There’s still another two years to go
before the BMW i4 is unveiled, but Munich is wasting no time in revealing some
key technical details. The all-electric four-door coupé will arrive after next
year’s iX3 and iNEXT SUVs and, just like those models, will feature BMW’s
fifth-generation eDrive electric powertrain.
With a completely redesigned electric motor,
power electronics, charging unit and high-voltage battery, this highly modular
system provides the i4 – set to be based on the next-generation 4 Series Gran
Coupé – with up to 530 PS. Notably, this high power output comes from
just a single motor at the rear,
rather than the dual motors of the competition.
As such, the i4 is capable of sprinting
from zero to 100 km/h in around 4.0 seconds before hitting a top speed in
excess of 200 km/h. On the flip side, the 80 kWh battery delivers a range of around 600 km on an unspecified cycle,
likely WLTP.
The charging unit is capable of receiving
up to 150 kW, allowing the battery to be charged to around 80% in 35 minutes,
or add 100 km of range in just six minutes. The company says that the modular
powertrain can be adapted for use in a variety of models, including all-wheel
drive variants and plug-in hybrids.
Previous spyshots showed test prototypes
that looked remarkably similar to those of the 4 Series, including the
dashboard design. Expect the finalised version to feature a unique front fascia
with a closed-off version of the massive double kidney grille, along with some
trim and upholstery changes and model-specific displays for the infotainment
and instrument screens.
