The BMW i5 is the latest addition to the German automaker's lineup of electric vehicles, and it aims to take on Tesla with its blend of performance, technology, and style. The BMW i5 is based on the BMW i Vision Dynamics concept that debuted in 2017, and it features a sleek four-door coupe body with a spacious interior and a futuristic dashboard. The BMW i5 also boasts a powerful electric powertrain that can deliver up to 536 horsepower and 406 pound-feet of torque and a range of up to 373 miles on a single charge.
Dynamic Design
The BMW i5 is designed to stand out from the crowd with its distinctive appearance that combines elegance and sportiness. The front end features a large kidney grille that houses various sensors for driver assistance systems, as well as slim LED headlights that give the car a sharp look. The side profile showcases the coupe-like roofline that flows into a muscular rear end with a spoiler and LED taillights. The i5 also has frameless doors that open wide for easy access, as well as flush door handles that pop out when needed.
The i5 rides on 20-inch alloy wheels that are aerodynamically optimized to reduce drag and improve efficiency. The car also has an adaptive air suspension that can adjust the ride height depending on the driving mode and road conditions. The i5 is available in six exterior colors: Alpine White, Black Sapphire Metallic, Mineral Grey Metallic, Phytonic Blue Metallic, Sunset Orange Metallic, and Frozen Portimao Blue Metallic.
Digital Features
The BMW i5 is packed with digital features that enhance the driving experience and provide convenience and connectivity. The interior is dominated by a curved display that spans from behind the steering wheel to the center console, integrating both the instrument cluster and the infotainment system. The display has a high-resolution touchscreen that can be controlled by touch, gesture, voice, or a rotary controller on the center console. Depending on the driver's preferences, the display can also be customized to show different information and functions.
The i5 also has a head-up display that projects key information onto the windshield, such as speed, navigation, and warnings. The car also has a digital key feature that allows the driver to unlock and start the car using their smartphone or smartwatch. The i5 also supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, as well as over-the-air software updates that can add new features and improve performance.
The i5 also comes with a range of driver assistance systems that make driving safer and easier. These include adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go function, lane keeping assist, blind spot detection, rear cross-traffic alert, parking assist with a surround view camera, collision warning with automatic braking, and more. The i5 also has a level 2 autonomous driving system called Driving Assistant Professional that can take over steering, braking, and acceleration on highways and in traffic jams.
Electric Powertrain
The BMW i5 is powered by an electric powertrain that consists of two electric motors, one on each axle, that provide all-wheel drive capability. The electric motors are fed by a 105 kWh battery pack that is located under the floor of the car, lowering the center of gravity and improving handling. The battery pack can be charged from 10% to 80% in about 30 minutes using a 200 kW fast charger or an 11 kW home charger in about eight hours.
The i5 has three driving modes: Eco Pro, Comfort, and Sport. Eco Pro mode maximizes efficiency by reducing power output and limiting the top speed to 87 mph. Comfort mode provides a balanced performance with smooth acceleration and responsive handling. Sport mode unleashes the full potential of the electric powertrain by increasing power output and sharpening steering and suspension settings.
The BMW i5 can accelerate from 0 to 62 mph in just 4 seconds and reach a top speed of 124 mph. The car also has a range of up to 373 miles on the WLTP cycle, or about 300 miles on the EPA cycle. The i5 also has regenerative braking that can recover up to 30% of the energy lost during deceleration.
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Pricing and Availability
The BMW i5 will go on sale in Europe soon, followed by other markets later in the year. The BMW i5 electric car will have a starting price of €79,900 (about $90,000) in Germany, which includes VAT and destination charges. Depending on the country, the car will also be eligible for various incentives and tax credits.
The BMW i5 is a compelling alternative to Tesla Model S and Model 3 and other electric vehicles from Audi, Mercedes-Benz, Porsche, and Volvo. The BMW i5 offers a dynamic design, digital features, and an electric powertrain, making it an attractive choice for customers who want a premium electric vehicle with performance, technology, and style.
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