BMW has achieved a major milestone in its journey towards electrification by producing the first i5 premium electric sedan at its Dingolfing plant in Germany. Milan Nedeljković, a member of BMW’s Board of Management and responsible for production, stated that e-mobility is becoming the new normal at their plants worldwide. BMW plans to integrate a total of 15 fully-electric vehicles into its production network between 2021 and 2024.
The introduction of the i5 sedan, which is based on the iconic 5 series, is a significant step in BMW’s transition to electric vehicles. However, it comes with a high price tag. The Australian prices for the two EV variants in the i5 lineup were recently announced: $155,900 for the i5 eDrive40 and $215,900 for the i5 M60 xDrive.
The i5 eDrive40 variant boasts a rear-mounted motor that delivers 250 kW of power and 430 Nm of torque. It can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 6 seconds and has a top speed of 193 km/h. On the other hand, the more powerful i5 M60 xDrive produces 442 kW of power and 820 Nm of torque, allowing it to sprint to 100 km/h in just 3.8 seconds.
Both variants are equipped with the same 84 kWh battery pack, providing a WLTP range of 582 km for the i5 eDrive40 and up to 516 km for the i5 M60 xDrive due to its all-wheel-drive setup.
The production of the i5 sedan signifies BMW’s commitment to a smooth transition into the electric vehicle market. Known for making the “ultimate driving machine,” BMW aims to maintain its reputation while embracing the future of mobility.
The two BMW i5 variants are expected to arrive in Australia before the end of 2023. This release will contribute to the growing availability of electric vehicles in the Australian market.
Riz Akhtar, the founder of carloop, a company specializing in Australian EV data and trends, shared insights into the Australian electric vehicle market. As a mechanical engineer with a passion for cars, particularly EVs, Riz aims to help reduce transport emissions in Australia and currently drives a red Tesla Model 3.
Major EV Milestone Reached as BMW Commences Production of All-Electric i5 Sedan
In a significant step forward for the electric vehicle (EV) industry, renowned automobile manufacturer BMW has officially commenced production of its highly anticipated all-electric i5 sedan, marking a major milestone in the company’s commitment to sustainable mobility. As the demand for emission-free vehicles continues to rise, BMW’s bold move to mass-produce the i5 showcases its determination to stay at the forefront of the evolving automotive landscape.
The i5 sedan, which is part of BMW’s iconic “i” brand, embodies the company’s vision for a greener future in the automotive sector. Leveraging their expertise in battery technology and electric drivetrain systems, BMW aims to deliver superior performance, exceptional driving dynamics, and a sustainable driving experience with the i5.
This landmark achievement arrives at a crucial time. As climate change concerns continue to dominate global discourse, transitioning to electric vehicles has become an urgent priority. With governments across the globe pushing for stricter emissions regulations and setting ambitious sustainability goals, the pressure on automakers to invest in EV development has intensified. BMW’s introduction of the i5 serves as a testament to their unwavering commitment to eco-friendly technology.
The i5 sedan represents a significant leap forward for BMW, building upon the success of its predecessors, the i3 and i4 models. By incorporating cutting-edge technology and innovative design elements, BMW strives to redefine luxury electric vehicles. The i5 is expected to offer a remarkable driving range on a single charge, making it a practical option for daily commutes, long-distance travel, and everything in between.
One of the key elements that sets the i5 apart from its competitors is BMW’s commitment to sustainable manufacturing practices. The automaker’s state-of-the-art factories utilize renewable energy sources, ensuring that the production process aligns with their environmentally friendly goals. By incorporating ecologically conscious methods, BMW further solidifies its dedication to sustainability throughout the entire lifecycle of their vehicles.
BMW’s decision to enter full-scale production of the i5 sedan also highlights the growing viability and popularity of electric vehicles. This move not only boosts their own market presence but signals to other automakers that the future lies in embracing EV technology. With its stylish design, advanced features, and commendable performance, the i5 sets the bar high for the entire electric vehicle industry, pushing the boundaries for what is possible in this rapidly evolving sector.
Furthermore, BMW’s move to enter the electric market demonstrates that automakers understand the changing dynamics of consumer preferences. As more consumers prioritize sustainability and eco-conscious choices, electric vehicles have gained widespread popularity. By offering a luxurious and technologically advanced option with their i5 sedan, BMW is catering to discerning customers who seek both high performance and environmental responsibility.
The introduction of the i5 sedan represents an important milestone for BMW. By investing in the research, development, and production of this all-electric vehicle, the company showcases its commitment to sustainable mobility, cutting-edge technology, and meeting the evolving needs of its customers. This major EV milestone sets the stage for a new era in the automotive industry, where electric vehicles become the norm rather than the exception.
As BMW paves the way for a greener future, it inspires other manufacturers to follow suit and expedite the transition to electric vehicles. With the BMW i5 now in production, the automotive world eagerly awaits the positive impact it will have on the market, the environment, and the collective effort to combat climate change.