The electric vehicle market is about to grow dramatically in 2022. Many of the world’s largest auto manufacturers are developing and designing more environmentally friendly vehicles as part of their automotive production schedule.
With the U.S. initiative to have more EV-friendly choices on the roadways, automakers are getting more creative with their EV options for consumers. German auto manufacturer BMW is no exception to its initiative to provide BMW performance and luxury to the EV market with its 2022 EV models.
BMW is planning to release two EV types and three models in 2022, which will be an all-electric sport utility vehicle and sedan. Let’s navigate what consumers can anticipate from these BMW EV options, features, and pricing for the 2022 model list.
The BMV EV sedan: BMW i4 features
The BMW i4 is expected to be released early to mid-2022. The all-electric sedan will be offered in more than one trim option, with a range on at least one model expected to operate up to 300 miles of battery drive range.
BMW also confirmed there will be an i4 M model available for purchase for avid M model lineup enthusiasts. Consumers who want the more affordable BMW EV option can compromise the higher-performance electric motor for the standard model, yet the i4 should deliver swift acceleration. According to Car and Driver, the i4 will be offered in single and dual-motor configurations with two trim choices.
- BMW i4 eDrive40 – The rear-wheel-drive i4 eDrive40 is projected to generate 335 HP. Additionally, BMW estimates this model will have a 300-mile battery range. This prototype is anticipated to start at a retail price of a little over $55,000.
- BMW i4 M50 – Featuring a dual motor, the BMW i4 M50 is expected to have up to 536 HP. The battery drive range for this model line is anticipated to be less than 300 miles per charge. This trim is also expected to feature the adaptive M suspension as a standard. This design is said to begin at around $66,000.
The BMW EV SUV: BMW iX features
In addition to the BMW EV sedan models, BMW is releasing a crossover all-electric SUV option: the BMW iX. This BMW electric SUV, referred to by BMW as a sports activity vehicle, or SAV, will come in only one model variety with luxury amenities.
Essentially designed similar to one of the most popular BMW SUV models, the X5, the 2022 BMW iX is a new electric crossover that will be roughly the same size. This SUV will come standard as an electric all-wheel-drive BMW electric SUV.
The battery range for driving is expected to be up to 300 miles on a charge. Consumers can expect this crossover electric SUV to have two electric motors — one at each axle. Also, these two motors combined are projected to produce up to 516 HP and 564 lb-ft of torque. BMW auto engineers also state that the immense output will accelerate the iX from 0-62 mph in only 4.6 seconds. The estimated price for this crossover EV SUV is set to start at around $83,000.
How do they compare to one another?
These three all-new BMW EV options are going to combine electricity with power. Most of the BMW EV models set for release in 2022 will hold true to the horsepower capabilities that BMW is known for. While these models will allow for more horsepower, there will be some compromising on the battery driving range compared to other EVs on the market.
While comparing all three models, consumers looking to purchase the BMW EV options will have to decide on a few factors: battery range, horsepower, and price. For those looking for a more economical, affordable, and extended range of driving on a charge, the BMW i4 eDrive40 sedan is going to be the best choice for those capabilities.
EV consumers who are looking for more horsepower compatibility, yet are willing to compromise some on battery range with an M drivetrain, the BMW i4 M50 will provide power with zero emissions.
Lastly, for those who want horsepower plus EV and are willing to pay the higher sticker price, the BMW iX SAV will be the best choice out of the three EV options.
Final thoughts on the new BMW EV options
BMW has attempted an electric vehicle in the past with its i3 model, yet had minimal interest from many American consumers. So engineers and designers went back to the drawing board to include more horsepower and torque that mimic the gasoline models of BMW.
These upcoming models may have rather average or midrange battery capacity, yet the horsepower and torque may rival many other EV manufacturers. BMW is aiming to integrate the performance capabilities it’s known for while enhancing luxury and all-electric abilities for its 2022 BMW EV production line.