The automotive world is undergoing a transformation, and the BMW i4 is at the forefront of this electric revolution. As BMW’s first all-electric Gran Coupe, the i4 combines the brand’s renowned performance and luxury with sustainable, zero-emission driving. Building on the success of the BMW i3 and the BMW i8, the i4 represents the next step in BMW’s electrification strategy, offering both an exhilarating driving experience and cutting-edge technology in a sleek and stylish package.
With the BMW i4, BMW sets a new standard for electric vehicles (EVs) by merging traditional sports sedan qualities with electric efficiency. Whether you’re drawn to the i4’s performance, its innovative tech, or its eco-friendly credentials, this electric Gran Coupe is poised to reshape how we think about driving.
Performance: Electrifying Power and Precision
One of the key strengths of the BMW i4 is its thrilling performance. This electric vehicle is engineered to deliver a truly dynamic driving experience that BMW enthusiasts expect, with instant torque and precise handling.
- The base model, the BMW i4 eDrive40, is powered by a single electric motor that drives the rear wheels, producing 335 horsepower and 317 lb-ft of torque. This electric motor allows the i4 to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just 5.7 seconds, providing impressive speed and responsiveness.
- The performance-focused BMW i4 M50 takes things to the next level. With dual electric motors (one on each axle), the i4 M50 produces a combined 536 horsepower and 586 lb-ft of torque. This powerhouse enables the i4 M50 to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.7 seconds, making it one of the fastest electric sedans on the market. The i4 M50 combines the best of BMW’s M-performance DNA with the efficiency of electric power, delivering both heart-pounding acceleration and incredible driving dynamics.
The electric motors in the i4 are paired with an advanced 8-speed automatic transmission, ensuring smooth and seamless power delivery. The car’s low center of gravity, thanks to the placement of the battery pack, contributes to its agile handling, offering a performance experience that feels more like a sport sedan than a traditional EV.
Range and Efficiency: Long-Distance Travel Without Compromise
The BMW i4 offers impressive range figures, making it suitable for both daily commutes and longer road trips.
- The i4 eDrive40 delivers an estimated range of up to 300 miles on a single charge, based on EPA estimates. This is more than enough for most drivers, and it provides peace of mind on longer drives.
- The i4 M50, with its additional power and performance capabilities, offers an estimated range of up to 270 miles on a single charge. While the performance-oriented M50 sacrifices a slight amount of range compared to the eDrive40, it still provides ample driving distance for daily use and long road trips.
The i4 supports ultra-fast DC fast charging, allowing the battery to recharge from 10% to 80% in around 30 minutes. At home, you can charge the i4 using a Level 2 charger, which will fully recharge the battery overnight.
Exterior Design: A Bold, Modern Statement
The BMW i4 carries a sleek, aerodynamic design that blends luxury with performance. The car features clean, sculpted lines that enhance its dynamic presence while improving its efficiency. The front end is dominated by BMW’s iconic kidney grilles, which are slightly reinterpreted for the electric model with closed-off slats, reflecting the i4’s electric powertrain.
The slim, adaptive LED headlights and sharp body creases contribute to the i4’s sporty look, while its wide stance and sculpted side panels give the car a confident, muscular appearance. The roofline flows seamlessly into the rear, with a subtle rear spoiler adding a touch of performance flair.
The i4’s aerodynamics are carefully crafted to improve efficiency, with features like active grille shutters and smooth underbody panels designed to minimize drag and maximize range. The car’s 19-inch and 20-inch wheels are designed to be both stylish and functional, further enhancing the car’s performance and efficiency.
Interior: A Fusion of Luxury and Technology
Step inside the BMW i4, and you’re greeted with a modern, minimalist interior that combines luxury and cutting-edge technology. The cabin features high-quality materials, including available Dakota leather upholstery, wood trim, and aluminum accents, which create a premium and sophisticated environment.
The i4’s Live Cockpit Plus system features a curved, high-resolution display that integrates the 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a 14.9-inch touchscreen. The infotainment system runs on BMW’s iDrive 8 platform, offering intuitive controls, a fast interface, and access to a wide array of connectivity features. The system supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, allowing you to seamlessly integrate your smartphone for navigation, entertainment, and communication.
For additional convenience, the i4 comes with available Gesture Control, allowing you to adjust the volume, accept calls, and control other features with simple hand movements.
The front seats of the i4 are both power-adjustable and heated, with available ventilation and massage features for a truly luxurious driving experience. The rear seats are spacious, offering plenty of legroom and headroom for adult passengers. The i4’s trunk space is generous for an electric vehicle, offering 12 cubic feet of cargo room, with additional space available by folding down the rear seats.
Technology: Cutting-Edge Features for a Smarter Drive
The BMW i4 is equipped with an array of advanced technology features designed to enhance the driving experience, safety, and convenience.
- Driver Assistance Features: Standard driver assistance features include blind-spot monitoring, lane-departure warning, forward-collision warning, and automatic emergency braking. Available options include adaptive cruise control, parking sensors, and surround-view cameras.
- ConnectedDrive Services: The i4 comes with BMW ConnectedDrive services, which allow you to connect your vehicle to your smartphone for remote monitoring and control. You can check the battery charge, locate charging stations, and even pre-condition the cabin for comfort before getting in.
- Autonomous Driving Capabilities: BMW is steadily working toward fully autonomous driving technology, and the i4 is built with the hardware necessary to support future updates. The i4 is equipped with a suite of sensors, including cameras, radar, and ultrasonic sensors, to enhance its driver assistance capabilities and provide a safer, more convenient driving experience.
Sustainability: Environmentally Friendly Driving Without Compromise
The BMW i4 is part of BMW’s broader commitment to sustainability and environmental responsibility. As a fully electric vehicle, the i4 produces zero emissions, making it an eco-friendly option for those looking to reduce their carbon footprint.
BMW has taken a sustainable approach to the production of the i4 as well. The car’s battery cells are produced using renewable energy, and the company has committed to reducing the carbon footprint of the manufacturing process. The i4 is also recyclable, with materials like aluminum and steel being used in its construction, helping to minimize the environmental impact at the end of the vehicle’s lifecycle.
Driving Dynamics: True BMW Performance
True to its BMW roots, the i4 delivers a driving experience that is both engaging and refined. The car features BMW’s signature rear-wheel-drive architecture (on the eDrive40) and all-wheel drive (on the M50), ensuring exceptional handling and performance. The i4’s adaptive suspension system (available on higher trims) provides a perfect balance between comfort and agility, allowing you to switch between a smooth ride for everyday driving and a more dynamic setup for spirited driving.
The instant torque from the electric motors provides immediate acceleration, making the i4 feel quick and responsive on the road. Whether you’re navigating tight corners or cruising on the highway, the i4 delivers a performance that is both precise and exhilarating.
Conclusion: The Future of Electric Driving
The BMW i4 represents the future of electric performance, blending BMW’s legendary driving dynamics with the sustainability and innovation of an electric powertrain. With its thrilling acceleration, impressive range, luxurious interior, and cutting-edge technology, the i4 sets a new benchmark for electric vehicles.
If you’re seeking a performance-oriented EV that doesn’t compromise on luxury or driving pleasure, the BMW i4 is the ultimate choice. It embodies everything BMW stands for—exhilarating driving performance, superior luxury, and forward-thinking technology—now in an all-electric form. The i4 is not just the car of the future; it’s here today, and it’s ready to redefine what electric driving can be.
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