BMW is putting the finishing touches on the i4, but new details are starting to emerge about the upcoming electric vehicle. According to BMW Blog, the entry-level model will be called the i435 and it will have rear-wheel drive as well as an output of approximately 280 hp. Moving up the trim ladder is the i440, which will also be rear-wheel drive. However, it will reportedly feature an upgraded electric motor that produces around 330 hp. The report also mentions a possible boost function, which would temporarily increase the output for a few seconds like on the Audi E-Tron.
Lastly, they claim there will be a
range-topping model dubbed the i4 M50. Unlike the two other variants, this
version will have two electric motors and all-wheel drive. This will reportedly
enable the model to have a combined output of between 450-460 hp.
Besides the upgraded powertrain, the i4
M50 is said to be distinguished by a more aggressive front fascia, larger
wheels and a rear spoiler. The model is also said to have beefier brakes and a
revised interior some with “M touches.” However, the report should be taken
with a grain of salt as the company has previously said the “electric motor
developed for the i4 delivers a maximum output of around 523 hp.” That’s significantly more than the 450-460 hp mentioned
by BMW Blog, but it’s possible the higher number could come from the rumored
boost function.
Regardless, the automaker has said the i4
will be able to accelerate from 0-100 km/h in approximately four
seconds and hit a top speed in excess of 200 km/h. BMW has also
revealed that the car will have an 80 kWh battery pack which allows for a range
of around 600 km.
