BMW i4

• 2023 BMW i4 eDrive35 now in Malaysia – 483 km EV range; 286 PS; fr RM258k; RM126k less than eDrive40

  In BMW, Cars, Electric Cars in Malaysia, Local Car Launches, Local News / By Gerard Lye / 1 August 2023 1:54 pm / 30 comments

  

  BMW Malaysia has expanded the local i4 range to now include the new eDrive35 and eDrive35 M Sport, which join the existing eDrive40 and M50. With this, customers now have more versions of the i4 to choose from to suit their budgets.

  On that mention, the i4 eDrive35 retails for RM258,210 on-the-road (OTR) without insurance, while the eDrive35 M Sport goes for RM284,210. These prices are with a standard two-year warranty, but if you opt for the extended warranty (five years) and service (six years) package, the eDrive35 goes up to RM273,800 and the eDrive35 M Sport to RM299,800.

  Keep in mind that the OTR prices listed are inclusive of road tax (RM2,644 for both eDrive35 variants), which is currently exempted for electric vehicles (EVs) until the end of 2025. As such, the actual amount payable is lower until after then. As with other fully-imported (CBU) EVs, the i4 also benefits from import duty and excise duty exemption until December 31, 2025.

  We should point out that the price gap between the eDrive35 and eDrive40 M Sport is RM126,000, with the difference reduced to RM100,000 when the eDrive35 M Sport replaces the former in the same comparison. The more affordable price points to come with a catch, and that is the powertrain and equipment you’ll get for your money.

  

  Like the eDrive40 M Sport, both eDrive35 variants feature a rear-mounted electric motor. However, the unit is rated at 286 PS (282 hp or 210 kW) and 400 Nm of torque instead of the eDrive40’s 340 PS (335 hp or 250 kW) and 430 Nm. As such, the 0-100 km/h time of the eDrive35 variants is three tenths of a second slower at six seconds instead of 5.7 seconds – the top speed is 190 km/h.

  The electric motor also draws power from a lithium-ion battery with a lower gross energy capacity of 70.3 kWh (66 kWh usable), so the WLTP-rated range is up to 483 km. By comparison, the eDrive40’s battery has a gross capacity of 83.9 kWh (81.5 kWh usable) and it provides up to 590 km of range.

  An 11-kW onboard AC charger (Type 2) is shared with the eDrive40, which gets the eDrive35’s battery to a full charge in about 8.25 hours with a charger capable of that amount of power. As for DC fast charging (CCS2), the eDrive35 variants can only handle up to 180 kW instead of 200 kW, with a 10-80% state of charge achieved in 32 minutes. These times are not that far off the eDrive40, it should be noted.

  In terms of equipment, the eDrive35 is dressed in the Sport package that is paired with 18-inch double-spoke style 853 bicolour light-alloy wheels and Frozen Grey exterior highlights. You’ll also get LED headlamps (eDrive40 gets Laserlight), standard passive suspension (eDrive40 gets adaptive M suspension), oak grain open-pored fine-wood trim, an anthracite M headliner, three-zone climate control, powered front seats with driver’s side memory function, ambient lighting, a wireless charger, a powered tailgate, IconicSounds Electric and Comfort Access.

  

  

  2023 BMW i4 eDrive35 spec sheet; click to enlarge

  The eDrive35 M Sport builds upon the entry-level option by gaining new bumpers with a more aggressive design as well as the M high-gloss Shadowline exterior package. The wheels remain at 18 inches in diameter, but they are M Aerodynamic style 858 M bicolour units instead.

  Inside, you’ll get an M leather steering wheel, aluminium ‘Rhombicle’ anthracite M interior trim and the BMW Live Cockpit Professional system, which features a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a 14.9-inch central touchscreen.

  ConnectedDrive services are included along with Connected Package Professional, the latter providing Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. The base eDrive35 also gets the dual-screen setup, but its BMW Live Cockpit Plus system means you won’t get a head-up display.

  

  

  2023 BMW i4 eDrive35 M Sport spec sheet; click to enlarge

  Even so, both variants will come standard with the Driving Assistant package that includes Active Cruise Control with stop & go function, Lane Departure Warning with Lane Return, Lane Change Warning, Front Collision Warning with Brake Intervention (AEB), Rear Crossing Traffic Warning, Rear Collision Prevention and Speed Limit Info. There’s also the Parking Assistant package providing assisted parking, a reverse camera, Active Park Distance Control and the Reversing Assistant.

  The i4 eDrive35 is available in Black Sapphire, Mineral White, Sanremo Green, Skyscraper Grey and Aventurine Red, while the eDrive35 M Sport gains two additional options: M Portimao Blue and M Brooklyn Grey. The perforated Sensatec synthetic leather comes in either Black, Cognac or Tacora Red.

  Each purchase comes with an eight-year, 160,000-km battery warranty, a public charging cable, a portable home charger, roadside assistance, BMW Service Online and the BMW Group Loyalty+ Mobile App – BMW Privileges Card.

  Here’s an overview of the BMW i4 range in Malaysia with OTR pricing:

  • BMW i4 eDrive35: RM258,210; RM273,800 with extended warranty and service (BMW Service + Repair Inclusive or BSRI)
  • BMW i4 eDrive35 M Sport: RM284,210; RM299,800 with BSRI
  • BMW i4 eDrive40 M Sport: RM384,210; RM399,800 with BSRI
  • BMW i4 M50: RM430,210; RM445,800 with BSRI

  

  

  2023 BMW i4 eDrive40 M Sport spec sheet; click to enlarge

  

  

  2023 BMW i4 M50 spec sheet; click to enlarge

   

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• 2023 BMW i4 M50 EV in Malaysia – 544 PS/795 Nm dual-motor AWD with 510 km range; from RM430,210

  In BMW, Cars, Local News / By Mick Chan / 26 June 2023 1:16 pm / 9 comments

  

  Launched in Malaysia last month, the BMW i4 M50 brings uprated performance to the i4 electric vehicle range which begins with the i4 eDrive40 that arrived in Malaysia in April last year.

  Here, the Malaysian-specification i4 M50 gets the M Sport exterior package which brings the M rear spoiler and a rear diffuser insert in black, along with 20-inch BMW Individual Style 862 aero alloy wheels. Here, this example is shod in Goodyear Eagle F1 Asymmetric 5 tyres measuring 245/35R20 in front and 255/35R20 at the rear.

  Being of M50 specification, this i4 packs a dual-motor electric powertrain featuring a front motor producing 258 PS and 430 Nm of torque for the front axle, and a rear motor producing 313 PS and 365 Nm; this rear motor is rated for 27 PS and 65 Nm less than the rear-axle unit in the base eDrive40 that makes 340 PS and 430 Nm.

  

  Of course the combined output in the M50 eclipses that of eDrive40, this higher performance variant packing 544 PS and 795 Nm of torque in total. This is via activating the Sport Boost function that grants the driver access to the full complement for 10 seconds, enabling the i4 M50 to do the 0-100 km/h sprint in 3.9 seconds, or nearly two seconds quicker than that achieved by the eDrive40.

  Top speed in the i4 M40 is an electronically limited 225 km/h, which is 35 km/h higher that the 190 km/h maximum achieved by the i4 eDrive40. the i4 M50 features an 83.9 kWh (80.7 kWh nett) lithium-ion battery that is good for up to 510 km on a single charge, or down approximately 80 km from the eDrive40 with the same battery capacity.

  

  

  

  

  Charging at 11 kW AC brings a full charge to the i4 M50 in eight hours 15 minutes, while DC charging at its maximum 200 kW brings a 10-80% state of charge in 31 minutes.

  Inside, the i4 M50 features a 12.3-inch digital instrument panel for the driver alongside a 14.9-inch central touchscreen, together comprising the Curved Display, both running BMW Operating System 8. Smartphone connectivity here is supported by Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and also included is the Qi wireless charging pad.

  Audio comes courtesy of a 17-speaker, 525-watt Harman Kardon surround sound system which incorporates the BMW IconicSounds Electric synthesised “engine” sounds. Further interior equipment includes three-zone climate control, keyless entry, push-button start and power-adjustable front seats with memory for the driver’s seat, and more.

  

  

  

  

  Safety equipment on the i4 M50 includes the Driving Assistant Professional package, which brings autonomous emergency braking, adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go function, lane centring assist, lane keeping assist, blind spot monitoring and collision prevention. Also on are adaptive high beam, park assist, 360-degree camera ensemble, acoustic pedestrian warning as well as Active Protection.

  Exterior colours for the i4 M50 in Malaysia are Mineral White, Black Sapphire, M Brooklyn Grey, M Portimao Blue and Sanremo Green, which can be paired with Vernasca leather upholstery either in black (with blue contrast stitching) or in Cognac.

  The BMW i4 M50 is priced from RM430,210, or RM445,800 to include the full five-year, unlimited mileage warranty with free scheduled servicing; the drive battery is covered by an eight-year/160,000 km battery warranty, whichever comes first.

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

   

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• 2023 BMW i4 M50 EV debuts in Malaysia – all-electric M with 544 PS/795 Nm, 510 km range, from RM430k

  In BMW, Cars, Electric Cars in Malaysia, Local News / By Anthony Lim / 3 May 2023 11:47 am / 13 comments

  

  First announced for our market last year, BMW Malaysia has finally given the BMW i4 M50 its Malaysian premiere, with the all-electric performance Gran Coupe making its local debut today at the Malaysia Autoshow 2023. Joining the standard i4 eDrive40 variant in the local line-up, the car is the first electrified M-badged vehicle to be officially introduced here.

  Aside from being fitted with BMW M 50 Years emblems as standard, the Malaysian-spec M50 rides on 20-inch BMW Individual Style 862 aero alloy wheels and is kitted with an M Sport package, M rear spoiler in body colour and a black rear diffuser insert. There’s also an extended Shadowline package that adds a gloss black grille surround, front corner air inlets and door mirrors, plus dark grey pinstriping on the grille and rear diffuser.

  Inside, the variant features carbon fibre trim finishers, M Sport front seats, M tricolour seat belts and M Anthracite headliner in addition to an M Sport steering wheel. Like the eDrive40, the M50’s dash is wrapped in Sensatec faux leather, but ups the upholstery finishing to Vernasca leather, and there’s also a sliding glass sunroof, which the standard i4 doesn’t have.

  

  Otherwise, interior equipment is identical to the eDrive40. There’s a Curved Display panel with a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a 14.9-inch centre touchscreen, both running the latest BMW Operating System 8, as well as triple-zone climate control, keyless entry, push-button start and power-adjustable front seats with driver’s side memory, among others.

  Also present is Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, a Qi wireless charger, a hands-free powered tailgate and a 17-speaker, 525 watt Harman Kardon surround sound system as well as the automaker’s IconicSounds Electric synthesised “engine” sounds.

  Unlike the rear-wheel drive, single motor eDrive40, the M50 features an all-wheel drive configuration with the addition of a front motor. This produces 258 PS (or 190 kW) and 430 Nm of torque. As for the rear unit, it delivers 313 PS (or 230 kW) and 365 Nm, which is 27 PS (20 kW) and 65 Nm less than the eDrive40’s 340 PS and 430 Nm.

  

  

  

  Nonetheless, total system output is way up, with 544 PS (or 400 kW) and 795 Nm on tap. These combined figures are available to drivers for up to 10 seconds using the Sport Boost function, and it enables the M50 to complete the 0-100 km/h run in 3.9 seconds, which is nearly two seconds quicker than the eDrive40. Top speed is an electronically-limited 225 km/h, up from the 190 km/h on the standard i4.

  The motors are juiced by an 83.9 kWh (80.7 kWh nett) lithium-ion battery, the same as that on the Drive40, and so the higher performance means a sacrifice in operating range, in this case by around 80 km, with the M50 able to do up to 510 km on a single charge. Charging takes eight hours and 15 minutes using an 11 kW AC charger, while DC charging – at up to 200 kW – gets the battery from a 10 to 80% state-of-charge in just 31 minutes.

  In terms of safety and driver assistance systems, the M50 comes with the full Driving Assistant Professional package, which has autonomous emergency braking, adaptive cruise control with stop and go, lane centring assist, lane keeping assist, blind spot monitoring and collision prevention in its kitbag.

  

  

  

  Additionally, there’s also adaptive high beam, park assist, a 360-degree camera system, acoustic pedestrian warning and Active Protection (similar to Mercedes-Benz’s Pre-Safe).

  As for exterior colour choices, the i4 M50 is available in Mineral White, Black Sapphire, M Brooklyn Grey, M Portimao Blue and Sanremo Green, matched with either black (with contrasting blue stitching) or Cognac Vernasca leather upholstery.

  Pricing for the BMW i4 M50 starts from RM430,210. Extending to a five-year unlimited mileage warranty with free scheduled service programme will bring the price of the car to RM445,800. As for the battery, it’s covered by an eight-year/160,000 km battery warranty (whichever comes first).

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

   

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• 2022 BMW i4 M50 in Malaysia – electric M-car, 544 PS, 0-100 km/h 3.9 secs, 510 km range; priced at RM431k

  In BMW, Cars, Electric Cars in Malaysia, Local Car Launches, Local News / By Jonathan Lee / 24 May 2022 11:21 am / 11 comments

  

  As we reported earlier, BMW M is celebrating its 50th anniversary, and not only is the world getting two new special edition models today, but us Malaysians are receiving not one, not two but five new M vehicles that have now been launched. Here, we’re focusing on the first-ever fully-electric M model to hit the streets – the BMW i4 M50, the meanest version of Munich’s zero-emission Gran Coupé.

  First, let’s start with pricing. As with other electric vehicles, the i4 M50 benefits from the government’s import tax, excise duty and road tax exemptions and is priced at RM430,800, RM41,000 more expensive than the standard eDrive40 variant. This figure includes the sales and service tax (SST), as the car is expected to arrive after the June 30 cutoff for the Penjana rebate, as well as a five-year, unlimited-mileage warranty, a six-year free service package and an eight-year/160,000 km battery warranty.

  Unlike the rear-drive eDrive40, the M50 gets all-wheel drive, thanks to the addition of a front motor producing 190 kW (258 PS) and 430 Nm of torque. The rear unit, meanwhile, has been detuned slightly to 230 kW (313 PS, down from 340 PS) and 365 Nm, although that’s still enough for the i40 to dish out a total system output of 400 kW (544 PS) and 795 Nm.

  

  These combined figures are available to drivers for up to ten seconds using the Sport Boost function, enabling the M50 to sprint from zero to 100 km/h in 3.9 seconds (nearly two seconds quicker than the eDrive40) on its way to an electronically-limited top speed of 225 km/h (up from 190 km/h).

  Equipped with the same 83.9 kWh (80.7 kWh nett) lithium-ion battery as the eDrive40, the M50 actually delivers less range at 510 km, 80 km shorter on the same WLTP cycle. Charging takes eight hours and 15 minutes using an 11 kW AC charger, with the M50 also able to accept up to 200 kW of DC charging power, the latter filling the battery from 10 to 80% in just 31 minutes.

  As per our eDrive40, the M50 comes as standard with the M Sport package, with differentiating features including an M badge (instead of the i logo) on the full-height, closed-off double kidney grille, a boot lid lip spoiler and BMW M’s trademark dual-arm door mirrors.

  

  Our car gets the Extended Shadowline package that adds a gloss black grille surround, front corner air inlets and door mirrors, plus dark grey pinstriping on the grille and rear diffuser. The Malaysian-spec M50 also rides on 20-inch BMW Individual Style 862 aero alloy wheels, which were fitted to the preview eDrive40 earlier this year but not the eventual retail model that went on sale in April.

  Inside, there are carbon fibre trim inserts, heavily-bolstered M Sport seats and M tricolour seat belts to go with the standard M Sport steering wheel, alloy pedals and black headlining. As with the eDrive40, the M50 gets the Curved Display panel with a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a 14.9-inch centre touchscreen, both running the latest BMW Operating System 8.

  Unlike the eDrive40, the M50 swaps out Sensatec faux leather for real Vernasca cowhide, although the dashboard is still wrapped in Sensatec; it’s also the only i4 variant to get a sliding glass sunroof. Otherwise, the specs are identical and include Laserlight headlamps (here with darkened internals), keyless entry, push-button start, triple-zone climate control and power-adjustable front seats with driver’s side memory.

  

  Other bits of kit are park assist, a 360-degree camera system, IconicSounds Electric synthesised “engine” sounds (designed in collaboration with renown composer Hans Zimmer), acoustic pedestrian warning, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, a Qi wireless charger, a 17-speaker, 525-watt Harman Kardon surround sound system and a hands-free powered tailgate.

  Safety-wise, the M50 comes with the full Driving Assistant Professional package (as does the eDrive40), comprising of autonomous emergency braking, adaptive cruise control with stop and go, lane centring assist, lane keeping assist, blind spot monitoring and collision prevention and adaptive high beam. Active Protection, BMW’s version of Mercedes-Benz’s Pre-Safe, is also fitted.

  In terms of exterior colours, the i4 M50 is available in Mineral White, Black Sapphire, M Brooklyn Grey, M Portimao Blue and Sanremo Green, matched with either black (with contrasting blue stitching) or Cognac Vernasca leather upholstery on the inside. The car can be booked now through the BMW Shop Online with a RM5,000 fee, with monthly instalments starting from RM4,958 via Straight Line financing.

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  
  GALLERY: BMW i4 M50 global press images

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

   

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• 2022 BMW i4 EV in Malaysia – price starts from RM365k with SST exemption, deliveries in mid-May

  In BMW, Cars, Electric Cars in Malaysia, Local News / By Jonathan Lee / 11 April 2022 2:49 pm / 11 comments

  

  Having been announced for the Malaysian market months in advance, the BMW i4 was finally opened for booking last week, priced at RM389,900 on-the-road without insurance. This figure included the full sales and service tax (SST), with the understanding at the time that deliveries would begin after the June 30 deadline for the government’s SST exemptions.

  A recent perusal of the official price list, however, revealed pricing for the car with a 50% SST rebate for CBU imports. A BMW Group Malaysia spokesperson has since confirmed to us that deliveries will indeed begin before the deadline, starting in mid-May.

  Pricing for the sole eDrive40 M Sport model has therefore reduced to RM364,676 with the standard two-year, unlimited-mileage warranty, or RM380,266 with the optional five-year warranty and six-year service package (an eight-year/160,000 km battery warranty comes as standard). Like for like, the i4 is RM9,534 cheaper without SST. As per the iX, the i4 gets a RM4,600 Power Package that adds a BMW i Wallbox charger (likely a 22 kW unit) and a Type 2 public charging cable.

  A full spec sheet has also been distributed by dealers, revealing some additional kit for the Malaysian variant. These include Adaptive M Suspension and Variable Sport Steering (both a prerequisite for the larger M Sport brakes in other markets), galvanised silver switchgear and the IconicSounds Electric function developed in conjunction with renown composer Hans Zimmer. The i4 is also one of the few BMWs sold locally to come with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as standard.

  

  

  
  Click to enlarge

  Otherwise, the equipment list is as listed in the press release – Laserlight headlamps, 19-inch Style 860 M two-tone alloy wheels (shown above; they are smaller than the 20-inch rollers previewed in January), blue brake callipers, keyless entry, push-button start and an external loudspeaker for alerting pedestrians.

  Also fitted is rhombic aluminium interior trim, Sensatec faux leather upholstery on the dashboard and seats, power-adjustable sports seats with driver’s side memory, three-zone automatic climate control, park assist, a 360-degree camera, Qi wireless charging, a 17-speaker, 525-watt Harman Kardon sound system and a hands-free powered tailgate.

  The i4 also comes with the iX’s freestanding curved display panel, incorporating a 12.3-inch digital instrument display and a 14.9-inch infotainment touchscreen. These run on the new BMW Operating System 8 with a striking user interface, a customisable instrument layout and integrated climate controls.

  

  

  Safety-wise, the i4 comes with the full Driving Assistant Professional suite, including autonomous emergency braking, adaptive cruise control with stop and go, lane centring assist, lane keeping assist, blind spot monitoring and collision prevention and rear cross traffic alert with auto brake.

  To recap, the i4 is powered by a single rear motor producing 250 kW (340 PS) and 430 Nm of torque, both figures higher than that of the iX3. So equipped, it will get from zero to 100 km/h in 5.7 seconds before hitting a top speed of 190 km/h. An 83.9 kWh lithium-ion battery enables a range of 590 km on a single charge.

  Like the rest of its siblings, the i4 can accept up to 11 kW of AC charging power, filling the battery in eight hours and 15 minutes. However, the i4 is able to support up to 200 kW of DC fast charging input (up from 150 kW on the iX) using the same Combined Charging System (CCS) connector, although because of the larger battery, the charge time from 10% to 80% is the same as the iX at 31 minutes.

  GALLERY: 2022 BMW i4 eDrive40 M Sport previewed in Malaysia

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

   

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• 2022 BMW i4 EV priced at RM390k in Malaysia – eDrive40 M Sport, 590 km range, open for booking now

  In BMW, Cars, Electric Cars in Malaysia, Local News / By Jonathan Lee / 7 April 2022 6:41 pm / 26 comments

  

  Three months after its first appearance in Malaysia, the BMW i4 is now open for booking in the country, completing the initial local electric vehicle lineup. The zero-emissions five-door Gran Coupé joins the iX and iX3 SUVs, offering more range and better performance than its taller brethren – albeit at a higher price.

  Just one variant will be offered, the rear-wheel-drive eDrive40 M Sport priced at RM389,800 on-the-road without insurance. This figure includes the government’s import tax, excise duty and road tax exemptions for EVs, along with the full sales and service tax (SST) – the latter should mean that deliveries will occur after the June 30 deadline for the ongoing SST exemptions. Also included is the five-year, unlimited-mileage warranty and service package; the price will drop with the standard two-year warranty.

  The high price is surprising to say the least, making it more expensive than expected and higher than the iX3 and iX. In other markets, the i4 is the cheapest among the three models. However, it does come with more kit as standard compared to the SUVs.

  

  Power comes from a single rear motor producing 250 kW (340 PS) and 430 Nm of torque, both figures being higher than that of the iX3. So equipped, it will get from zero to 100 km/h in 5.7 seconds before hitting a top speed of 190 km/h. An 83.9 kWh lithium-ion battery enables a range of 590 km on a single charge.

  Like the rest of its siblings, the i4 can accept up to 11 kW of AC charging power, filling the battery in eight hours and 15 minutes. However, the i4 is able to support up to 200 kW of DC fast charging input (up from 150 kW on the iX) using the same Combined Charging System (CCS) connector, although because of the larger battery, the charge time from 10% to 80% is the same as the iX at 31 minutes.

  The i4 is based on the 4 Series Gran Coupé and as such gets a number of unique design cues from the regular two-door, aside from the obvious number of doors. While the trapezoidal headlights, L-shaped taillights and controversial full-height double kidney grille (closed off here) are identical, the electric version gets Air Breather vents on the front fenders, flush door handles and a lower-profile shark fin antenna.

  

  On top of that, the M Sport kit adds larger air intakes, deeper side skirts and contrasting grey panels on the rear bumpers, the latter flanking the large diffuser. Unlike the car that was shown in January, local models will ride on smaller 19-inch Style 860 M two-tone alloy wheels. Laserlight headlamps and M Sport brakes with blue callipers are fitted as standard.

  Inside, the i4 is differentiated from the 3 Series, 4 Series and 4 Series Gran Coupé by the freestanding curved display panel from the iX, incorporating a 12.3-inch digital instrument display and a 14.9-inch infotainment touchscreen. These run on the new BMW Operating System 8 with a striking user interface, a customisable instrument layout and integrated climate controls.

  Here, the M Sport package adds a thicker three-spoke steering wheel, power-adjustable sports seats with driver’s side memory, aluminium trim with a rhombic pattern, alloy pedals and black headlining. The dashboard and seats are upholstered in Sensatec faux leather, with the pews coming in either Black, Mocha and Tacora Red hues.

  

  

  Click to enlarge

  Other bits of standard equipment include an external loudspeaker to warn pedestrians of the car’s presence, keyless entry, push-button start, three-zone automatic climate control, park assist, a 360-degree camera, Qi wireless charging, a 17-speaker, 525-watt Harman Kardon sound system and a hands-free powered tailgate.

  Safety-wise, the i4 comes with the full Driving Assistant Professional suite, including autonomous emergency braking, adaptive cruise control with stop and go, lane centring assist, lane keeping assist, blind spot monitoring and collision prevention and rear cross traffic alert with auto brake.

  The i4 will initially be available in Black Sapphire, Mineral White and Dravit Grey, with Sanremo Green and Portimao Blue coming on stream later on – during which Brooklyn Grey will also be introduced to replace Dravit Grey. Monthly instalments will start from RM4,306, said BMW Group Malaysia.

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

   

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• 2022 BMW i4 eDrive40 EV previewed in Malaysia – 340 PS and 430 Nm, 590 km range, well under RM300k?

  In BMW, Cars, Electric Cars in Malaysia, Local News / By Anthony Lim / 14 January 2022 12:06 pm / 19 comments

  

  In August last year, BMW Malaysia announced that the i4 would be one of three BMW i models that would form the spearhead for the company’s electrification push in the country. While the other two, the iX and iX3, have officially gone on sale, the i4 has not yet been formally introduced.

  However, the car has made its first public appearance, doing so at the ongoing NEXTGen Malaysia event, signalling that its debut may not be too far away, what with series production having begun in October last year.

  The example on display at the three-day symposium is an eDrive40, which is the variant previously listed on the company’s website. The car features a single motor offering 340 PS (335 hp or 240 kW) and 430 Nm, with power being sent to the rear wheels via a single-speed transmission. Performance figures include a sprint time of 5.7 seconds and an electronically-governed top speed of 190 km/h.

  

  In terms of range, an 83.9 kWh battery (which is covered by an eight-year or 160,000 km warranty) offers up to 590 km of travel distance (WLTP cycle) on a full charge. The i4 supports up to 200 kW DC fast-charging (CCS Combo 2 connection), with a 10-minute charge providing up to 164 km of range at this rate. Meanwhile, its 11 kW integrated AC charger (Type 2 connection) will allow the battery to be charged from 0% to 100% SOC in under 8.5 hours.

  Although specifications for the local variants haven’t been revealed, the configurator on the website shows that we can expect two variants, a base i4 and an M Sport version. As standard, the car comes with a BMW Curved Display, which integrates a 12.3-inch instrument display and 14.9-inch infotainment screen in a single curved unit, as well BMW Operating System 8.

  Standard equipment includes BMW Live Cockpit Professional, a three-zone automatic climate control system with nanofiltration, sport leather steering wheel, acoustic windscreen glass and LED ambient lighting. As for unique interior elements, you’ll find a blue-ringed logo on the steering wheel as well as a blue accented gearshift and push-start button.

  

  

  While there has been no indication of pricing, a comparison of UK and Australian pricing of the i4 eDrive40 in relation to the iX and iX3 provides an average working estimate of what we can possibly expect.

  In the UK, the price of the i4 starts from £51,905 (RM297,900) for the Sport variant, while the iX3 starts from £60,970 (RM349,900) and that for the iX, from £69,905 (RM401,150). In Australia, the i4 starts from AUD99,900 (RM304,100), while that of the iX3 is from AUD114,900 (RM349,750) and the iX, from AUD135,900 (RM413,650).

  Prior to their price revisions yesterday, the iX3 was launched with a RM317,360 price tag for the Inspiring variant, while the XDrive40 went for RM419,630, the latter relatively close to that of the SUV in both the above markets. With tax exemptions, the iX3 Inspiring now starts from RM307,160, while the iX is priced from RM361,430.

  That the i4 should arrive under the RM300k mark is pretty much a given – with tax breaks, the CBU EV could well be priced in between the likes of the 330i M Sport (RM290,332) and 330e M Sport hybrid (RM270,968, both prices inclusive of an extended warranty and service package). Guess we’ll know soon enough.

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

   

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• 2022 BMW i4 M50 – first fully electric BMW M model gets 544 PS, 795 Nm; 0-100 km/h in 3.9s, 510 km range!

  In BMW, Cars, International News / By Matthew H Tong / 2 June 2021 7:18 pm / 1 comment

  

  You’ve seen the new BMW i4 eDrive40, now say hello to BMW M’s first ever fully electric car, the i4 M50. Think of this as the M440i‘s electric counterpart – the six-pot M440i is positioned below the M4, so if BMW M has plans for a range-topping i4, it would likely be called the i4 M.

  (The BMW i4 M50 has been launched in Malaysia; check out our live gallery of the fully electric Gran Coupe, here.)

  For now, let’s shift our focus to this all-wheel drive beast. The i4 M50 packs a twin motor setup, one mounted on each axle. Like the eDrive40 variant, the intelligent power unit is based on BMW’s fifth-generation eDrive technology, which integrates an electronically excited synchronous motor (not magnetic, thus free of rare earth materials) into a compact housing, together with the single-speed transmission.

  The front motor puts out 190 kW, while the rear produces 230 kW. Together, they are capable of producing a maximum output of 400 kW. In Sport mode, the Sport Boost function raises output to an astonishing 544 PS and 795 Nm of torque, enough for it to do the century sprint in 3.9 seconds (there’s Launch Control, too). Top speed is electronically limited to 225 km/h.

  

  Since the M50 variant has two electric motors, the axle load distribution is a little bit more ideal than the eDrive40, with a 48:52 split. The RWD eDrive40 is slightly heavier at the back, but still boasts a respectable 45:55 front-rear weight ratio.

  The pair shares the same 83.9 kWh lithium-ion battery pack (covered with an eight-year or 160,000 km warranty), which at full charge provides the i4 50M with a range of up to 510 km (WLTP cycle). Thanks to an integrated heating/cooling loop, the battery can be fast-charged at a rate of up to 200 kW (DC, CCS Combo 2 connection), so a 10-minute charge provides up to 140 km (164 km with the eDrive40) of range.

  The i4 ships with an 11 kW integrated AC charger (Type 2 connection) as standard, and charging at this rate will juice up the battery from 0% to 100% in just under 8.5 hours. The electric motor in both variants of the i4 is capable of handling up to 195 kW of regenerative braking. During regular use, the i4 M50 will run predominantly in rear-wheel drive mode, conserving energy and thus increasing range.

  

  

  Standard on this M Performance variant are adaptive M dampers with uprated springs, self-levelling rear air suspension, near-actuator wheel slip limiter, custom anti-roll bars and an additional spring strut tower brace, variable sport steering, M sport brakes, and wheel sizes from 18 to 20 inches (mixed sized tyres).

  The i4 M50 is dressed to impress, featuring a unique front apron with BMW M’s signature U-shaped graphic, additional side air intakes for better brake cooling, Cerium Grey kidney grille, and M-specific rear spoiler. Full LED headlights and tail lights are standard, though the former can be upgraded to adaptive units with BMW Laserlight and BMW Selective Beam function.

  At the back, it gets a model-specific rear bumper with an integrated diffuser, M spoiler lip, black window surrounds and black mirror caps. Exterior paint options include two solid colours, seven metallic shades and one Frozen Matte option. Special colours from the BMW Individual palette can also be specified.

  

  

  Moving inside, the i4 M50 gets the typical M Sport/Performance treatment, with appointments such as anthracite headlining, aluminium rhombicle trimmings, M Performance steering wheel, M Performance-specific graphics in the digital instrumentation, M seat belts, and stainless steel foot pedals.

  Speaking of which, the freestanding curved glass display layout is identical to the eDrive40, featuring a 12.3-inch meter panel that’s joined with the 14.9-inch infotainment display. The latter, which comes with BMW Operating System 8 as standard, is angled slightly towards the driver, and the entire display features an anti-reflective coating. This being a BMW i model, the logo on the steering wheel gets a blue outline, and the gearstick and push-start button are accented in blue.

  Sport seats are standard, with various upholstery options to choose from, including perforated Sensatec or Vernasca leather, as well as BMW Individual Merino leather that are available in several colours. Acoustic glass windscreen is standard, though the large panoramic roof remains an option. Boot space is 470 litres, and expands to 1,290 litres with the rear bench folded.

  

  All i4 models get an acoustic pedestrian protection system as standard, which is basically an artificially generated sound that’s produced by several exterior speakers. The sound comes on when driving at speeds below 21 km/h in Europe, or 31 km/h in the US. A special interior audio signature has also been developed in close collaboration with Hans Zimmer, the intensity of which increases in Sport mode.

  Lastly, the i4 ships with up to 40 driver assistance systems, enabling Level 2 semi autonomous driving. This includes Active Cruise Control with Stop and Go function, Speed Limit Assist, Front-Collision Warning with Pedestrian and Cyclist Detection, Rear-Collision Prevention, and Lane Departure Warning. The Driving Assistant Professional package adds Steering and Lane Control Assistant, operable at up to 180 km/h.

  GALLERY: BMW i4 M50

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  GALLERY: BMW Integrated Power Unit

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

   

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• 2022 BMW i4 eDrive40 – electric RWD four-door coupe with 340 PS & 430 Nm; 83.9 kWh battery, 590 km range

  In BMW, Cars, International News / By Matthew H Tong / 2 June 2021 1:50 pm / 6 comments

  

  The BMW i4 has finally made its global debut, and it is the first fully electric vehicle in its class. The four-door gran coupe will be available in two variants at launch, those being the eDrive40 and M50. The latter is the first fully electric car by BMW M, which means it’s only a matter of time before we see other electric models, including the i4 M, get added to the portfolio.

  Now, let’s go through some numbers. The i4 measures 4,785 mm long, 1,852 mm wide, 1,448 mm tall and has a rather lengthy wheelbase of 2,856 mm. It has 26 mm wider front tracks compared to the G20 3 Series, and the rear tracks are also wider by 13 mm. Thanks to the placement of the 83.9 kWh battery pack, the centre of gravity on the i4 is a staggering 53 mm lower compared to the 3er.

  The eDrive40 variant you see here is a rear-wheel drive model, so power comes from a single electric motor that’s fitted to the rear axle. This is still based on BMW’s fifth-generation eDrive technology, employing electronically excited synchronous motors (not magnetic, thus free of rare earth materials) that are integrated together with other power electronics and a single-speed transmission.

  
  

  The i4 has already appeared on BMW Malaysia’s website. Will it be coming soon?

  The eDrive40 gets a 250 kW power unit, which makes 340 PS and 430 Nm of torque. It will do the century sprint in 5.7 seconds before maxing out at an electronically-governed top speed of 190 km/h. Since the eDrive40 has just one electric motor, the weight distribution is 45.1:54.9.

  In terms of range, the 83.9 kWh battery (covered with an eight-year or 160,000 km warranty) is capable of providing up to 590 km of range (WLTP cycle). It supports up to 200 kW DC fast-charging (CCS Combo 2 connection), so a 10-minute charge time provides up to 164 km of range. The i4 ships with an 11 kW integrated AC charger (Type 2 connection) – charging at this rate will juice up the battery from 0% to 100% in under 8.5 hours. The electric motor is capable of handling up to 195 kW of regenerative braking.

  Keeping battery temperature in check is an integrated heating and cooling system. It takes into account various factors such as ambient temperature and mid-journey fast-charging sessions to precondition the temperature of the battery pack. It does this automatically via high efficiency pumps, and BMW says this can increase range efficiency by up to 31% when driving in urban traffic.

  

  Standard for the i4 is the lift-related damping system, which BMW says provides linear damping qualities and prevents excessive pitching when driving over large bumps. A self-levelling rear air suspension system is standard for both variants, though the adaptive M suspension is a cost option for the eDrive40 (standard on the M50).

  Design-wise, the i4 doesn’t veer too far off from the G22 4 Series counterpart. It’s slightly more voluminous due to the two extra rear doors, but otherwise the i4 and 4 Series are very similar visually. There’s the controversial full-height kidney grilles, slim vertical Air Curtain inlets at the corners of the front bumper, and slim full LED headlights as standard. Customers can opt for the adaptive LED lights with BMW Laserlight and BMW Selective Beam, too.

  Along the side, the i4 features the usual Gran Coupé sweeping roofline and six-window glasshouse, as well as the G22’s reinterpreted C-pillar Hoffmeister kink. Unique to it are the Air Breather vents, hockey stick side graphic, and flush door handles.

  

  At the back, you’ll see the inverted L-shaped tail lights that are carried over from the 4 Series, but it gets a unique rear bumper with an integrated diffuser. Wheel sizes range from 17 inches to 20 inches, and both debutants get wider rear tyres as standard. Larger M Sport brakes with 374 mm rotors can be had, too. Exterior paint options include two solid colours, seven metallic shades and one Frozen Matte option. Special colours from the BMW Individual palette can also be specified.

  The cabin, as you would have already seen from the leaks yesterday, is largely similar to the regular 4 Series. However, there is a key difference – the 12.3-inch instrument display and 14.9-inch infotainment screen are fitted together in a single, curved unit, and the glass display is anti-reflective. The i4 also ships with BMW Operating System 8 as standard. Other unique i4 elements are blue-ringed logo on the steering wheel, and blue accented gearstick and push-start button.

  Standard equipment here include the BMW Live Cockpit Professional, a three-zone automatic climate control system with nanofiltration, sport leather steering wheel, acoustic windscreen glass, LED ambient lighting, and a 100-watt six speaker sound system. This of course can be upgraded to a 205-watt 10-speaker system, or the top 16-speaker Harman Kardon sound system with a seven-channel amplifier and 464 watts of output.

  

  

  For M Sport and M Performance models, the cabin comes with gloss black or aluminium rhombicle anthracite inlays, though customers can specify other materials such as wood through BMW Individual. Sport seats are standard, wrapped in a combination of cloth and Sensatec leather. This can be upgraded to perforated Sensatec or Vernasca leather upholstery, as well as BMW Individual Merino leather that are available in varying colours. Boot space is 470 litres, and expands to 1,290 litres with the rear bench folded.

  Since it’s a fully electric car, the i4 comes with an acoustic pedestrian protection system, which is basically an artificially generated sound that’s produced by exterior speakers. The sound is active when driving up to 21 km/h in Europe, or 31 km/h in the US. A special interior audio signature has also been developed in close collaboration with Hans Zimmer, the intensity of which increases in Sport mode.

  Lastly, the i4 ships with up to 40 driver assistance systems, enabling Level 2 semi autonomous driving. This includes Active Cruise Control with Stop and Go function, Speed Limit Assist, Front-Collision Warning with Pedestrian and Cyclist Detection, Rear-Collision Prevention, and Lane Departure Warning. The Driving Assistant Professional package adds Steering and Lane Control Assistant, operable at up to 180 km/h.

  

  Other driving aids include Emergency Lane Assistant, Evasion Assistant, Road Priority Warning, Wrong-way Warning, as well as Parking Assistant, 360-degree camera and a head-up display. Production of the i4 takes place at the same Munich facility that makes combustion-engined BMW models, with electricity generated by hydroelectric power stations.

  When comparing total cost of maintenance, BMW says the i4 is about 30% cheaper to maintain than a comparable model with a combustion engine. This is after taking into account expenses on motor vehicle tax, insurance, maintenance and wear parts. There are no oil changes for the i4 and no exhaust system to service either, plus the brakes are subject to less strain because the motors help with deceleration. So, what do you think of the new i4?

  
  

  GALLERY: BMW i4 eDrive40

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  GALLERY: BMW Integrated Power Unit

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

   

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