BMW i5 Gets An Efficiency Boost: More Range, More Luxury

BMW has announced comprehensive upgrades to its i5 electric sedan line, introducing advanced semiconductor technology and aerodynamic improvements that promise to extend the electric vehicle’s (EV) range by up to 29 miles (47 km) under WLTP testing standards.

Silicon Carbide Boosts Power Electronics

With these improvements set to roll out in March, the heart of these improvements is BMW’s first-ever implementation of silicon carbide semiconductor components in the i5’s power electronics. These advanced semiconductors, which combine silicon and carbon, offer superior thermal performance and higher voltage operation capabilities compared to traditional silicon-based components.

The efficiency gains are particularly notable across the i5 lineup. The single-motor i5 eDrive40 now achieves an electricity consumption rate of 18 to 17.9 kWh/100 km (equivalent to 3.45 to 3.47 miles/kWh), representing an 8% improvement. The dual-motor xDrive40 variant shows even better progress, with consumption rates of 19.5-19.4 kWh/100 km (3.19 to 3.20 miles/kWh), marking a 9% improvement over its predecessor.

These improvements extend beyond the power electronics. BMW has introduced new low-rolling-resistance tires paired with aerodynamically optimized wheels, including new 19-inch aerodynamic bi-color options for both the eDrive40 and xDrive40 models. Even the wheel bearings have been refined to reduce power loss, demonstrating BMW’s attention to detail in pursuing efficiency gains.

Interior Upgrades for Enhanced Luxury

The enhanced i5 also receives interior upgrades, elevating its luxury credentials. Standard features now include ambient lighting with BMW’s crystalline-designed Interaction Bar, lumbar support for front seats, a Harman Kardon sound system, and high-gloss black door switchgear. A new Merino leather option in Black/Dark Violet adds to the customization possibilities. For the range-topping i5 M60 xDrive, it will now include the M Sport package Pro as standard equipment, though BMW has yet to announce whether these additions will affect pricing.

Range Gains Across BMW’s EV Lineup

While BMW has released the improved WLTP range figures, EPA ratings for U.S.-market vehicles are still pending. Given that EPA testing typically yields more conservative results than WLTP standards, American consumers will need to wait for official figures to understand how these improvements translate to real-world driving conditions in their market.

Read More: 2026 BMW iX Debuts With More Range, More Power, And New Tech Starting At $75,150

These enhancements to the i5 line mirror similar improvements being implemented across BMW’s EV range, including the recently updated iX crossover, which saw its EPA range increase to 340 miles from 307 miles, designating a 10% efficiency improvement. This systematic approach to improving efficiency and range across its EV lineup shows BMW’s aim to advance its electric mobility technology and maintain its competitive position in the luxury EV market.

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