During the 2023 International Motor Show Germany and Smart Mobility Expo (IAA MOBILITY), Oliver Zipse, Chairman of the BMW Group, stated that to cater to the enormous demand for electric mobility in the Chinese market, the BMW Group is undergoing an electric transformation for its entire product range. This year, BMW will introduce 11 all-electric vehicles for Chinese customers, including the BMW iX1 recently launched at the Chengdu Motor Show. Additionally, the long-wheelbase version of the domestically produced BMW i5 will debut later this year.
The domestically produced BMW i5, like the gasoline version, features BMW's latest signature illuminated grille and boomerang-shaped daytime running lights. However, it doesn't adopt the large "nostrils" design of the BMW 7 series. The lower surround appears more rugged and powerful. From the side, the distinctive "Hofmeister kink" of the rear door merges seamlessly with the C-pillar, a design present in the current BMW 3 series and 7 series. Furthermore, a glowing "5" emblem has been added at the kink, which emits a blue breathing effect during charging, a special design element for domestic users.
Regarding the rear, the new model will adopt a distinctive tail light design, incorporating L-shaped chrome trim to emphasize luxury. In terms of dimensions, the car measures 5175mm in length, 1900mm in width, and 1520mm in height, with a wheelbase of 3105mm.
Official images indicate that the domestically produced BMW i5 will adopt the latest family-style design, including a continuous screen design with a 12.3-inch instrument panel + 14.9-inch central control screen and a new sporty steering wheel. The car will be equipped with the iDrive 8.5 system, enhancing its intelligence. Developed based on the Linux system, the new iDrive introduces a "QuickSelect" floating window design to improve menu structure, enabling drivers to access frequently-used features swiftly and conveniently. BMW has also optimized functionality access, with more intuitive app sequences and vehicle settings. Menu apps can be adjusted based on user habits and preferences.
Power-wise, the domestically produced BMW i5 will feature a drive motor produced by ZF Drive Technology (Shenyang) Co., Ltd., model HA0001N0, with a maximum power of 250 kW.
On September 6th, Oliver Zipse, Chairman of the BMW Group, stated at the 2023 World New Energy Vehicle Congress that tackling climate change requires multiple concurrent strategies. Hydrogen fuel cell vehicles can complement battery-driven EVs, continuously transitioning to sustainable personal mobility. Zipse also revealed that BMW's next-generation vehicles, potentially compatible with hydrogen fuel cell drive systems, will be introduced in 2025.
In 2023, the BMW Group has already launched a pilot fleet of nearly 100 BMW iX5 Hydrogen fuel cell vehicles, showcasing the feasibility of hydrogen fuel cell technology. The iX5 Hydrogen integrates hydrogen fuel cell tech with the fifth-generation BMW eDrive powertrain technology, offering a maximum output power of 295 kW. Filling up the hydrogen tank takes only 3-4 minutes, and under the WLTP cycle, it can achieve a maximum range of 504 kilometers. This pilot fleet will hold media demonstrations and public experiences in various global markets, including China, within the year.
