The all-new BMW i4 has arrived in New Zealand it includes the i4 eDrive40 and the first-ever emissions-free BMW M car – the i4 M50.
Flexible vehicle architecture
Development of the BMW i4 was based on a flexible vehicle architecture in line with BMW Group’s transformation towards electric mobility, where sustainability is the core focus.
Among the highlights of the new electric powertrain are compact drive units that have an elastic bearing in their respective axle subframes.
The extremely slim high-voltage battery has a cell height of just 110 millimetres, is positioned low down in the vehicle floor and has a fixed connection with an aluminium shear panel and the front axle subframe.
A centre of gravity up to 53 millimetres lower than that of the BMW 3 Series Sedan combined with even weight distribution, a torsionally stiff and weight-minimised body, optimised aerodynamics (Cd of 0.24) and wide tracks provide the perfect recipe for BMW’s renowned sporting ability.
This is in the form of an efficient drive system technology and intelligent lightweight design that enables sharp dynamics and a long range without the need for large and heavy batteries.
The result is effortless progress, even in challenging driving conditions, as well as precisely controllable handling.
Chassis technology and Electric all-wheel drive
Both the i4 eDrive40e and M50 models for New Zealand come standard with adaptive M suspension that incorporates bespoke tuning, as well as variable sport steering, M Sport brakes and 19-inch M light alloy wheels.
Near-actuator wheel slip limitation optimises traction and directional stability in all road and weather conditions. This extremely fast-acting and precise system is fitted as standard on the BMW i4.
On the M50 variant, the system teams up with electric all-wheel-drive to deliver exceptional dynamic poise during bursts of speed and under intense lateral acceleration.
The drive torque control for both motors reacts notably faster and with far greater accuracy than would be possible with a transfer case positioned between the axles.
Efficient drive system technology
This highly integrated electric drive system gives a power density of up to 2.14 kW/kg and a high efficiency factor.
Demanding a large amount of power for more than 10 seconds in the BMW i4 M50 triggers Sport Boost, which unfurls not only the drive system’s maximum output but also its mighty maximum system torque of 795Nm.
This enables the BMW M model to sprint from 0-100km/h in 3.9 seconds.
The drive system in the BMW i4 eDrive40 generates peak torque of 430Nm, enabling it to achieve a 0-100km/h time of just 5.7 seconds.
Latest Battery cell technology
The gravimetric energy density of the lithium-ion battery has been increased by around 20 per cent in comparison with the battery in the current BMW i3. The gross energy content of the high-voltage battery is 84kWh.
An integrated heating and cooling system for the interior, the high-voltage battery and the drive system – which operates using an exceptionally efficient heat pump function – comes as standard on the BMW i4.
Anticipatory thermal management allows the operating temperature of the high-voltage battery to be optimised ahead of a stop at a fast-charging station, paving the way for rapid and efficient charging.
The Combined Charging Unit (CCU) of the BMW i4 has been designed to enable extremely flexible battery charging with DC charging possible at up to 200kW.
The Design: Exterior
Short overhangs, slim pillars, doors with frameless windows and a roofline that flows smoothly into the rear underscore a silhouette that befits the BMW coupé mould.
Slim headlights, which are fitted as standard with BMW Laserlight on i4 M50 and available as an option for i4 eDrive40, combine with the striking BMW kidney grille to define the front end of the all-new BMW i4.
The Design: interior
The interior brings a driver-focused cockpit and ambience of premium luxury together with a generously sized, variable-use space.
Acoustic glazing, pre-heating and pre-conditioning come as standard, as do sport seats and a sports steering wheel.
The transmission selector, BMW iDrive controller and function keys are positioned on a control panel in the centre console that exudes modern design.
The large tailgate has an automatic opening and closing mechanism as standard. Load compartment capacity ranges between 470 and 1,290 litres.
Elements include seat heating, BMW individual trim variants, electric glass roof and the premium harman/kardon surround sound system.
What’s new
The new generation of the iDrive display and control/operation system fitted to the BMW i4 extends the interaction between driver and vehicle into natural dialogue.
It is based on the new BMW Operating System 8 and has been designed with a clear focus on the touchscreen functionality of the BMW curved display and spoken communication with the upgraded BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant.
The BMW curved display fully digital screen grouping brings together a 12.3-inch information display and a 14.9-inch control display behind a glass surface angled towards the driver. The digital Intelligent Personal Assistant has gained additional skills and uses a new graphic to communicate with the vehicle’s occupants.
Wide variety of driver assistance systems
Forty assistance functions are fitted as standard or available as options to provide safe and comfortable driving and parking. Highlights include Steering and Lane Control Assistant, Active Cruise Control and Speed Limit Assist.
BMW i4 eDrvie40 and M50 pricing
BMW i4 eDrive40 $109,900*
BMW i4 M50 $137,900*
*Recommended Retail Pricing is shown and includes GST, but excludes on-road and delivery costs. Customers are advised to contact their nearest BMW dealer for all pricing enquiries.
