The BMW i5, the electric version of the next-generation 5 Series, is set to be revealed on May 24.
It could be revealed alongside the combustion-powered 5 Series range, as BMW did with the X1 and iX1 and 7 Series and i7.
BMW USA uploaded a short teaser video to its YouTube channel showcasing brief glimpses at the i5’s exterior and interior.
The BMW i5 will have an illuminated grille similar in style to the 7 Series/i7, X5, X6, X7, and XM. It will also have flashy interior ambient lighting that’s shown in red and blue in the teaser video.
Keen listeners will hear the Hans Zimmer drive soundtrack that’s already present in a number of BMW’s current electric vehicles (EVs) and is likely to feature on the BMW i5.
As previously reported, CarExpert understands the i5 is on track to hit local showrooms before the end of 2023, with its petrol-powered 5 Series sibling following close behind it.
It’s unclear if the BMW i5 and 5 Series will be sedan-only in Australia. Touring wagon versions of both will be offered in markets like Europe.
BMW hasn’t locked in official launch timing just yet, but has confirmed the i5 will launch in some markets in October.
The BMW i5 will take on the likes of the Mercedes-Benz EQE, Genesis Electrified G80, Tesla Model S, as well as the forthcoming Audi A6 e-tron.
The i5 sedan and wagon will sit alongside the combustion-powered 5 Series in BMW showrooms, with a similar design – just like the i4 sits alongside the 4 Series, but features unique wheels, detailing, and grilles.
Under the skin, the i5 rides on a version of the CLAR platform that will also under the petrol 5er, and forms the base for the i4 and iX EVs.
BMW has confirmed it will offer a longer-range, less-powerful i5 eDrive40 with rear-wheel drive, and an all-wheel drive M60 xDrive flagship.
How much power they’ll offer isn’t yet clear; the iX xDrive40 makes 240kW and 630Nm, while the M60 pumps out 455kW and 1100Nm.
Rear-wheel steering, active anti-roll technology, and a fully active suspension setup will be offered. BMW promises it will blend “ride comfort approaching BMW 7 Series levels with the sporting agility familiar from the BMW 3 Series”.
It’ll also feature a new active driver assist suite. In some markets, the highway driving assistant is capable of acceleration, braking, and steering at up to 130km/h.
An interior camera means when the driver looks at the relevant exterior mirror, the car will make a lane change in that direction if it’s safe.
MORE: Everything BMW 5 Series
