The First-Ever All-Electric 5 Series: A Performance Masterpiece from BMW’s M Division
Published Oct 01, 2023 • Last updated 8 hours ago • 7 minute read
Introduced in 1972, the BMW 5 Series has always been a flagship model in the company’s lineup. The 2024 i5 M60 xDrive, the first-ever all-electric 5 Series, is set to pave the way for the next fifty years. With over 10 million units sold to date, the 5 Series stands out by combining the sport handling of the smaller 3 Series and the luxury and comfort of the larger 7 Series in a luxury sport sedan package.
In 2024, BMW offers four different drive variants for the 5 Series: gasoline, hybrid, plug-in hybrid, and all-electric. The first-ever 5 Series EV is available in rear-wheel (i5 eDrive40) and all-wheel drive (i5 M60 xDrive) configurations. However, only the latter is available in Canada, with the expectation that the all-wheel drive base model will arrive next year. The rear-wheel drive i5 eDrive 40 is not available in Canada, but an all-wheel drive dual motor xDrive variant is expected to be launched next year.
The i5 M60 xDrive, carrying the iconic ‘M’ badge, lives up to BMW’s high-performance standards. Boasting 601 horsepower, it is the most powerful 5 Series vehicle to date for 2024.
Before we discuss driving impressions and what makes the i5 a special electric vehicle, let’s appreciate some historical symmetry. In 1972, the same year the 5 Series was introduced, BMW produced its first electric car. The 1602 Elektro-Antrieb boasted a front-mounted motor, rear-wheel drive, and a 43 horsepower motor that was fed by a 12.6 kWh battery pack. Fast forward 41 years later, and BMW released the i3, marking the beginning of its transition to an all-electric future.
Joining BMW Canada’s all-electric fleet alongside the i4, i7, and iX, the i5 shares the same EV platform philosophy as the i7. Unlike other automakers, BMW adapts the gasoline chassis platform to accommodate the battery pack and electric motors, which means customers can choose from different powertrain options and get the same sedan. However, this approach means there is a tunnel hump in the rear seat floor and no frunk.
For the 2024 5 Series, BMW has made several updates. The new model is longer, wider, taller, and has an increased wheelbase compared to the previous model, resulting in a more athletic, modern, and sophisticated exterior. Inside, the new cockpit features fewer buttons and controls, with two digital screens taking on the bulk of the control functions. The steering wheel has been redesigned, and an all-vegan interior is now standard. The sport seats have also undergone a redesign.
As an all-electric M model, the i5 M60 xDrive is an all-wheel drive sedan with dual motors. With a combined output of 601 horsepower and M Sport Boost or M Launch Control function activated, it can sprint from 0 to 100 km/h in just 3.8 seconds. The battery has a usable energy content of 81.2 kWh, and full-charge range is estimated to be 412 kilometers according to EPA ratings. Additionally, a range conservation mode called Max Range increases the range by up to 25% by limiting speed and deactivating climate functions.
The 2024 5 Series also offers an expanded range of systems for partially automated driving and parking, including the world’s first Active Lane Change Assistant with eye confirmation. Currently, this option is available in jurisdictions like North America and Germany that allow Level 2 Autonomous driving.
Overall, the 2024 BMW i5 M60 xDrive combines BMW’s performance heritage with their commitment to the electric future, making it a standout luxury sport sedan in the all-electric segment.
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