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BMW has announced the market launch of the new BMW 5 Series Sedan and the new BMW i5 Sedan, designed and produced exclusively for the Chinese market. This launch, closely following their debut at Auto Guangzhou 2023, marks a notable expansion in BMW’s offerings in China, a key market for the brand.
The new BMW 5 Series Sedan, renowned as the world’s most successful business sedan, will now be available in China with both highly efficient combustion engines and all-electric drive. These models are distinctively tailored to meet the specific needs of Chinese consumers, featuring an extended wheelbase, unique proportions, and market-specific features.
BMW’s commitment to the Chinese market is further underscored by the production of these new models at the Dadong plant in Shenyang, operated by BMW Brilliance Automotive Ltd. This localized production approach has proven successful, as evidenced by the sale of around two million units of the BMW 5 Series Sedan in China since 2003.
The new models, based on the eighth generation of the series, are poised to continue the success story of the BMW 5 Series Sedan, which has become the best-selling premium model in its segment in the Chinese car market.
The drive portfolio of the new BMW 5 Series Sedan showcases BMW’s commitment to electrification. It includes four-cylinder petrol engines with 48-volt mild hybrid technology, offering outputs ranging from 140 kW/190 hp to 190 kW/208 hp. The all-electric BMW i5 eDrive35L Sedan, with a power consumption of 14.8 kWh/100 km, delivers a maximum output of 210 kW/286 hp.
In addition, the BMW i5 M60 xDrive Sedan, designed for the global market, is available in China. This model features dual electric motors and a combined output of 442 kW/601 hp, enhanced by unique suspension technology and M specific design features.
The new models offer two equipment packages tailored for the Chinese automotive market – the M Sport Package, highlighting the sedan’s dynamic character, and the Luxury Line, emphasizing elegance with premium design elements.
The exterior of the new BMW 5 Series Sedan and BMW i5 for China is characterized by distinctive proportions and exclusive design features, including market-specific paint finishes and gold-colored design accents. An innovative touch is the illuminated Chinese character for ‘five’, adding a unique cultural element.
The interior of the vehicles offers progressive luxury with features like the BMW Curved Display, BMW Theatre Screen, and the enhanced BMW iDrive system. These are complemented by model-specific seats and advanced infotainment and online communication services.
For added convenience and safety, the new models are equipped with semi-automatic driving and parking systems adapted to Chinese traffic conditions. The Active Lane Change Assistant with eye activation is a highlight of these technological advancements.
In terms of production, the Dadong plant utilizes artificial intelligence to optimize quality control, in line with BMW’s iFACTORY principles of being lean, clean, and digital. The commitment to sustainability is further emphasized by the use of 100% renewable electricity and increased use of secondary raw materials.
In conclusion, the launch of the new BMW 5 Series Sedan and BMW i5 in China represents a significant step in BMW’s strategy, combining technological innovation, sustainability, and a deep understanding of the Chinese market to offer a unique and luxurious driving experience.
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