BEV Model Born for the BMW 4 Series | BMW

BMW i4 | The BMW i4

A BEV Model Born for the BMW 4 Series

BMW has added the BEV (Battery Electric Vehicle) "i4" to its mid-size four-door coupe model, the "4 Series Gran Coupé," and has begun sales.

Text by YANAKA Tomomi

Up to 590km Range, Standard with Traffic Jam Assist with Hands-Off Function

The 4 Series welcomes its first BEV. The i4 is available in three grades. The rear-wheel-drive "eDrive40" features a motor mounted on the rear, producing a maximum output of 250kW (340ps) and a maximum torque of 430Nm. The "eDrive40 M Sport" offers a sporty style. The all-wheel-drive "M50" model is equipped with motors on both the front (190kW/313ps, 365Nm) and rear (230kW/313ps, 430Nm), delivering a combined system output of 400kW (544ps) and a maximum torque of 795Nm.

A BEV Model Born for the BMW 4 Series | BMW — BMW i4 eDrive40

All models feature a total battery energy capacity of 83.9kWh stored beneath the floor. The driving range on a single charge is 590km for the "eDrive40" and "eDrive40 M Sport," and 510km for the "M50." Charging is compatible with both standard and rapid (CHAdeMO) charging.

Using 150kW rapid charging, which is expected to become more widespread, such as through installation at BMW dealerships, it is possible to charge from 0% to 80% in approximately 30 minutes.

In terms of safety features, it includes the Hands-Off Function, which BMW is introducing for the first time in a model approved for domestic use. This function allows the driver to take their hands off the steering wheel under certain conditions during traffic jams on highways.

In addition, the "Driving Assistant Professional" safety and driver assistance system, which includes Active Cruise Control and Collision Mitigation Braking, is standard equipment.

In terms of connectivity, you can operate the vehicle and set destinations by saying "OK, BMW," and it also supports Apple CarPlay. With the standard BMW ConnectedDrive, you can send destinations searched on your smartphone to the vehicle in advance.

Additionally, you can unlock and lock the vehicle by holding your smartphone near the door handle, without needing the car key.