All-electric BMW i5 eDrive40 launched in Malaysia

KUALA LUMPUR: BMW has expanded its EV range in Malaysia with the launch of a new all-electric sedan, the i5. This is an eco-friendly version of the BMW 5 Series and comes fully imported from Germany. The BMW i5 is offered in a sole eDrive40 M Sport trim, priced at RM 419,800 (on the road, without insurance. The price includes the extended warranty and service package.

Let’s know the full details of the new German EV in town - 

Powertrain, range, and charging 

The electric counterpart of the BMW 5 Series runs on a single rear-mounted motor generating a maximum power of 313 PS and a peak torque of 400 Nm. The output numbers can be increased to 340 PS and 430 Nm with the help of My Mode Sport and Sport Boost/Launch Control function. The EV runs from zero to 100 kmph in 6 seconds and achieves a top speed of 193 kmph. 

The BMW i5 offers an auditory delight with the Iconic Sounds Electric system crafted by acclaimed film music composer, Hans Zimmer. The said system provides authentic acoustic feedback dynamically and adapts according to the selected My Mode. 

At the heart of the EV lies a high-voltage 83.9kWh battery pack, which lets it cruise up to 582 km (WTLP) on a single charge. The Max Range function enhances efficiency by 25% by deactivating the comfort function and adjusting the power and speed limitations. The battery takes 8 hours and 15 minutes for a full charge when using the 11 kW AC wall box charger. However, the DC fast charging (up to 205 kW) does 10-80% job in 34 minutes only.

Exterior 

Dimensionally, the BMW i5 measures 5,060 mm in length, 1,900 mm in width, and 1,515 mm in height and spans 2,995 mm long wheelbase. It comes with an illuminated kidney grille and adaptive LED headlights incorporating vertical LED daytime running light graphics. Also, parts of the kit are LED tail lights, flush door handles, M high gloss Shadowline, M Sport package, and 21-inch wheels (Style 954 wheels in bi-colour jet black) mated to the Adaptive Suspension Pro system.

Interior

The BMW i5 cabin redefines modern luxury with a plethora of unique digital innovations. It comes equipped with the new BMW Operating System 8.5 supporting the BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant, BMW Maps, and the Digital Key Plus with security-optimised Ultra Wideband (UWB) radio technology. The EV also features an innovative flattened bottom section on the steering wheel. The other creature comforts include - 

• 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster
• 14.9-inch touchscreen infotainment unit
• Wireless smartphone charger
• Four-zone climate control
• 18-speaker Bowers & Wilkins sound system
• BMW Panorama Glass Roof
• BMW Interaction bar
• USB-C ports 

Safety 

The EV is also loaded with several advanced safety and driver support technologies, including 

• Proactive Care (a customer service system that offers services, including Condition Based Service, Accident Assistance (A-Call), Live Diagnosis, and Digital Tyre Diagnosis)
• Driving Assistance Professional package, combining Distance Control with Stop and Go function and Steering and Lane Control Assistant 
• Automatic Speed Limit Assist
• Route control and active navigation guidance
• Side Collision Protection
• Road Priority Warming and Wrong-way Warning
• Crossing-traffic Warning with braking function

Colour

The four exterior colour choices are - Black Sapphire Metallic, Mineral White Metallic, Brooklyn Grey Metallic, and Phytonic Blue Metallic. As for upholstery, buyers can choose between Leather Merino Black and Leather Merino Copper Brown.

Warranty package

BMW Malaysia offers the EV with a 5-year unlimited mileage warranty with a free scheduled service programme, an 8-year / 160,000 km battery warranty, BMW Roadside Assistance and Accident Hotline, and BMW Service Online. 

Upon introducing the BMW i5, Hans de Visser, Managing Director at BMW Group Malaysia expressed, “BMW Malaysia is thrilled to introduce the First-Ever All-Electric BMW i5 eDrive40, making monumental strides in the realm of Electric Mobility. This introduction serves as a remarkable milestone during our 20th year of delivering Sheer Driving Pleasure and is a testament to our achievement of becoming the Number One Premium EV provider in Malaysia, with the delivery of over 1,600 units of BMW, MINI, and BMW Motorrad EVs this year. By fostering meaningful partnerships with influential industry leaders, BMW Malaysia remains committed in its mission to shape the future of mobility in Malaysia. Today, we mark this significant milestone as a testament to BMW Malaysia's steadfast dedication to driving electrification forward within our nation. With the introduction of the First-Ever All-Electric BMW i5 eDrive40, we not only extend our BMW i fleet but also introduce cutting-edge innovations that will propel our journey toward a sustainable and electrified future.” 

Also read: Price confirmed for 2023 BMW 750e xDrive M Sport in Malaysia