartment with a capacity of 470 liters, expandable up to a maximum of 1,290 liters. An electrically extendable and retractable trailer tow hitch is optional, with a permissible trailer load of 1,600 kilograms, further enhancing the practicality of the i4.
Reflecting BMW’s commitment to individualization, a wide array of options are available to tailor the i4 to personal preferences. These include seat heating and ventilation, Vernasca leather trim and BMW Individual leather trim variants, instrument panel in Sensatec and leather variants, the M Sport package Pro, ambient lighting, a Harman Kardon Surround Sound System, and a large glass slide/tilt sunroof, elevating both driving pleasure and passenger comfort.
The Revolutionary BMW iDrive System
The BMW i4 marks the premiere of the new generation BMW iDrive control/operation system. This system is heavily focused on the touchscreen functionality of the new BMW Curved Display and natural spoken dialogue via the extensively upgraded BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant. The fully digital screen grouping combines a 12.3-inch information display and a 14.9-inch control display into a single, seamless unit. Advanced graphics and powerful software, based on BMW Operating System 8, deliver a fluid and intuitive user experience.
Automatic climate control features a new control approach utilizing the touchscreen display and an integrated nanofiber filter, enhancing cabin air quality. Intelligently coordinated temperature control, using airflow management, seat heating, and steering wheel heating, maximizes comfort and efficiency. Remote Software Upgrades ensure the vehicle software is always up-to-date with the latest features and improvements. Navigation is powered by the cloud-based BMW Maps system, offering route planning that includes mid-journey stops for charging via Connected Charging. Extensive smartphone integration, including Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, is standard. Personalization is further enhanced through BMW ID and the My BMW App, while integration of personal mobile accounts into the car is facilitated via Personal eSIM. Fast data transmission is ensured through 5G connectivity, keeping the i4 seamlessly connected.
Advanced Driver Assistance for Enhanced Safety and Convenience
The BMW i4 offers a comprehensive suite of around 40 driver assistance functions. Front-collision warning, Speed Limit Info, and Lane Departure Warning are fitted as standard, enhancing everyday safety. Optional systems include Active Cruise Control with automatic Speed Limit Assist, route monitoring function, and (in Germany) reaction to traffic lights, further automating driving tasks. The available Driving Assistant Professional includes Steering and Lane Control Assistant for advanced semi-autonomous driving capabilities. Park Distance Control and a Reversing Assist Camera are standard, while the optional Parking Assistant with Reversing Assistant and Parking Assistant Plus, featuring Surround View and Remote 3D View, simplify parking and maneuvering in tight spaces.
Sustainability: A Core Principle of the BMW i4
Sustainability is a central focus for the BMW i4, reflected in the responsible use of resources throughout the entire value chain and a commitment to minimizing the CO2 footprint across the full product lifecycle. Vehicle production takes place at BMW Group Plant Munich, while battery cells are manufactured using 100-percent green energy. The i4 also incorporates an extensive use of secondary raw materials, natural materials, and recycled materials, minimizing environmental impact. A specific design principle for the electric motors allows for the avoidance of rare earth metals, further enhancing sustainability. BMW is also committed to controlled, transparent, and sustainable extraction of cobalt and lithium for the high-voltage battery, ensuring ethical and responsible sourcing of critical materials.
The BMW i4 emerges as a groundbreaking vehicle, setting a new benchmark for electric vehicles in the premium midsize segment by seamlessly blending BMW’s renowned driving dynamics with cutting-edge electric technology, luxurious comfort, and a strong commitment to sustainability.
