BMW i5 LWB Bookings Open Of Launch

German luxury carmaker BMW has opened bookings for the i5 LWB sedan in India, with the electric sedanl set for launch in the coming weeks. The BMW i5 LWB will be the brand's second locally assembled EV in the country, built at the Chennai plant after the iX1 LWB. BMW will also offer a First Edition of the i5 LWB, limited to the first 99 buyers.

BMW i5 LWB - Dimensions & Powertrain

The BMW i5 LWB measures 100mm longer than the standard-wheelbase i5, both in overall length and wheelbase. It stands as the longest sedan in its segment, with a length of 5.1 metres and a wheelbase of 3.10 metres. The added size makes it the largest sedan in its class sold in India.

Power for the c eDrive 35L comes from a single electric motor sending 268hp to the rear wheels. The BMW i5 LWB completes the 0 to 100Km/h sprint in 6.7 seconds. Rear-axle air suspension is standard on the BMW i5 LWB.

The i5 LWB's motor is paired with an 81.6kWh battery pack that delivers a claimed range of 669km on the MIDC cycle, marginally larger than the 81.2kWh unit fitted to the standard-wheelbase i5 M60, which is sold in India with all-wheel drive.

BMW i5 LWB - Standard Equipment & First Edition

Standard equipment on the BMW i5 LWB includes LED headlights, 20-inch alloy wheels, powered adjustment for the front seats, a Bowers & Wilkins surround sound system, dual-zone climate control for rear occupants and a 360-degree camera setup. The touchscreen and digital driver's display are expected to measure 12.3 inches and 14.9 inches respectively, similar to the standard-wheelbase i5.

The BMW i5 LWB First Edition adds a rear seat entertainment package with a tablet and tablet holder, along with BMW Individual silver bronze accents, open-pore wood trim and silver bronze inlay on the cabin. Exterior touches include 'FIRST EDITION' laser engraving on the dashboard and a Carbon Black metallic paint finish with titanium bronze accents.

BMW has not announced pricing for the i5 LWB, though local assembly at the Chennai plant is expected to bring tax benefits over a fully imported car. The BMW i5 LWB is expected to be priced below Rs 1 crore (ex-showroom).