The BMW i5 electric sedan is the latest addition to the German automaker’s electric lineup and promises to be a game-changer in the luxury segment. The i5 is a four-door sedan that combines the performance, design, and technology of BMW with the efficiency and sustainability of electric power. It is expected to hit the market in 2024 and compete directly with the Tesla Model S, Mercedes-Benz EQS and other premium electric vehicles.
What Makes the BMW i5 Special?
The 2024 BMW i5 electric sedan is not just another electric car. It is a statement of BMW’s vision for the future of mobility, showcasing some of the most advanced features and innovations the brand offers. Here are some of the highlights of the i5:
- Powerful and efficient drivetrain. The i5 will be available in two variants: the BMW i5 eDrive40 and the BMW i5 M60. The eDrive40 will have a single electric motor that delivers 335 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque, while the M60 will have a dual-motor setup that boosts the output to 536 horsepower and 586 pound-feet of torque. Both models will have an all-wheel-drive system and an automatic transmission with a single-speed fixed ratio. The BMW i5 eDrive40 will have an estimated range of 270 to 295 miles, while the BMW i5 M60 will have an estimated range of 240 to 256 miles. The battery capacity will be up to 84.3 kWh, and it will support fast charging at up to 200 kW.
- Stunning and futuristic design. The i5 will have a sleek and aerodynamic silhouette that reflects its electric nature. The front end will feature a large kidney grille that is illuminated and serves as an air intake for cooling the battery. The headlights will have a slim and angular shape that gives the car a sharp look. The side profile will have a coupe-like roofline that flows into a short rear deck. The rear end will have a full-width LED taillight bar that connects the L-shaped taillights. The i5 will also have a glass roof that extends from the windshield to the rear window, creating a spacious and airy cabin.
- Luxurious and high-tech interior. The i5 will have a spacious, comfortable cabin accommodating five passengers. The seats will be upholstered in premium leather and have multiple adjustments, heating, ventilation, and massage functions. The dashboard will have a minimalist and modern design, with a large curved display that combines the digital instrument cluster and the infotainment system. The display will be controlled by touch, voice, gesture, or a rotary knob on the center console. The i5 will also have a glass interaction bar with ambient lighting that reacts to touch and creates a soothing atmosphere. The i5 will also feature a Harman Kardon sound system, wireless charging, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a Wi-Fi hotspot.
- Advanced and innovative features. The i5 will have some of the most cutting-edge features and technologies that BMW has to offer. Some of these include:
- Plug & Charge function. This feature allows the i5 to authenticate and initiate charging sessions at Electrify America stations without user input or payment. The i5 owners will also get 30 minutes of complimentary charging per session.
- My Modes function. This feature allows the driver to customize various aspects of the car, such as driving dynamics, sound design, ambient lighting, climate control, and display settings. There are six predefined modes: Personal, Sport, Efficient, Expressive, Relax, and Digital Art. Each mode creates a different mood and ambiance for the driver and passengers.
- Sound design by Hans Zimmer. This feature creates an artificial sound for the i5 that simulates and transcends the sound of an engine. The sound adapts to the driving situation in real time, creating an immersive and emotional experience for the driver.
- Highway Assistant function. This feature enables semi-autonomous driving at speeds up to 85 mph on controlled-access highways. The system uses cameras, radar, lidar, GPS, and map data to steer, accelerate, brake, change lanes, and maintain distance from other vehicles. The driver must stay attentive and take over if needed.