BMW boosts fully electric range
BMW New Zealand is enhancing its local offering of battery electric vehicles (BEVs) by introducing the i4 eDrive35 later this year.
The model represents a new entry point to the i4 line-up, which already features the i4 eDrive40 and dual motor 400kW i4 M50.
This year has already seen the arrival of the marque’s 225e xDrive plug-in hybrid, 750e xDrive and XM and fully electric i7, while the first-ever i5 M60 xDrive is set to arrive later in 2023.
The i4 eDrive35, pictured, is fitted with fifth-generation eDrive technology that also features in its stablemates as well as a number of other BMW BEVs, such as the iX and i7 flagship sedan.
This technology benefits from BMW-developed components, such as the electric motors, power electronics, charging technology and high-voltage battery.
It ensures an engaging driving experience combined with maximum everyday usability thanks to a long range and short charging times. In addition, a commitment to sustainability includes completely removing rare earths from the production of the electric motors.
The i4 eDrive35’s power system includes a single motor that drives the rear wheels, develops 210kW of power and peak torque of 400Nm, and has a 0-100kph time of six seconds.
It boasts a driving range of 490km on the WLTP cycle. The high-voltage battery, which has a net capacity of 66kWh, can be charged at up to 11kW via AC or at 180kW on a high-speed DC charger.
Customers can charge their i4 via multiple options including ChargeNow, a BMW service operated by ChargeNet, the largest provider of public-charging stations across New Zealand.
A free membership and card is provided to all owners of the marque’s BEVs with a 10 per cent discount on all charging sessions used in the ChargeNow network for the first 24 months.
BMW NZ is also in partnership with EV charge-point operator Jolt to assist in the rollout of free fast-charging options across the country. In addition, a free third-generation wallbox is supplied with every new fully electric BMW in this country.
In-line with BMW Group’s transformation towards electric mobility, the development of the i4 has been based on a flexible vehicle architecture. This was devised – from the outset and for the first time – for an all-electric drive system.
Among the highlights of the new powertrain are compact drive units that have an elastic bearing in their respective axle subframes. The slim high-voltage battery has a cell height of just 110mm. It is positioned low down in the floor, and has a fixed connection with an aluminium shear panel and the front-axle subframe.
A centre of gravity up to 53mm lower than that of the 3 Series sedan, even weight distribution, a torsionally stiff and weight-minimised body and optimised aerodynamics, and a long wheelbase with wide tracks provide sporting ability.
The i4’s stretched proportions and clear use of forms in its body design “communicate a message of exclusivity and the dynamic flair for which BMW is renowned”, says the marque.
Additionally, accents in BMW i Blue for the largely blanked-off kidney grille, battery technology in the floor area and sporty diffuser elements, which optimise the aerodynamics, highlight their “sustainability-friendly credentials”.
There are short overhangs, slim pillars, doors with frameless windows and a roofline that flows smoothly into the rear. Slim headlights and BMW’s kidney grille, with its integrated camera in combination with ultrasonic and radar sensors, are front-end features.
Acoustic glazing, pre-heating and pre-conditioning come as standard, as do sport seats and a sports steering wheel. The transmission selector lever, BMW controller and function keys are on a control panel in the centre console.
The large tailgate has an automatic opening and closing mechanism as standard. Load compartment capacity ranges between 470 and 1,290 litres.
The i4 eDrive35 will be offered with a high level of specification. Features include a 11kW public-charging cable, 18-inch light alloys, active cruise control with stop and go, ambient light, automatic tailgate, and BMW Iconic Sounds Electric and Live.
There’s also a comfort access system, connected package professional, DAB tuner, driving assistant, galvanic embellishers for controls, a Hi-Fi loudspeaker system, high-beam assistant, and interior and exterior mirror package.
Other features are parking assistant, electric-seat adjustment, front-seat heating, SensaTec upholstery and a tyre repair kit. A warning triangle is also included.
The high-voltage battery of the BMW i4 comes with an eight-year warranty, combined with a mileage of up to 160,000km. The i4 eDrive35 has a recommended retail price of $98,900, which includes GST but excludes on-road costs. The eDrive40 starts at $115,000 and the M50 from $144,100.
