BMW on Wednesday unveiled the i5, the first all-electric version of the automaker’s 5-Series luxury sedans, which is expected to arrive in dealerships later this year as model year 2024.
The BMW i5 2024 will launch in the US with eDrive40 and M60 xDrive versions priced from $67,795 and $85,095 respectively. Both rates include the required $995 destination fee. All-electric i5 variants will be sold alongside the petrol 5-Series models, with the plug-in hybrid joining the lineup in calendar year 2024.
The base i5 eDrive40 model has rear-wheel drive, a single-engine, 335 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque, allowing it to accelerate from 0-100 km/h in 5.7 seconds. according to BMW estimates on the way to the electronically limited 120-mph top speed.
24BMW i5
The M60 xDrive upgrades to an all-wheel drive, dual-engine setup, producing 590 hp and 586 lb-ft. This reduces the 0-60 mph time to 3.7 seconds and increases top speed to 143 mph when fitted with performance tires (130 mph with all-season tyres). The sports car also gets standard adaptive suspension, a ride height 0.3 inches lower than the base model, and upgraded brakes.
Both models use an 84.3 kWh battery pack consisting of four modules with 72 cells each and three modules with 12 cells each, mounted under the floor. This arrangement gives the package a lower profile and means that the i5 boasts the same passenger space as the internal combustion-engined 5-Series models.
BMW estimates a maximum range of 295 miles for eDrive40 models equipped with standard 19-inch wheels, while the i5 M60 xDrive has an estimated range of 256 miles.
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DC fast charging at up to 205 kw allows 10-80% to be charged in about 30 minutes, BMW claims, and i5 owners get two years of free 30-minute charging at Electrify America DC fast charging sites. An 11 kw AC Level 2 built-in charger is also included, which, along with battery prerequisites, includes a function to prevent overheating that could affect fast charging.
i5 is similar in concept bmw i4 and i7, in that it is an all-electric version of the petrol model. The main styling difference on the outside is the sealed grille, while inside the i5 has the same range of tech features as the other redesigned 5-Series models.
The dashboard is largely blank except for the 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and 14.9-inch infotainment screen, which are squeezed together to create the appearance of a continuous screen. BMW claims the iDrive 8.5 infotainment system has a more intuitive interface, and it also includes an Air Console gaming platform to provide entertainment during charging sessions.
A host of tech features, including natural language voice recognition, gesture controls, wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, and a windshield display are also available.
24BMW i5
BMW will also offer its latest driver assistance system, called Highway Assistant. As part of the optional Professional Driver Assistance Package, it enables hands-free driving on the highway at speeds up to 85 mph, along with automatic lane change. Driver monitoring is intended to protect against abuse.
Automated parking technology is also available. One system can automatically steer the i5 into a perpendicular parking space, while another can steer the electric sedan out of difficult spots, such as tight garages or driveways, recording repeat operations when the driver performs.
After i5, BMW’s next electric car could be new class Electric vehicles will launch in 2025. Unlike the i5 and other recent BMW electric vehicles, they will be based on a platform dedicated to electric vehicles. Versions for the US market will be Made in Mexicoand will likely turn to a cylindrical pin format. Regardless of what the i5 may suggest, BMW has a plan build affordable electric vehicles in the near future as well.
