BMW i5 EV launching soon in Malaysia

KUALA LUMPUR: BMW Malaysia recently previewed the i7 electric sedan at the 'Forwardism, by BMW' event and now it is geared for the launch of the all-electric i5. The automaker has updated the i5 model page on its official website, revealing the EV’s preliminary specifications.

The electric version of the BMW 5 Series sedan will be offered in two variants in Malaysia - eDrive40 and M60 xDrive. The BMW i5 eDrive40 is equipped with a single RWD electric motor generating a maximum power of 340 PS and a peak torque of 400 Nm. The EV completes the century sprint in 6 seconds before attaining a top speed of 193 kmph.  Feeding the electric motor is an 81.2 kWh battery pack, which lets the EV cruise up to 582 km (on the WLTP cycle).

The BMW i5 M60 xDrive, on the other hand, runs on a dual-motor AWD setup that is capable of generating 601 PS and 795 Nm, allowing the electric sedan to run from 0 to 100 kmph in just 3.8 seconds and clock a top speed of 230 kmph. The top-spec i5 also gets an 81.2 kWh battery unit, but here we get a driving range of 516 km.

Speaking about the charging time, the battery juices up in 4.25 hours when using a 22 kW AC charger. The EV also supports DC charging up to 205 kW, which charges 10 to 80% battery in 30 minutes only.

In terms of features, the BMW i5 will come loaded with a dual-widescreen curved display mated to BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant and the latest BMW Operating System 8.5, and in-car gaming. 

Parts of the driver-assistance kit will be Driving Assistant Professional pack (with Steering and Lane Control Assist and Distance Control), Highway Assistant (as per market regulations permit), Active Lane Change Assistant, and Parking Assistant with Reverse Assist.

BMW is yet to announce the i5 price for the Malaysian market. 

Also read: BMW Premium Selection customers to enjoy enhanced ownership experience in Malaysia