BMW M starts testing four-motor electric prototype

BMW’s portfolio consists of a number of M-badged electrical automobiles, just like the iX M60, however each full-blown M mannequin launched thus far has been piston-powered. That is set to alter within the coming years: BMW M has began testing a battery-powered, i4-based prototype with 4 motors.

The take a look at mule is an evolution of the i4 M50 sedan with punched-out wheel arch flares and front-end components borrowed from the M3/M4 duo. Whereas that is an attention-grabbing proposition by itself, it is what’s beneath the physique that counts: energy comes from 4 electrical motors (one per wheel) that ship through-the-road all-wheel-drive. BMW M hasn’t launched particulars like horsepower, weight, and driving vary, nonetheless.

BMW notes that assigning every wheel its personal motor unlocks a number of advantages together with exact, variable, and fast torque distribution. In concept, the prototype might be front-, rear-, left-, or right-wheel-drive. The motors are linked to a central management unit that screens various parameters, like street situations and the driving type, and distributes torque accordingly. It will possibly make modifications in mere milliseconds.

There is not any phrase but on what the longer term holds for this wide-bodied i4. BMW explains that it is testing the prototype in real-world situations to collect information in regards to the powertrain and high-quality tune it, nevertheless it hasn’t introduced plans to convey the mannequin to collection manufacturing. 

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