SMC Asia Cars Distributors Corp, the official distributor of BMW in the country, recently introduced the most powerful variant of the i4 sedan. The arrival of the BMW i4 M50 to our shores is definitely significant to fans of the brand. As BMW's first electric vehicle in its high-performance M series, the new i4 M50 combines the driving thrill that M-cars are known for, with the benefits of electric mobility. This model brings together luxury, performance, and sustainability in a package that brings the BMW brand forward into the future.

At the core of the i4 M50 is BMW's advanced fifth-generation eDrive technology. This setup provides an impressive output of 544 Ps and 795 Nm of torque, ensuring that the i4 M50 delivers a driving experience that's in line with the marque’s performance ethos. As this is an M-car, we all know we’re here for the performance specs. The car being electric is, well, a bonus. The i4 M50 has two motors, giving it all-wheel drive abilities similar (if not better) than its ICE-powered M xDrive brethren. The electric motors’ performance is complemented by an automatic transmission with a single-speed fixed ratio, providing smooth acceleration and a responsive driving feel. The i4 M50 comes with an 83.9 kWh battery with a published range of 415 to 520 kilometers on a single charge, making it suitable for a wide variety of driving needs, from daily commutes to longer road trips.

There’s an extensive list of safety features in the i4 M50 that reflect BMW's push for better driver and pedestrian safety. The technologies include acoustic pedestrian protection, a suite of airbags, and advanced driving aids on top of the usual alphabet soup of safety acronyms. Stability and traction controls, such as Corner Braking Control further enhance the vehicle's safety, making it a secure choice for drivers, passengers, and pedestrians alike.

The i4 M50's exterior design is a more sporty take on its brother, the eDrive35’s looks, and combines functionality with aesthetics. Be warned though, that the huge kidney grills are still around, but this time they aren’t really grills. The rear of the car reflects this with a rear valance that’s more aggressive and features fins where exhaust pipes would usually be. The M50 also features 19" M light alloy wheels that are more in-line with the car’s performance nature, a stark departure from the futuristic design of the eDrive35’s 5 spoke fan blade wheels. The M high gloss shadow line and an M rear spoiler also adds to the vehicle's sporty appearance and sets it apart from other electric vehicles.

Inside, the i4 M50 offers a luxurious and technologically advanced cabin. The interior boasts Leather Vernasca Black upholstery with blue contrast stitching and M Sport seats, providing both comfort and support. The vehicle is also equipped with cutting-edge technology, including the BMW Live Cockpit Plus, ConnectedDrive Services, driving assistant, smartphone integration, and a Harman Kardon surround sound system, ensuring a connected and enjoyable driving experience. A host of parking and driving aids, including Park Distance Control and a rearview camera help make the daily drive a lot smoother.

Additional features such as electric seat adjustment with memory function for the driver's seat, automatic air conditioning, and ambient lighting allow drivers and passengers to customize their environment for maximum comfort.

This launch highlights BMW's promise to push innovation and sustainability, in order to provide Philippine customers with an exciting new option in electric mobility. The i4 M50 offers an unparalleled blend of performance, safety, luxury, and environmental consciousness, setting a new benchmark in the electric vehicle market. And the price of entry? Cough up the ₱5,990,000 and you will get electric performance the way BMW envisions it.