The 2024 BMW i5’s Range Is More Than Enough
The BMW 5 Series has a reputation for performance and luxury. In contrast to comfort-oriented, flashy competitors, this German sports sedan has athletic moves and an understated style. For the 2024 model year, a redesign makes it even better.
The key to that is the all-electric i5. As the first combustion-free 5 Series, it has much to live up to. However, with BMW’s engineering know-how and impressive specs, it looks up to the task. Still, some might worry about the range of the BMW i5. Still, with plenty of distance between charges, the new i5 can travel far and wide. And with two trims to choose from, buyers can opt for greater efficiency or sports car dynamics.
The 2024 BMW i5 is a high-tech sports sedan for the electric age
Electric vehicles offer many benefits. Zero emissions, instant torque, and quiet performance are just a few. That’s why making an electric 5 Series just makes sense. Like the gas-powered 5 Series, the i5 has a thorough design inside and out. The bodywork is long, taut, and modern. The interior uses enhanced tech and high-quality materials for a futuristic, plush feel. And with Highway Assistant, drivers can experience hands-free travel.
However, the centerpiece of the i5 is its electric powertrain. For 2024, BMW offers two i5 models: the eDrive40 and the M60. Both models use an 84.3 kWh Li-Ion battery pack. It can go from 10% to 80% charge when connected to DC fast charging. That’s convenient on any trip. However, from there, the two models diverge. While the eDrive40 aims for everyday efficiency, the M60 focuses on track-ready dynamics.
The eDrive40 uses a single-motor RWD setup. With 335 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque, it can hit 60 mph in only 5.7 seconds. Even then, this electric sports sedan can go 295 miles between charges. Inside, ambient lighting, available glass controls, and a Harmon Kardon sound system create an ideal driving environment.
Meanwhile, the M60 ups the excitement with its motorsport-inspired specs. That starts with a dual-motor AWD powertrain. 590 hp and 586 lb-ft of torque result in a 3.7 second 0-60 mph time. Those are supercar stats. However, all that performance requires energy, resulting in a reduced 256-mile range. Even then, a 39-mile decrease in range may be worth it to some for the bonafide performance stats.
Additional M60 features include adaptive M suspension that keeps things flat in the corners, monoblock M-Sport brakes that provide racecar stopping power, and the standard Bowers & Wilkins sound system that provides crystal-clear playback.
Why the new i5 EV has plenty of range
Considering their power, acceleration, and features, both BMW i5 models have plenty of range.
Let’s start with the i5 eDrive40. In today’s electric vehicle market, around 300 miles range is a good baseline. Strong designs like the Volkswagen ID.4 Pro 4S (275 miles), Ford F-150 Lightning Extended Range (320 miles), and Chevrolet Bolt (259 miles) are some examples. Considering that, the i5 eDrive40 aligns with current EV range expectations.
However, the same can be said for the i5 M60. Because of its high-hp dual-motor configuration, the M60 needs a lot of juice. That means a shorter range, but in return, drivers get world-class performance to compete with anything on the road. Some might find the M60’s range disappointing, but it stacks up well against other performance-focused EVs. Comparable models include the Porsche Taycan (246 miles), Kia EV6 GT (206 miles), and Audi E-Tron GT (238 miles).
Additionally, since both i5 models are fast-charge capable, it takes only 30 minutes to get back on the road. On long trips, that can be an excellent opportunity to rest between stints.
The all-electric BMW i5 takes the 5 Series into new territory. With emissions-free driving and fast-charge capability, it’s responsible and convenient. And since it features the German brand’s elegant design and supple luxury, it’s a sight to see on the street. Whether drivers want increased range or exciting dynamics, the eDrive40 and M60 have what they need. The i5 is a sports sedan for the 21st century.
