Quick HighlightsBMW i5 LWB India launch expected in early 2026.Locally assembled EV to get improved ground clearance.Likely to debut as eDrive40L with a 97kWh battery.Expected pricing between ₹90 lakh and ₹1 crore ex-showroom.BMW i5 LWB India Launch Expected in Early 2026: What to Expect from BMW’s First Made-in-India Electric SedanBMW is preparing for a major addition to its Indian electric vehicle lineup with the launch of the long-wheelbase i5 sedan, expected to arrive in early 2026. The new i5 LWB will be locally assembled at the company’s Chennai facility, making it BMW’s first all-electric sedan produced in India. This marks a significant step in BMW’s broader electrification strategy and positions the i5 as a strong contender in the premium electric sedan segment.The India-spec model is based on the China-market i5 LWB, which has been designed to offer limousine-like comfort, generous rear-seat space and a refined driving experience. It will be positioned above the current 530Li but below the performance-focused i5 M60, effectively strengthening BMW’s 5 Series lineup while filling the gap left by the discontinued diesel variants.India-Specific Engineering: Higher Ground Clearance for Local RoadsOne of the most important updates for the Indian market is the reworked chassis and increased ground clearance. Early evaluations had revealed that the global i5’s soft suspension and low ride height made it susceptible to scraping on Indian speed breakers. BMW took that feedback seriously and re-engineered the LWB version to better handle local road conditions.This adjustment, though time-consuming, was essential for Indian buyers who expect premium sedans to deliver both comfort and practicality. The additional engineering work is also a key reason the India launch timeline has shifted to early 2026 instead of its earlier target.Likely Variant: BMW i5 eDrive40L with Up to 713km CLTC RangeThe India-spec BMW i5 LWB is expected to debut in the eDrive40L configuration. This variant uses a rear-mounted electric motor producing 340hp and 430Nm of torque, paired with a 97kWh battery pack.In China, the sedan delivers an impressive CLTC-certified range of up to 713km. While this number will naturally be lower under Indian testing conditions, it still positions the i5 as one of the longest-range EV sedans likely to be offered in the premium luxury segment.By focusing on performance-efficiency balance rather than outright acceleration, BMW aims to appeal to buyers transitioning from petrol and diesel luxury sedans to electric mobility without compromising comfort or range confidence.Filling the Diesel Gap and Competing with Mercedes-Benz E-ClassWith diesel engines phased out from the current 5 Series lineup, BMW has faced challenges competing head-on with the Mercedes-Benz E-Class, which continues to dominate the segment thanks to its diesel-powered variants. The arrival of the i5 LWB is BMW’s strategic response to this gap.While the i5 does not directly replace the diesel powertrain, it offers a compelling alternative for customers who value refinement, advanced technology and a quieter, more sophisticated driving experience. BMW is positioning the i5 as the ideal option for buyers ready to shift to electric while still wanting roomy rear seats and a limousine-like ride.Pricing and Local Assembly AdvantagesOne of the major advantages for BMW is the EV-friendly tax structure. With electric vehicles attracting only 5 percent GST, the i5 LWB can be priced competitively against the combustion-engine Mercedes-Benz E-Class even with its large battery pack.Local assembly will further help control costs. BMW is expected to price the i5 LWB between ₹90 lakh and ₹1 crore (ex-showroom), placing it in a sweet spot for luxury EV buyers seeking performance, comfort and long-distance capability.Positioning as a “Baby i7” for IndiaBMW’s flagship electric sedan, the i7, has become a surprise success in India, accounting for nearly half of all 7 Series sales. Riding on this momentum, BMW plans to market the i5 LWB as a compact yet luxurious “baby i7”, offering features and comfort inspired by the larger model but at a significantly lower price.The long-wheelbase format, elegant cabin layout, advanced technology package and electric powertrain will collectively help the i5 appeal to chauffeur-driven customers just as much as owner-drivers.What Will Determine Its Success?The success of the BMW i5 LWB in India will depend largely on how quickly the charging infrastructure expands. While high-range EVs are becoming more common, reliable fast-charging access remains a key concern for potential buyers in the premium segment.BMW’s strategy is clear: to use electrification as a powerful differentiator, replace the missing diesel volume and establish a solid foothold in a rapidly evolving market.With its improved ground clearance, local assembly, long-range capability and luxury positioning, the i5 LWB has the potential to reshape BMW’s standing in the segment when it arrives in 2026.