Pull out your checkbooks, and write P4.490 million for this all-electric mid-size sedan, the first BMW model in the Philippines with the ConnectedDrive. Anxious about the range? Well, this car can run for up to 483 km in between charges (WLTP cycle).
The BMW i4 eDrive35 four-door gran coupe was launched Jan. 19 in the Karrera Showroom at Corporate Woods Avenue in Alabang, Muntinlupa City.
Two thumbs up for this variant’s premium vegan interiors. Its kindness shows with the use of Sensatec Perforated upholstery, which means no animal byproducts were used. Thus, in its creation, this BMW sedan did not participate, directly nor indirectly, in the cruel animal farming industry.
The tire brand is also vegan, using the Michelin brand. Michelin is probably the only tire brand that sources its stearic acid entirely from plants.
Let’s just say the same progressive-minded team that put the iconic German badge on the global map has created a future-proof EV with a compassionate heart.
As technologically endowed this BMW may be, what gladdens the heart is that the carmaker is consciously foregoing the use of animal-derived interiors, so that not only do we humans experience the ultimate joy and prestige of new-energy driving, but also all the other animals get to continue their own life journeys, as well.
The BMW i4 eDrive35 registers an electric power consumption of 18.7 to 15.8 kWh/100 km (in the WLTP cycle), and combines a 286 hp electric motor with classical rear-wheel drive.
The BMW i4 eDrive35 comes with a 5-year comprehensive BMW Warranty, a 6-year BMW Service Inclusive package, an 8-year high voltage battery warranty, and a Wallbox charger installed by a BMW i partner in the customer’s home.
SMC Asia Car Distributors Corp, the official importer and distributor of BMW in the Philippines, presented this first all-electric premium sedan with an eye for the traditional core of the midsize segment.
Drive system tech
The BMW i4 features the fifth generation eDrive technology integrating the electric motor, power electronics, and transmission for efficient performance. Its electric motors employ electrically excited synchronous motor principles, delivering substantial torque of 400 Nm and enabling the BMW i4 eDrive35 to accelerate from 0 to 100 kph in 6 seconds. The car’s adaptive recuperation system enhances efficiency by adjusting brake energy recuperation based on real-time data, and the high-voltage battery incorporates the latest cell technology with an integrated heating and cooling system for optimal performance, including anticipatory thermal management for efficient fast charging.
BMW ConnectedDrive
Starting with the BMW i4 eDrive35, select BMW models coming in 2024 will include ConnectedDrive, which will make the MyBMW App available, enabling remote control of vehicle functions and accessing vital vehicle information to ensure users remain informed and in control by simply using a smartphone. The host of services that come with this feature also include Remote Software Update to facilitate wireless software updates. These features, along with numerous other exciting capabilities, converge to create a technologically advanced driving experience.
The BMW i4 boasts advanced chassis technology, including a specially designed front and rear axle, custom tuning, and integrated braking for optimal traction and stability. Its quick and precise system enhances performance during acceleration and turns, offering exceptional dynamic capabilities with electric rear-wheel drive.
Exclusivity and dynamic flair
The i4’s body design communicates a sense of exclusivity and dynamic flair through its stretched proportions and clear use of forms. The defining features on the front end include BMW LED headlights and the striking BMW kidney grille. Short overhangs, slim pillars, frameless windows, and a seamlessly flowing roofline into the rear underscore the model’s silhouette, aligning perfectly with the BMW coupé mold.
Furthermore, sustainability-friendly credentials are emphasized through accents in BMW i Blue for the kidney grille, the incorporation of battery technology in the car’s floor area, and sporty diffuser elements optimizing aerodynamics. The side of the vehicle highlights exterior line aluminum with a satin finish, complemented by 19” aerodynamic wheels styled in 855 bicolor with mixed tires.
The BMW i4 eDrive35 offers three colors: Alpine White, Black Sapphire, and Skyscraper Grey.
Driver-focused cockpit
Inside, the driver-focused cockpit and luxurious ambiance converge with a generously sized, variable-use space. Standard features include acoustic glazing, pre-heating, and pre-conditioning, complemented by sport seats and a sports steering wheel.
The center console hosts the transmission selector lever, BMW Controller, and function keys, storage shelf for wireless charging, all contributing to a modern yet functional design aesthetic.
Sport seats for both the driver and front passenger feature Sensatec perforated upholstery in either Black or Tacora Red, accentuated by aluminum mesh interior trim finishers that add a stylish touch to the overall design. Enhancing the driving experience, a model-specific drive sound provides authentic feedback to accelerator movements, giving the BMW i4 eDrive35 an energy-charged soundtrack. Furthermore, the integration of BMW IconicSounds Electric introduces new sound variants developed in collaboration with film music composer Hans Zimmer.
In the rear, the large tailgate boasts an automatic opening and closing mechanism as a standard feature, providing convenient access to up to 1,290 liters of load compartment capacity.
Assistance functions are fitted as standard to provide safe and comfortable driving and parking. The reversing assist camera and the parking assistant with reversing assistant are fitted as standard.
Story, photos and video by Tessa R. Salazar