Here’s a first proper look at the new BMW i5 - the first ever fully-electric 5 Series.
The i5 will slot into BMW’s range of electric vehicles between the i4 gran coupe and the luxurious i7 limo, and it’s expected to arrive in the spring of next year.
The i5 is seen here being put through its paces in the wintry conditions of both the European Alps and the Arctic Circle region of Sweden.
Those low temperatures have given BMW’s engineers time to fine-tune the i5’s battery, making sure it can still get you down the road when the mercury drops, and to also test the car’s handling in slippery conditions.
While the precise details of the i5’s powertrain have yet to be revealed, it’s likely to get a range of around 350 miles between charges - with the smaller i4 having a maximum range of 365 miles.
BMW also says the i5 will have a full suite of sophisticated software designed to keep you rubber-side down.
A spokesperson for the German firm says:
“The innovative powertrain and chassis control systems on board the new BMW i5 do a great deal to optimise its traction, dynamism and driving stability, and nowhere is this more apparent than on a solid blanket of snow, icy mountain roads or frozen lakes. It was only right that the dynamic winter testing of the purely electrically powered sedan recently finished exactly where it began: in the biting cold of the BMW Group’s winter test centre at Arjeplog, northern Sweden.”
Those systems include a near-actuator wheel slip limitation function that’s linked with drive torque control, which means you get optimum power at the wheels that need it most.
A BMW spokesperson adds:
“As a result, the all-electric sedan performs at least as proficiently as any conventionally powered model on ice and snow.”
When the i5 makes it to leasing platforms, the electric BMW will compete with the likes of the Mercedes-Benz EQE, Tesla Model S, the top end of the Tesla Model 3 range, and the Porsche Taycan.
Ahead of the i5’s arrival, you can currently lease the regular BMW 5 Series from around £531 per month* - and there’s a frugal plug-in hybrid model which has a range of up to 35 miles using electricity alone.
*Prices include VAT. Credit is Subject to Status, Ts and Cs and Arrangement Fees apply. Excess mileage may apply. Stock levels and prices correct as of 29/03/23.
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