BMW released some specs on the upcoming i4 at the LA Auto Show back in November. This latest unveiling shows off more of what we can expect the i4 to look like, plus a bit more information on the interior and expected range.
The 2021 BMW i4 will arrive with a long wheelbase, a fastback roofline, and four-doors in the Gran Coupe style of the BMW 4 Series Gran Coupe.
The front end shows a closed-off grille. BMW says it has given the grille of the concept a purpose beyond just a reminder of its combustion engine past. The grille will be used to house various sensors, according to BMW. The grille acts as an “intelligence panel” and houses various sensors. Mounted either side are slender, sharp, LED headlights, and vertical air inlets, presumably to cool the brakes and improve aerodynamics. On the back and following the sweeping B pillars are sharp and slim L-shaped taillights and vertical air outlets. For the concept, at least, BMW has highlighted the rear diffuser elements so as not to upset eyes that are used to seeing exhaust outlets there.
The interior will be more touch-based and have fewer buttons. Inside, the i4 Concept shows off a curved infotainment screen/digital gauge cluster combo. BMW has confirmed this will make production in not just the i4, but also the upcoming production-ready iNEXT SUV. The screen controls almost all of the vehicle’s functions, including heating and ventilation, infotainment and navigation. The cabin is trimmed in a host of sustainable materials, including microfibre fabric and natural leather, which is tanned using an olive leaf pigment. As on the conventional 4 Series Gran Coupe, the centre console also features BMW’s trademark iDrive rotary control dial, albeit re-trimmed in crystal glass.
The i4 will have the fifth-generation BMW eDrive, a platform that features a brand new electric motor, power electronics, charging unit and high-voltage battery. Providing the drive for the BMW i4 is a single electric motor delivering 530 horsepower. The powertrain is fed by an 80kWh battery pack which provides a maximum claimed range of 373 miles, and BMW claims the all-electric i4 will accelerate from 0-62 mph in four seconds and a top speed of 124mph. The i4 will also have a 150-kilowatt charging capacity so it can get up to 80 percent of its range in just 35 minutes.
Prices for the new model are still to be confirmed, but when it goes on sale in 2021, it’ll need to be on a par with the Tesla Model 3. Depending on spec, its American rival is priced between $49,200 and $69,100.
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