The Germans
already have the small i3 hatch and hybrid i8 sports car, but what if the void
between the two was filled with an Model S-fighting, luxury performance sedan?
BMW’s most recent electric sedan concept, the i
Vision Dynamics, previews the styling direction for its upcoming Tesla-fighter
- and oh boy, does it look odd. In taming the concept’s polarizing design, the
double-Edsel grille has been massaged into a wider, less offensive shape. The
shoulder-line now cascades down onto the fenders, then into the lower intake
graphic for an elegant stance.
Unlike the smaller i3, this offering (possibly to be
named i5 or i6?) will have good mileage with blistering performance. Expect it
to mirror the i Vision concept’s range of 373 miles (600 km), with acceleration
down in the low 4-second bracket and a top speed excess of 200 km/h.
The big unknown quantity is what size battery will
be used; however as conjecture has it, three sizes could be offered, with
varying levels of performance and range.
BMW’s biggest challenge will come from the likes of
Porsche’s upcoming Mission E. Offering sleek styling that resembles a Panamera
from the future, the Mission E will provide fast acceleration, great handling
and a dual-motor layout. Where BMW is expected to counteract, is in lounge-room
luxury, autonomous driving technology, battery range and pricing. However, don’t get too excited just yet;
expect a launch of the real deal somewhere near 2021.