BMW is injecting fresh vigor into its electric lineup, particularly its best-selling EV, the BMW i4. This year’s EV updates are headlined by a new king of the i4 range: the formidable BMW M60 xDrive. This model isn’t just an incremental step; it’s a significant leap, replacing the already potent i4 M50 xDrive and setting a new benchmark for electric performance within the BMW family.
The heart of the i4 M60 xDrive lies in its sophisticated dual-motor powertrain, with one electric motor dedicated to each axle, delivering exhilarating all-wheel-drive performance. This setup churns out a staggering 593 horsepower (442 kilowatts). To put this into perspective, that’s a substantial 56 hp more than its predecessor, the i4 M50, and remarkably, 50 hp more than the BMW M4 CS – the most powerful street-legal iteration of the revered petrol-powered 4 Series. This power surge translates directly into thrilling acceleration, with BMW claiming a 0 to 62 mph (100 km/h) sprint time of just 3.7 seconds. Such figures firmly place the i4 M60 xDrive in the realm of high-performance sports cars, all while delivering zero tailpipe emissions.
While raw power is a key draw, electric vehicle enthusiasts also prioritize driving range. The BMW i4 M60 xDrive is projected to offer a WLTP (Worldwide Harmonised Light Vehicle Test Procedure) estimated range of 269 miles (433 km) on a full battery. It’s important to note that WLTP figures tend to be more optimistic than those from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), which are still awaited. However, this provides a solid indication of its capabilities for daily driving and longer journeys. The balance between extreme performance and practical electric car range is a critical aspect of this flagship model.
| Model Comparison | Horsepower (hp) | Key Performance Note |
|---|---|---|
| BMW i4 M60 xDrive (New) | 593 hp | 0-62 mph in 3.7s |
| BMW i4 M50 xDrive (Outgoing) | 537 hp | Replaced by M60 |
| BMW M4 CS (Petrol) | 543 hp | Most powerful petrol 4 Series |
While the BMW M60 xDrive grabs headlines with its sheer power, BMW hasn’t overlooked the core of the i4 lineup. Significant EV updates also extend to the entry-level models, focusing on enhancing electric car range and overall efficiency, coupled with improved owner benefits.
The two-wheel drive BMW i4 eDrive35 and eDrive40 models are receiving a notable technological upgrade with the introduction of new silicon carbide (SiC) semiconductor components. SiC technology is a game-changer in power electronics, known for its ability to reduce energy losses, improve thermal management, and operate at higher efficiencies compared to traditional silicon components. For i4 owners, this translates directly into tangible benefits: an approximate 4.5% reduction in energy consumption. This efficiency boost results in an increased driving range of about 13 to 14 miles for these models. Specifically, the i4 eDrive35 now boasts a WLTP range of 266 miles, while the i4 eDrive40 can achieve an impressive 317 miles (510 km) on a full charge, making them even more compelling options for everyday usability.
| BMW i4 Model | New WLTP Range | Key Update & Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| i4 eDrive35 | 266 miles | SiC components, +13-14 miles range |
| i4 eDrive40 | 317 miles (510 km) | SiC components, +13-14 miles range |
| i4 M60 xDrive | 269 miles (433 km) | New performance flagship |
BMW is further bolstering owner confidence by enhancing its high-voltage battery warranty coverage for all its EVs in the United States. The warranty now extends to vehicles less than eight years old and with less than 100,000 miles, an increase from the previous 80,000-mile limit. During this period, BMW commits to repairing an EV’s high-voltage battery if its capacity drops below 70%, a policy that applies to both new and used vehicles. This improved warranty underscores BMW’s commitment to the longevity and reliability of its electric vehicle technology.
The updated BMW i4 models are slated to enter production in July, with customer deliveries commencing shortly thereafter. These enhancements build upon last year’s updates, which included a subtle exterior redesign and a minor range boost. The i4’s popularity is undeniable; in the U.S., it stands as BMW’s best-selling EV, with 7,125 units sold in the first quarter of this year alone, marking a robust 57% year-over-year increase. These latest EV updates are poised to further fuel this sales momentum.
| Battery Warranty Aspect (U.S.) | Previous Coverage | Updated Coverage |
|---|---|---|
| Mileage Limit | 80,000 miles | 100,000 miles |
| Age Limit | 8 years | 8 years (unchanged) |
| Capacity Threshold for Repair | Below 70% | Below 70% (unchanged) |
