Spotted: BMW i4 Convertible Confirms That Electric Convertibles Are Becoming Mainstream

      Stefan Baldauf / SB-Medien

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      We have confirmed through spy shots that a BMW i4 Cabriolet is indeed in development. It appears that it will feature the Neue Klasse design and utilize a conventional cloth roof rather than a folding hardtop. Sources indicate this vehicle is expected to debut for the 2028 model year.

      Currently, there are very few convertible electric vehicles, with the Maserati Gran Cabrio Folgore being the only significant option available. The ambitious Polestar had envisioned an exciting electric convertible named the Polestar 6, which I remember seeing as a concept at The Quail a few years ago and finding it fantastic, but I was not surprised by its delays. Given that Polestar is no longer operating in America, it seems unlikely that this model will reach production.

      In contrast, BMW has a solid grasp of the automotive market and a long-standing tradition of producing convertibles. It will be intriguing to see what trade-offs in weight and range the i4 Cabriolet may need to make for it to be practical. The inherent skateboard-like structure of electric platforms might even make it better than some existing convertible options.

      The current i4 lineup features four main variants, all with a “gran coupe” (sleek four-door) design: i4 eDrive40 (the 335 horsepower base version), i4 xDrive40 (offering all-wheel drive and increased power), and i4 M60 (the performance-oriented model until a true i4 M is introduced).

      The range for these vehicles varies between approximately 230 and 330 miles depending on the specifications.

      I believe it’s quite likely that BMW will also unveil an i4 hardtop coupe around the same time, although the US launch for both models may be later than in Europe. A contact at BMW informed me that US dealers are finding it challenging to secure allocations for the iX3 due to strong demand in its home market.

      While convertibles may not be the most practical option, they are certainly enjoyable to drive. If you disagree, it's likely that you haven't experienced one under the right weather conditions. Regardless, I'm excited to see that manufacturers are still embracing a sense of fun in their designs.

      Spotted a prototype? Reach out to us at tips@thedrive.com.