i3

Just over a year ago we reported that BMW is considering additional models under the i sub-brand. At the time we made a reference to an i4 and i5 models that will join the upcoming, greenlighted i3 andi8 vehicles.

According to French magazine L’Automobile, BMW is readying to unveil the i4 at the LA Auto Show in November. We mentioned in the past that the i4 would be based on the i3, essentially a sportier version with 2-seats, think a mini-sporty car with a plug-in electric or range-extended electric drivetrain.

Compared to the i3, the i4 model will feature two doors and it is speculated to cost around $50,000 when and if it goes in production.

Just as like the other i cars, the BMW i4 will also use cutting-edge CFRP technology in their construction. Sporting a similar size, the i4 could make use of the same hybrid drivetrain as the i3: a plug-in system with a compact electric motor mounted over the rear axle. It draws energy from the battery to provide drive to the rear wheels via a single-speed transmission. As a sportier version of the i3, the i4 would produce more than the entry-level i city car: 168 horsepower and 184lb ft of torque.

If the car indeed lands in LA next month, we expect to see a web unveil within the next weeks.