BMW prepares India-specific i5 LWB with higher ground clearance for 2026 launch
BMW is set to expand its electric portfolio in India with the arrival of the long-wheelbase i5 sedan, which is now slated for an early 2026 launch. The model will be assembled at the company’s Chennai plant, joining the iX1, and will become BMW’s first locally produced all-electric sedan for the Indian market. Positioned above the 530Li and below the performance-focused i5 M60, the i5 LWB aims to strengthen the brand’s EV presence while effectively replacing the discontinued diesel 5 Series.
Ahead of its debut, BMW has tailored the India-spec version to address the country’s demanding road conditions. One of the key engineering updates is an increase in ground clearance, prompted by feedback from initial testing that highlighted challenges with the standard model’s soft suspension and low ride height. These adjustments to the chassis, carried out specifically for India, contributed to the delay in the car’s market introduction.
The i5 LWB expected for India is likely the eDrive40L variant, featuring a rear-wheel-drive setup and a single electric motor delivering 340hp and 430Nm. It will draw power from a 97kWh battery pack. While the same configuration in China offers a CLTC-rated range of up to 713km, real-world range figures in India are expected to be more modest. BMW is positioning this version to offer a balanced blend of efficiency and performance rather than prioritising outright acceleration.
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