BMW i5 Long Wheelbase launched in India, priced from Rs 79.60 lakh

BMW India has launched the i5 Long Wheelbase electric sedan in the luxury electric car segment, with an ex-showroom price of Rs 79.60 lakh. The car will be produced locally at the BMW Group plant in Chennai, making it the first electric sedan from BMW to be locally manufactured in India. The company had also introduced a First Edition at the same price, limited to 99 units, all of which sold out before launch.

The BMW i5 eDrive35L M Sport measures 5,175 mm in length, 2,156 mm in width and 1,520 mm in height, with a wheelbase of 3,105 mm that gives rear-seat passengers more legroom. Keeping Indian roads in mind, the car gets rear-axle air suspension and increased ground clearance. On the outside, an illuminated kidney grille, adaptive LED headlamps and 20-inch M alloy wheels add to its appeal.

The car has an 81.6 kWh battery paired with a rear-mounted electric motor that generates 268 hp of power and 410 Nm of torque, allowing the i5 to go from 0 to 100 kmph in just 6.7 seconds, with a top speed of 195 kmph. According to the company, a full charge can deliver an MIDC-certified range of up to 669 km. With 160 kW DC fast charging, the battery can charge from 10 to 80 percent in just 33 minutes.

Inside the cabin, the car gets a 12.3-inch digital instrument screen and a 14.9-inch touchscreen as part of the BMW Curved Display. It also features four-zone climate control, ventilated front seats, a panoramic glass roof, a Bowers & Wilkins audio system and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Special attention has been paid to rear passenger comfort as well, with Veganza vegan upholstery, ventilated comfort seats and the Sky Lounge panoramic roof lending the cabin a premium feel. Features such as Digital Key Plus and a WiFi hotspot add convenience for everyday use.

On safety, the car comes with active cruise control, Parking Assistant Professional, Reverse Assistant, lane change warning and collision warning. Eight airbags are standard. Customers also get an 11 kW Wallbox charger, while the battery comes with an 8-year or 1,60,000 km warranty. In this segment, the i5 will compete directly with other premium electric sedans.