The 2020 Geneva International Motor Show was canceled due to the coronavirus outbreak. However, that hasn’t stopped the debut of a near-production version of the BMW all-electric i4. With up to 530 horsepower and an EPA-estimated range of 270 miles, the concept vehicle threatens to become a Tesla Model 3 competitor. The i4 is also notable for its ability to go from 9 to 62 mph in four seconds.

Despite its canceling, the Geneva Motor Show went on in digital form on March 5 and 6, six years after the debut of the BMW i3, the most widely sold compact electric vehicle (more than 165,000 have been sold worldwide). The car’s debut also comes near the end of the production run of the BMW i8 Coupe and Roadster.

All-Electric Luxury Sedan

The rose-gold colored i4 offers a sleek package and adds impressive power and range to the luxury EV market. Standout features of the model include:

• 530 Horsepower: A battery pack that BMW has reported to be around 80.0 kWh will deliver the energy needed to reach impressive power. The motor delivers a maximum output estimated to be around 390 kW. In addition, an onboard charger with a rumored 150 kW fast-charging capability would provide an 80% charge in 35 minutes. That would make it competitive with the Tesla’s 250 kW supercharger.

 

• EPA-Estimated Range of 270 miles: In fact, BMW has claimed the i4 will have a 372-mile driving range, based on the European WLTP cycle. Others have estimated a more realistic 300 to 320 miles or less.

 

• Top Speed: The EV’s top speed will be around 125 miles per hour, with a 0 to 62 mph acceleration time of about four seconds. That’s better performance than some gas-powered cars!

 

• Styling: On its exterior, the i4 has a BMW trademark kidney grille, which serves as a decoration rather than a functional element, as no air passes through. Air is instead drawn in from below the front bumper to cool the battery and power the air conditioning. Aside from hidden air channels, sleek headlights, concept wheels, and other unique elements define the feel of this electrified vehicle model.

The interior curved rectangular touchscreen contains four widgets and references the car’s own interior design. The widgets line up alongside maps and can be arranged via drag-and-drop. These elements come closer together in “Sport” mode, which helps anticipate tight corners, while in “Efficient” mode, the screen shows continuous input from the car’s sensors.

Inside are gray fabrics and surfaces, highlighted by a gold finish that mimics the exterior of the vehicle.

How It Compares to the Tesla Model 3

BMW is aiming to compete with the Tesla Model 3, although the i4’s battery charging power, though strong, won’t be quite as powerful. The Tesla, most notably, delivers 0 to 60 acceleration in 3.2 seconds and has a range of 322 miles. Independent motors drive the front and rear wheels and can respond to changes within milliseconds. Its ultrasonic sensors, forward-facing radar, and rear, side, and forward-facing cameras enhance the driving experience, as does a 15-inch touchscreen display.

The BMW i4 luxury sedan may be the brand’s answer to reaching for Tesla’s success on the road. It offers a plethora of technological functions for the driver, including a large infotainment touchscreen.

The i4 may not be on the market yet, but at CarWorld, we offer other pre-owned hybrid and electric cars. Browse our inventory online, get approved for financing, or contact us at 833-219-995 to speak with one of our knowledgeable automotive representatives.