The full form of the BMW i4 Concept is finally showcased by BMW.
The presence of the i4 Concept seems to provide a vision of BMW's design in the future, especially the design of the 4 Series.
The overall shape of the i4 is like a 4-Series with Gran Coupe body styling. This four-door sedan has a characteristic sloping coupe roof, creating a blend of elegant and sporty appearance. At first glance, the i4 Concept seems to be a preview of the successor to the M4 if it is embedded in an electric powertrain.
The most interesting element is the grille, which, like it or not, is now extra large and tall, as the Concept 4 showed last year. Beneath the grille is BMW's latest sophistication, called the “Intelligence Panel”, not as air intakes – EVs don't need that much. This large black panel is precisely the 'home' of many sensors.
Through this front fascia, BMW reinterprets the classic design of the four headlights. Bridging traditional characteristics to the future. Two LED lines on each side of the freestanding can light up for various functions. The logo also evolved in the design of this concept, which is the first time a new brand identity is introduced to the public. The design is more two-dimensional and transparent – replacing the black color in the old roundel.
The interior of the BMW i4 Concept looks minimalist and very open with a glass roof. The driver's main view will be on the hooded frameless curved display, extending to the top of the center stack. Also presents the sensation of "driver oriented" in an elegant manner. This is where all control centers are located. Even the AC control is integrated in it. This is their approach to reduce the busyness of the buttons in the cabin. Maybe the production version i4 won't be this simple.
Focus on the Fundamental Essence
What this design language means is a focus on the basics, where it doesn't take a lot of keystrokes to create sophisticated images. Scenarios are no longer what they used to be, when lots of levers, knobs and buttons meant carrying the latest technology. Now the image of technology goes hand in hand with the nuances of simple luxury.
The manufacturer from Munich is thick with driving dynamism. Entering the age of electrification certainly does not mean overthrowing that view. The electrical potential of the i4 is claimed to be equivalent to the heart of the fossil age V8. Electric motor extraction can reach 530 hp. The energy source comes from a battery with a power of 80 kWh, capable of carrying the i4 up to 600 km (WLTP calculation).
The assembly of the i4 itself will begin in 2021 in BMW's homeland, Munich. Various line ups, be it electric cars, PHEVs, and even conventional ones, will share an assembly line there, one of which is Series 3.
