BMW NZ confirms arrival of i4 models

The BMW i4 is available as a M50 variant and eDrive40. Photos: BMW

BMW New Zealand is preparing for the arrival of the all-new BMW i4 electric range that will land here in early 2022.

BMW NZ has confirmed that we’ll get the i4 M50 performance model that has one electric motor at the front axle and another at the rear to deliver a combined system output of 400kW and high-intensity electric driving pleasure with a range of 510 kilometres in the WLTP cycle.

We’ll also have the i4 eDrive40 that has a 250kW electric motor configured in classical rear-wheel-drive. Its maximum range as per the WLTP cycle is 590 kilometres.

Local pricing and specification will be revealed closer to the launch. 

The i4 range is the second generation of emission-free vehicles, following on from the i3 and i8. BMW will also be launching an all-new electric SUV, the iX.

The development of the BMW i4 was based on a flexible vehicle architecture and was devised for an all-electric drive system. 

Among the highlights of the new electric powertrain are compact drive units that have an elastic bearing in their respective axle subframes. 

The BMW i4 has a slim battery and is placed low on the vehicle floor.

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, even weight distribution, a torsionally stiff and weight-minimised body and optimised aerodynamics (Cd of 0.24), plus a long wheelbase and wide tracks, provide the perfect recipe for BMW’s familiar sporting ability.

In addition, the vehicle concept offers a trademark BMW solution to the traditional clash between sportiness and long-distance 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 disproportionately large and heavy batteries.

The integrated application of all powertrain and chassis components also helps provide the BMW i4 a degree of design coherence its rivals cannot match. 

BMW Group’s technological expertise and long experience in the development of extremely sporty premium cars imbue the BMW i4 with dynamic driving abilities extending far beyond the rapid straight-line acceleration typical of a powerful electric car. 

The result is effortless progress, even in challenging driving conditions, as well as precisely controllable handling. 

Also set to join the model line-up at a later date is the BMW iX M60 (electric power consumption combined in the WLTP cycle: 21.6 kWh/100 km with a maximum output in excess of 440 kW that promises an exceptionally sporty all-electric driving experience.

The BMW i4 eDrive40 and M50 will arrive in New Zealand early 2022.