2026 BMW i4 Will Gain Longer Range from a More Efficient Inverter
BMW is updating the 2026 i4 lineup with myriad changes that affect range and output.
New semiconductor components for the inverter improve efficiency and increase the i4's range estimate by about 5 percent.
Starting in 2026, the range-topping i4 M50 will turn into the i4 M60 and get an additional 56 hp, bringing it up to 592 horsepower.
Before the i3 shows up with its updated Neue Klasse design, BMW is updating the i4 electric sedan with improved range and output figures.
The updated i4's inverter will utilize new silicon-carbide semiconductor components, which BMW claims will reduce energy consumption by roughly 5 percent. The saved energy comes out to about 14 miles of additional range from a full charge, though your literal mileage may vary based on trim and equipment.
BMW
As things currently stand, the rear-drive eDrive40 gets an estimated 301 miles of range from a full charge. The AWD xDrive40 gets an estimated 307 miles when equipped with 18-inch wheels, or 307 when wearing 19-inch shoes. The current range-topping M50 earns just 245 miles, according to EPA estimates.
Along with improved efficiency, BMW is also boosting the i4's performance—at least at the top end of the range. The M50 model that served as the flagship trim for the previous four model years is gone. It's being replaced by a new M60 trim, which can unlock a maximum of 592 horsepower in Sport mode, bringing the total output up by 56 hp compared with the old M50.
BMW
A spokesperson for BMW confirmed to Car and Driver that while the brand is instituting the updates this summer in Europe, U.S. production won't start until the fourth quarter. As a result, the updates won't show up until the 2026 model year. Pricing and official range figures will come out closer to the on-sale date.
Jack Fitzgerald
Associate News Editor
Jack Fitzgerald's love for cars stems from his as yet unshakable addiction to Formula 1.
After a brief stint as a detailer for a local dealership group in college, he knew he needed a more permanent way to drive all the new cars he couldn't afford and decided to pursue a career in auto writing. By hounding his college professors at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, he was able to travel Wisconsin seeking out stories in the auto world before landing his dream job at Car and Driver. His new goal is to delay the inevitable demise of his 2010 Volkswagen Golf. Read full bio
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