As more and more car manufacturers get into the electric mobility market, BMW is pushing forward in South Africa by launching the ix, i4 and iX3 all fully electric.
The BMW i4 is a four door gran coupe which combines BMW’s sporting ability with practicality. The BMW i4 M50 is the performance model with one electric motor at the front axle and another at the rear to deliver system output of 400 kW and a range of 510 kms emission free driving. The i4 carries extremely slim high-voltage battery with a cell height of just 110mm and is positioned down low in the vehicles floor. The centre of gravity is 53mm lower than that of the BMW 3-series sedan with even weight distribution and optimised aerodynamics.
The standard chassis technology of the i4 comprises a double-joint spring strut front axle and five-link rear axle with bespoke tuning, lift-related dampers, electromechanical Servotronic steering, integrated braking system and rear air suspension. On pull away the torque is considerable over an extremely wide rev band demanding a large amount of power for more than 10 seconds in the BMW i4 M50 which triggers sport boost, which infuris not only the drive system’s maximum output, but also maximum torque of 795 Nm. This enables the M model to sprint from 0-100kms/h in 3.9 seconds and top speed of 225 km/h.
The gravimetric energy density of the lithium-ion battery has been increased by around 20 percent in comparison to the current i3 battery producing energy content of the high voltage battery of 83.9 kWh.
On a short mid-journey stop at a high-power charging station, the car’s range can be increased by as much as 140 kms within 10 minutes from a 10 percent charging level.
The i4 offers many luxury premium features such as the sports steering wheel, sports seats, a glass slide/tilt sunroof, ambient lighting, electrically extendable and retractable trailer tow, and Harman Kardon Surround Sound System. A wide variety of driver assist functions are fitted as standard including Active Cruise Control, Automatic Speed Limit Assist, route monitoring and steering and Lane Control Assist.
The BMW i4 will be sold in South Africa with a complimentary Wallbox charger and free charging at any BMW Group=branded charging stations.
All this for only R1,600,000.
The iX3 introduces fresh design accents and modern technology for an all- electric mid-sized Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV). First model to feature BMW eDrive technology and increased range of 460 kms. Front end boasts a larger kidney shaped grille with slimmer sculpted headlights.
Sports seats in the new Vernasca leather upholstery variant and interior trim strips in the new aluminium Rhombicle dark finish come as standard. BMWi blue accents on the gear selector lever, Start/Stop button, and steering wheel. Maximum output of 210 kW and peak torque of 400 Nm. Top speed of 180 km/h and acceleration from 0-100 km/h in 6.8 seconds. The iX3 also has a wide selection of driver assist systems as standard.
Again, the BMW iX3 is sold with a complimentary Wallbox charger and free charging at BMW Group-branded charging stations.
Price: R1,290,000
