BMW USA has unveiled a mid-season refresh for summer 2023, introducing two all-new electric vehicle (EV) variants that are expected to arrive at dealerships before the year’s close. BMW is expanding its electric lineup with a more affordable all-wheel-drive version of the i4 Gran Coupe and a rear-wheel-drive model of the newly launched i7 EV. This innovative technology enables seamless integration with various features and systems within the vehicle.
As the majority of its German competitors transition to all-electric models, BMW has been gradually making the shift, now reaping the benefits of its efforts. During the first quarter, the legacy automaker witnessed a significant surge in electric vehicle (EV) sales, doubling previous growth and paving the way for EVs to become its primary driving force for the remainder of the fiscal year.
Significant numbers of these substantial sales have been driven by the BMW i4 EV, one of its longest-standing models, currently available in two single-motor configurations and a high-performance, dual-motor M edition. BMW’s electric fleet has expanded significantly, with the i4 now accompanied by the iX SUV and the i7, featuring the brand’s most powerful EV to date in its M variant.
As teasers hint at a forthcoming i5 release, BMW is also poised to inject innovative electric vehicles (EVs) into its existing lineup, providing additional options for US consumers.
BMW will introduce two new electric vehicle (EV) variants to the US market within the next 12 months.
BMW introduces a fourth model of its i4 electric vehicle family as part of its seasonal update for summer. The Bavarian luxury brand has introduced its new i4 xDrive40 model, nestled between the powerful dual-motor i4 M50 and the more fuel-efficient single-motor i4 eDrive40. As outlined below, the key specifications are:
- 80.7 kWh (web) battery capability
- 396 horsepower and 443 pound-feet of torque
- With a 0-60 mph time of just 4.9 seconds, this vehicle is poised to leave the competition in its dust.
- Maximum Recharge Price for a 205 kW DC Quick Charger
- According to BMW’s estimates, the electric vehicle is expected to have a range of approximately 307 miles when equipped with 18-inch wheels. When fitted with 19-inch wheels, the estimated range decreases slightly to around 282 miles.
The BMW i4 xDrive40 electric vehicle is expected to debut in the third quarter of this year as a 2024 model, with a starting price tag of $61,600 plus $995 destination and handling fees. For comparison purposes, the 2023 i4 eDrive40 starts at a Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of $57,100, while the 2023 M50 kicks off at $68,700.
U.S. customers were initially treated to early shipments of the all-new i7 Electric Vehicle towards the end of last year; now, BMW is expanding its offerings by introducing an additional variant to strengthen its electric portfolio. Later this year, two previously introduced all-wheel-drive (AWD) variants of the i7 will be joined by a rear-wheel-drive (RWD) option called the i7 xDrive50.
The all-electric variant of this vehicle will utilize BMW’s advanced Gen 5 motor on its rear axle, producing a remarkable 449 horsepower. Starting at an MSRP of $105,700 (including a $995 destination fee) One Motor’s potential launch is expected to begin delivering within the US this autumn.
Finally, BMW unveiled a preview of its latest infotainment system, iDrive 8.5, as seen above. Starting in July, BMW will roll out its new operating system across various models, including i4 electric vehicles and the 7-series lineup, allowing for seamless integration during production. Per BMW:
A reimagined home screen on the BMW Curved Display now boasts a sleekly organized layout, significantly enhancing user experience. The innovative zero-layer concept enables instant access to all relevant features and data on a single, easily navigable plane, allowing users to quickly select their desired function without prior menu navigation. On the consumer interface, intuitive stay widgets are stacked vertically along the motive force’s edge, easily accessible via a simple finger touch.
