How to Charge Your BMW i4 at Electrify America: Expert Advice for Optimal Charging

The BMW i4 is a stunning electric sedan that offers a blend of luxury, performance, and sustainability. But one crucial aspect of owning an EV is understanding how to charge it. If you’re a BMW i4 owner looking to utilize Electrify America’s charging network, you’ve come to the right place. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the process of charging your BMW i4 at Electrify America stations, from finding a station to maximizing your charging efficiency.

Understanding Electrify America and its Network

Electrify America is a leading provider of fast-charging infrastructure for electric vehicles in the United States. They boast a vast network of charging stations strategically located across the country, making it convenient for EV drivers to find a charging station wherever they go. Electrify America offers a range of charging options, including DC fast charging (DCFC) and Level 2 charging, catering to various EV models and charging needs.

Locating Electrify America Stations for Your BMW i4

Finding an Electrify America charging station for your BMW i4 is a breeze. You can utilize the following methods:

• Electrify America App: The Electrify America app is your go-to tool for locating charging stations. Simply open the app, enter your desired location, and the app will display available stations in your vicinity. You can filter stations by connector type, availability, and other criteria.
• BMW i4 Navigation System: Your BMW i4’s integrated navigation system can also help you locate Electrify America stations. The system is pre-programmed with charging station locations, making it easy to find a station while on the road.
• Electrify America Website: You can also use the Electrify America website to find charging stations. The website provides a map view where you can search for stations by location, connector type, and other filters.

Choosing the Right Connector for Your BMW i4

The BMW i4 is compatible with the Combined Charging System (CCS) connector, which is the standard connector for DC fast charging in North America. Electrify America stations typically offer CCS connectors, so you’ll be able to charge your BMW i4 at any Electrify America station.

Connecting Your BMW i4 to the Charger

Once you’ve located an Electrify America station with a CCS connector, you can connect your BMW i4. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Park your BMW i4: Position your BMW i4 in front of the charging station, ensuring the charging port is facing the connector.
2. Open the charging port: Unlock the charging port by pressing the button located near the charging port on your BMW i4.
3. Plug in the CCS connector: Carefully insert the CCS connector into the charging port on your BMW i4. The connector will lock into place, ensuring a secure connection.

Starting the Charging Process

After connecting your BMW i4 to the charger, you’ll need to initiate the charging process. This is usually done through the Electrify America app or the charger’s screen.

• Electrify America App: Open the Electrify America app and select the charging station you’re connected to. You’ll be presented with a screen where you can start the charging process.
• Charger Screen: Some Electrify America chargers have a touchscreen display. Simply tap on the “Start” button to initiate charging.

Monitoring Your Charging Progress

Once charging begins, you can monitor its progress through several methods:

• BMW i4 Display: Your BMW i4’s instrument cluster will display the current charging status, including the charging rate and estimated time to full charge.
• Electrify America App: The Electrify America app provides a real-time charging progress update, showing the current charging rate, remaining charge time, and total energy delivered.
• Charger Screen: If the charger has a screen, it will display the charging progress and other relevant information.

Maximizing Your Charging Efficiency

To make the most of your charging time at Electrify America, consider these tips:

• Precondition your battery: Before arriving at the charging station, use your BMW i4’s climate control system to preheat or cool the cabin to your desired temperature. This helps to optimize battery temperature for faster charging.
• Choose the right charging level: Electrify America stations offer various charging levels, ranging from 150 kW to 350 kW. Select the highest available level to charge your BMW i4 at the fastest rate possible.
• Avoid excessive charging: While it’s tempting to fully charge your battery every time, it’s not always necessary. Charging to 80% or 90% can significantly reduce charging time and extend the lifespan of your battery.

Paying for Your Charging Session

Electrify America offers various payment options for charging your BMW i4.

• Electrify America App: The app allows you to pay for your charging session using a credit card or a linked payment method.
• RFID Card: You can purchase an RFID card from Electrify America and use it to pay for charging.
• Credit Card: Some Electrify America stations accept credit card payments directly at the charger.

Safety Tips for Charging Your BMW i4 at Electrify America

• Always follow safety instructions: Carefully read and follow the safety instructions provided at the charging station.
• Inspect the charging cable: Before connecting the cable, inspect it for any damage or wear.
• Avoid touching the connector while charging: The connector can become hot during charging.
• Keep the area around the charger clear: Ensure there is enough space around the charger to allow for safe access and movement.

Beyond Charging: The Electrify America Experience

Electrify America is more than just a charging network; it’s a comprehensive EV charging experience. Here are some additional features and benefits:

• Customer Support: Electrify America offers 24/7 customer support to assist you with any charging-related issues.
• Station Amenities: Many Electrify America stations offer amenities such as restrooms, seating areas, and Wi-Fi.
• Rewards Program: Electrify America has a rewards program that allows you to earn points for charging and redeem them for discounts or other benefits.

A Smooth Charging Journey: Final Thoughts

Charging your BMW i4 at Electrify America is a seamless and efficient process. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can confidently charge your EV and enjoy the freedom of electric driving. Remember to utilize the Electrify America app, choose the right connector, and follow safety precautions to ensure a smooth and enjoyable charging experience.

Answers to Your Questions

Q: What is the maximum charging speed for the BMW i4 at Electrify America stations?

A: The BMW i4 is capable of accepting up to 200 kW of charging power at Electrify America stations, though the actual charging rate may vary depending on the battery’s state of charge and other factors.

Q: How long does it take to charge a BMW i4 at an Electrify America station?

A: The charging time for a BMW i4 at an Electrify America station depends on the charging level and the battery’s state of charge. A typical 10-80% charge can take around 30 minutes to an hour.

Q: What happens if I forget my Electrify America app or RFID card?

A: If you forget your app or card, you can still charge your BMW i4 by using a credit card at the charger (if available) or by calling Electrify America customer support for assistance.

Q: Can I use a different charging connector other than CCS for my BMW i4?

A: The BMW i4 is specifically designed to use the CCS connector. While other connector types may exist, they are not compatible with your BMW i4.

Q: What should I do if I encounter a problem while charging at an Electrify America station?

A: If you experience any issues while charging, contact Electrify America customer support for assistance. They can help troubleshoot the problem and provide guidance.