Rumor: BMW plans an i5 model
The idea of a future BMW i5 comes to focus again. Back in August 2011, we first reported on a possible i5 model coming to market in the future to further extend the i brand. German magazine Autobild brings forward new information on the midsize four-door electric vehicle.
The rumormill churns out that the design strategy is still being discussed, but one would expect to see i-specific cues, such as sleek aerodynamics, rear hinged doors and appropriate space for four people. The i5 is said to take a high roof, sliding rear seat and a spacious trunk.
The BMW i5 would likely use a rear-wheel-drive platform with a 170 horsepower electric motor mated to the range extending gasoline engine producing another 90 horsepower. The i5 will also use cutting-edge CFRP technology in their construction.
Pricing is a purely speculative subject at the moment but Autobild hints at a base price of 50,000 euros.
First BMW electric vehicle from the i sub-brand, the i3, will officially launch in 2013. A year later, the i8 sports car comes to redefine the high-end market of luxury cars.
Author: Horatiu Boeriu
Source: http://www.bmwblog.com/2012/02/06/rumor ... -i5-model/