BMW i4 M50 revealed – 537bhp flagship eyes Tesla’s Model 3
BMW’s next EV takes the form of an electrified 4-series Gran Coupe, topped out with a 537bhp M Performance variant
The BMW i4 sits alongside the iX SUV as an electric version of the incoming 4-series Gran Coupe, and first examples are set to hit our roads this autumn. Alongside a launch date, final details of the range-topping i4 M50 have now been disclosed, giving us our first look at an M-developed EV.
Unlike the iX SUV the i4 goes without a bespoke electric platform, instead sharing underpinnings with existing combustion models. Specifically the i4 sits on an adapted version of the 4-series’ CLAR architecture, but swaps out the traditional combustion powertrain for a pair of electric motors that will power all four wheels.
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The entry-level i4 eDrive40 will utilise a single rear-mounted motor for an output of 335bhp and 317lb ft of torque, enough for a 5.7sec 0-62mph time – range is quote at an impressive 367 miles WLTP, 7 miles higher than the Tesla Model 3 Long Range. 200kW DC fast charging will also allow for a 100-mile range bump in just 10 minutes.
The real performance lies with the i4 M50, what BMW is calling the first M-developed EV. An electric motor sits on each axle sending a combined 537bhp and 586lb ft of torque to all four wheels, providing a G80 M3-matching 3.9sec 0-62mph time. Though impressive, this figure is still quite some way off the Model 3 Performance’s 3.1sec time, but its 317-mile range is also 35 miles lower than Tesla’s range-topper.
Specifics are yet to be revealed but the M50 is also said to focus on dynamics as opposed to straight line performance alone. Adaptive dampers are new to the model, as is variable sport steering, an uprated M Sport braking system and optional lightweight wheels.
Both i4 models also preview an all-new interior, which replaces the current 4-series’s semi-integrated digital interfaces with a new free-standing pair of displays. This new dash architecture is expected to be spread across other 3- and 4-series models at the mid-cycle update, but it’s main purpose in the i4 is supporting BMW’s next generation infotainment system, first seen in the iX SUV.
In order to adapt the CLAR structure to house the electric motors and battery pack, BMW has had to make lots of subtle modifications to the i4’s body, which sits slightly higher than standard 4-series models. Changes include shallower doors to allow for the taller floor, a deeper sill design that incorporates a contrasting trim piece, and the blanking of the controversial new grille.
BMW is yet to reveal finer details about the i4’s powertrain and specifications, but they will be available closer to the new i4’s launch later this year. Joining the i4 will also be an all-electric version of the 3-series saloon, and BMW’s next 7-series will also be available with both combustion and electric powertrains too, signalling that BMW’s electrification strategy will be to amalgamate fully electrified models into its current range structure, rather than having a completely separate electric range sitting alongside.
This differs from rival Mercedes-Benz, who has made a conscious decision to segment its all-electric models completely from its existing models, as will be seen later this year with the arrival of its EQS and later the EQE. Both these models will be distinct from the traditional S-class and E-class, running on a bespoke platform and with entirely unique packaging and styling. It will be an interesting exercise over the next few years to see which of these two automotive giants made the right decision.
First examples of the BMW i4 will hit the road in autumn 2021.
