The all-new BMW i4 will launch in New Zealand in the first quarter of next year with two variants – the i4 eDrive40 and the first-ever emissions-free BMW M car – the i4 M50.  

The BMW i4 M50 performance model adopts one electric motor at the front axle and another at the rear to deliver a combined system output of 400kW and a range of 510 kilometres in the WLTP cycle. 

The BMW i4 eDrive40 combines a 250kW electric motor with a classic rear-wheel-drive configuration and offers a WLTP range of 590 kilometres.

Both variants of the all-new BMW i4 will be manufactured at BMW Group Plant Munich with sustainability a core focus. 

Electricity used to produce the vehicle in Munich is generated via hydroelectric plants in Bavaria, which is a key aspect of BMW Group’s plan to reduce its CO2 emissions in the production phase by 80 percent by 2030. 

The i4 eDrive40 is priced from $109,900 while the i4 M50 is $137,900. Both models offered with complimentary ChargeNow membership card and free membership to New Zealand’s largest and fastest public charging network

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.