BMW has announced a series of new models it plans to roll out over the course over summer 2023.
Here, it confirmed that the all-electric i4 lineup will expand to include the 396-hp, AWD i4 xDrive40. Positioned below the 536-hp i4 M50 variant, the model’s dual electric motors produce a total of 396 hp and 443 lb-ft of torque – helping the model achieve 0 – 60 mph (0 – 100 km/h) in 4.9 seconds.
The i4 xDrive 40’s lithium-ion battery offers a net usable energy content of 80.7 kWh, and can be recharged at up to 205 kW on a DC fast charger. Its range is estimated to be 307 miles, when fitted with the standard 18-inch aerodynamically-optimized wheels, or 282 miles when equipped with the optional 19-inch wheels. The 2024 model will start at a base MSRP of $61,600 plus $995 destination and handling, with U.S. deliveries expected to commence in the third quarter of 2023.
Following the launch of the i7 M70 xDrive, BMW will introduce two new electrified 7 Series models for model year 2024. The first will be the 2024 750e xDrive, which pairs a 308-hp TwinPower Turbo 3.0-liter 6-cylinder engine with a 194-hp electric motor mounted in the transmission. Together, the setup enables a maximum system output of 483 hp and 516 lb-ft of torque, which itself supports an purely-electric driving range exceeding 35 miles. The 2024 BMW 750e xDrive will carry a base price of $107,000 plus $995 destination and handling when it enters the US market in the fall of 2023.
Also rolling out in the third quarter of 2023 will be the single-motor, rear-wheel drive i7 eDrive50. Its single motor drives the rear axle with 449 horsepower. The 2024 i7 eDrive50 will start at $105,700 plus $995 destination and handling when it goes on sale in fall 2023. BMW confirmed that its range and performance figures will be released closer to market launch.
The summer of 2023 will see BMW introduce the next generation of its iDrive operating system in select models. Within the system, called BMW Operating System 8.5, a home screen with organized functions will offered on the BMW Curved Display. Its new zero-layer principle means that all relevant functions and information will be displayed on a single level, making it possible to select a desired function without first having to enter a submenu.
The QuickSelect functionality makes it possible to directly select entertainment programs, contact lists and vehicle settings. Users can start an interaction using the BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant, or activate other menu options by touch. Once the relevant settings have been chosen, tapping the home icon on the lower edge returns the user to the home screen. In addition to the Home symbol, there are now also the symbols for direct access to the climate control menu, the All Apps menu, Navigation, Media, and Communication as well as Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Beginning with vehicles produced from July 2023 onwards, BMW Operating System 8.5 will be introduced in new BMW iX, i4, and 7 Series models. In August, the new OS will be fitted to BMW X5 and X6 models, X7 models, and the BMW XM (M models will not feature QuickSelect).
