The World Environment Day 2022 is round the corner and automakers are doing their bit by launching cars that promote green mobility. Adding to that list, German luxury brand BMW has launched the first-ever i4 electric sedan in the country. It becomes the third electric car from the BMW Group to be launched in India after the BMW iX and the Mini Cooper SE. BMW says the i4 is its first purely electric model focused squarely on driving dynamics. The car has come to India as a Completely-built-up unit (CBU) and has been priced at Rs. 69.90 lakh (ex-showroom) for the single feature loaded i4 eDrive40 Sport variant.
DESIGN
The BMW i4 is based on the 4 series sedan but the electric version gets many design elements that makes it look different from the Internal combustion engine car. A highlight is the unique looking radiator grille and the blue ring around BMW badge. Contoured headlights and frozen grey accents also add their flair to the car. The side view is characterised by a long wheelbase, doors with frameless windows, fluid lines of the roof and short overhangs. The rear showcases a sharp vertical rear spoiler and recessed surfaces that strengthen the sporty and wide effect. The L-shaped rear LED lights tell you that this is a car from the BMW family. The optional M aerodynamic kit offers M aerodynamic bumpers, exclusive 18 or 19-inch M light aerodynamic alloy wheels and M elements in high-gloss black. The electric sedan is available in mineral white, black sapphire and skyscraper greycolour schemes.
INTERIOR
The interior of the i4 brings a driver-focused cockpit while the car also gets ambient lighting with six selectable light designs and 3-zone automatic climate control. BMW live cockpit professional includes the freestanding curved display with its connection between a 12.3-inch digital information display behind the steering wheel and a 14.9-inch control display with navigation. Occupants can also operate several functions simply by speaking to the BMW Virtual Assistant. The car also gets wireless charging along with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. A Harman Kardon surround sound system with 17 speakers also does its duty on the car. The rear bench seat folds down with 40/20/40 split to offer many storage options and the car gets 470-litre of luggage compartment which can go up to 1290 litres.
PERFORMANCE
Fifth generation BMW eDrive technology on the i4 features a highly integrated drive unit within a single housing that is powered by an electric motor, single-speed transmission and power electronics. The i4 accelerates from 0 to 100 kmph in 5.7 seconds with an output of 340 hp. The slim (110 mm) and high-voltage lithium-ion battery integrated in the floor has a capacity of 80.7 kWh providing a range of up to 590 kms. BMW says the i4 has longest range than any other electric vehicle in India. With a 205 kW DC charger the car can be charged from 10%-80% in 31 minutes while a 50 kW DC charger will do the same job in 83 minutes. The complimentary 11 kW AC charger that comes with the car will completely charge the car in about 8.25 hrs.
DYNAMICS
Rear wheel drive, 50/50 weight distribution and a low centre of gravity are some key factors which offer superlative balance and responsiveness on the car. This also delivers better traction as well as directional stability in dynamic driving manoeuvres. On the other hand, Air Suspension on the rear axle with automatic self-levelling function ensures comfort and enhances stability on sharp turns. The electric sedan comes with standard 2-year warranty for unlimited kilometres. The batteries are covered by a warranty valid for eight years or up to 1.60 lakh kilometres.
The author is a senior editor at carandbike.com