The BMW i3 has been on our roads since 2013, but despite its popularity, an all-electric powertrain is still yet to make it to any other model from the brand. This is set to change in 2021, with the i4 four-door coupe entering production to rival the likes of the Tesla Model 3 and Porsche Taycan 4S.

Though our first look at its design will come in early March at the Geneva motor show, BMW has already confirmed the important details for its first all-electric saloon. Peak power is quoted at 522bhp, an identical figure to that of the £83,000 Porsche Taycan 4S, and enough for a 0-62mph time of around 4sec and a top speed of ‘over 124mph’. 

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> Porsche Taycan 4S revealed with up to 563bhp

Almost as vital as acceleration times in EVs is range. The WLTP number for the i4 is 373 miles, exceeding the Taycan 4S’s figure by a considerable 121 miles, and sitting just 6 miles below the Model S Long Range. Like Audi’s e-tron, the i4 will accept 150kW charging, allowing owners to add 63 miles of range in just 6 minutes, and go from empty to an 80 per cent charge in 35 minutes. BMW has also confirmed that its latest eDrive platform could provide up to 434 miles in certain applications. 

Despite the industry’s recent influx of electrified models, BMW has been creating electric powertrains for quite some time, beginning development for its i3 in 2008. Now on its fifth-generation eDrive powertrain, the marque is set to apply its latest tech to the iX3 SUV this year, and in 2021 the i4 saloon and iNEXT SUV. 

Developed entirely in-house, the new tech integrates the electric motor, transmission and electronics into a single housing, reducing weight, cost and increasing power density. BMW has also created a new battery with a higher power density than before, helping to increase cabin space and range, whilst lowering the car’s centre of gravity – the i4 will come with an 80kWh unit, weighing in at 550kg.

Built on the CLAR platform that underpins almost all of BMW’s current range, the i4 will be assembled in the same Munich plant as many of its combustion-engined vehicles.

> BMW 4-series Coupe concept previews new 4-series and M3/M4 

Pricing is yet to be disclosed, but expect the i4 to sit at around £60,000 to match the range-topping Tesla Model 3. Thanks to its modular, fifth-generation platform, however, cheaper variants with less range and performance will likely be unveiled in time.