The BMW i4 eDrive35, introduced in July 2024 as part of the G26 LCI (Life Cycle Impulse) facelift, represents the entry point into the all-electric i4 Gran Coupe lineup. Positioned below the i4 eDrive40 and the M50, the eDrive35 offers a balance of performance, range, and affordability within the BMW electric vehicle portfolio. It builds upon the foundation of the i4 platform, which debuted in 2021, incorporating updates from the LCI refresh. The i4 eDrive35 is primarily targeted towards buyers seeking a premium electric vehicle experience with a focus on efficiency and everyday usability, rather than outright performance.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | BMW |
| Model | i4 |
| Generation | i4 (G26 LCI, facelift 2024) |
| Type (Engine) | 70.3 kWh (286 Hp) eDrive35 |
| Start of production | July, 2024 |
| Powertrain Architecture | BEV (Electric Vehicle) |
| Body type | Coupe |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel Type | Electricity |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 5.7 sec |
| Maximum speed | 190 km/h (118.06 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7 kg/Hp, 143 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5 kg/Nm, 200 Nm/tonne |
| Gross battery capacity | 70.3 kWh |
| Net (usable) battery capacity | 67.1 kWh |
| Battery voltage | 353 V |
| Battery technology | Lithium-ion (Li-Ion) |
| Battery weight | 550 kg (1212.54 lbs) |
| Battery location | Below the floor |
| All-electric range (WLTP) | 406-500 km (252.28 – 310.69 mi) |
| Average Energy consumption (WLTP) | 15.1-18.6 kWh/100 km (24.3 – 29.93 kWh/100 mi) |
| Average Energy consumption (MPGe) | 139 – 113 |
| Average Energy consumption (km/kWh) | 6.6 – 5.4 |
| Average Energy consumption (mi/kWh) | 4.1 – 3.3 |
| Electric motor power | 286 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Electric motor Torque | 400 Nm @ 0-4500 rpm (295.02 lb.-ft. @ 0-4500 rpm) |
| Electric motor model/code | HA0001N0 |
| Electric motor location | Rear axle, Transverse |
| Electric motor type | Synchronous |
| System power | 286 Hp |
| System torque | 400 Nm (295.02 lb.-ft.) |
| Kerb Weight | 2000 kg (4409.25 lbs) |
| Max. weight | 2555 kg (5632.81 lbs) |
| Max load | 555 kg (1223.57 lbs) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 470 l (16.6 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1290 l (45.56 cu. ft.) |
| Max. roof load | 75 kg (165.35 lbs) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1600 kg (3527.4 lbs) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs) |
| Permitted towbar download | 75 kg (165.35 lbs) |
| Length | 4783 mm (188.31 in) |
| Width | 1852 mm (72.91 in) |
| Width including mirrors | 2073 mm (81.61 in) |
| Height | 1448 mm (57.01 in) |
| Wheelbase | 2856 mm (112.44 in) |
| Front track | 1601 mm (63.03 in) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1630 mm (64.17 in) |
| Front overhang | 862 mm (33.94 in) |
| Rear overhang | 1065 mm (41.93 in) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 125 mm (4.92 in) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.24 |
| Minimum turning circle | 12.5 m (41.01 ft) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | One electric motor drives the rear wheels |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 1 |
| Gearbox type | Automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Spring Strut, Transverse stabilizer |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension, Air suspension, Transverse stabilizer |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 225/55 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 7.5J x 17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The i4 eDrive35 utilizes a single electric motor, designated HA0001N0, driving the rear wheels. This motor produces 286 horsepower and 400 Nm (295 lb-ft) of torque. The motor is a synchronous design, known for its efficiency and smooth power delivery. Power is drawn from a 70.3 kWh (gross) / 67.1 kWh (net) lithium-ion battery pack located under the vehicle floor. The battery operates at 353 volts. The single-speed automatic transmission is a standard feature, providing seamless acceleration. The powertrain is designed for optimal efficiency, contributing to the i4 eDrive35’s competitive range of 406-500 km (252-311 miles) based on the WLTP cycle.
Driving Characteristics
The i4 eDrive35 offers a comfortable and refined driving experience. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph takes approximately 5.7 seconds, making it adequately quick for everyday driving. While not as rapid as the i4 eDrive40 or M50, the eDrive35 provides sufficient power for highway merging and overtaking. The single-speed transmission ensures smooth and linear acceleration. The rear-wheel-drive configuration contributes to balanced handling, although it may require more careful throttle control in slippery conditions compared to all-wheel-drive variants. The low center of gravity, thanks to the battery pack’s placement, enhances stability and cornering ability.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The i4 eDrive35 comes standard with a comprehensive suite of features, including BMW’s iDrive 8 infotainment system with a curved display, automatic climate control, and a range of driver-assistance systems such as lane departure warning and forward collision warning. Interior upholstery typically consists of Sensatec artificial leather, with options for genuine leather upgrades. Standard exterior features include LED headlights and 17-inch alloy wheels. Optional extras include a premium sound system, a head-up display, and various interior trim packages.
Chassis & Braking
The i4 eDrive35 features a spring strut front suspension with a transverse stabilizer, and an independent multi-link rear suspension with air suspension and a transverse stabilizer. This suspension setup provides a comfortable ride while maintaining good handling characteristics. Ventilated disc brakes are used on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. The car is equipped with ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and electronic stability control for enhanced safety.
Market Reception & Comparison
The i4 eDrive35 has been generally well-received by automotive critics as an accessible entry point into the i4 lineup. It’s praised for its comfortable ride, efficient powertrain, and well-appointed interior. Compared to the i4 eDrive40, the eDrive35 offers a lower price point but sacrifices some performance and range. Compared to other electric vehicles in its class, such as the Tesla Model 3, the i4 eDrive35 is often noted for its more premium interior and refined driving experience. Fuel economy, expressed as energy consumption, ranges from 15.1 to 18.6 kWh per 100 km (24.3 to 29.93 kWh per 100 miles).
Legacy
As a relatively new model, the long-term reliability of the i4 eDrive35 is still being established. However, BMW has a strong reputation for build quality and engineering, suggesting that the i4 eDrive35 should prove to be a reliable vehicle. The electric powertrain is expected to require minimal maintenance compared to traditional internal combustion engines. On the used car market, the i4 eDrive35 is expected to hold its value well, particularly as demand for electric vehicles continues to grow. Its combination of practicality, performance, and premium features should make it a desirable option for buyers seeking a well-rounded electric vehicle.
