BMW India kicks off bookings for locally made i5 LWB; electric sedan gets claimed 669-km range
/ 2 min read
The i5 Long Wheelbase is BMW India’s first locally produced electric sedan and the second EV to be manufactured at the company’s Chennai plant.
Hardeep Singh Brar President & CEO, BMW Group India with the first-ever BMW i5 LWB. | Credits: BMW India
BMW India has opened bookings for the i5 Long Wheelbase (LWB), expanding its locally manufactured electric vehicle portfolio in India. The electric sedan will be produced at BMW Group Plant Chennai, making it the company’s first locally produced electric sedan and the second electric BMW model after ix1 to roll out from the facility.
Bookings for the i5 LWB are open through BMW India’s authorised dealer network, while customers can also register their interest on the company’s website. The move comes as luxury carmakers increase their focus on electric vehicles and local manufacturing in the Indian market.
BMW i5 LWB claims up to 669-km range
The BMW i5 LWB measures 5,175 mm in length, 2,156 mm in width and 1,520 mm in height, with a 3,105-mm wheelbase. BMW said the extended wheelbase provides additional cabin space, particularly for rear-seat passengers.
The electric sedan is powered by a motor producing 268 hp and can accelerate from 0-100 kmph in 6.7 seconds. It is equipped with an 81.6-kWh high-voltage battery, with BMW claiming a range of up to 669 km on the MIDC cycle on a single charge.
The i5 LWB also gets adaptive rear-axle air suspension and enhanced ground clearance for the Indian market. BMW said the setup is intended to improve ride comfort and vehicle stability across varying road conditions.
BMW expands local electric vehicle production
The i5 LWB will be the second electric BMW model to be manufactured at the Chennai plant, strengthening the facility’s role in the company’s electrification strategy in India.
BMW India has also announced a First Edition limited to 99 customers. The limited-run version comes with additional rear-seat equipment and exclusive interior and exterior finishes.
The local production of the i5 LWB gives BMW another electric model manufactured in India as the luxury carmaker expands its EV portfolio. It also adds an electric sedan to the company’s locally produced range at a time when premium automakers are increasing their focus on electrification in the country.
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