The refreshed redesign of the BMW i3 will also be seen alongside the upcoming ICE 3 Series, even though the EV and ICE versions use different platforms
BMW has unveiled the i3 sedan, which uses the brand’s latest ‘New Class’ platform. It was first seen with the iX3, making the i3 the second BMW car to use the advanced platform with 800 Volt architecture. The i3 nameplate also previously existed as a quirky carbon fiber hatchback sold from 2013-2022.
The BMW i3 badge has also been used in China for the i3 eDrive35L, a retrofit ICE to EV project. The new i3 is completely different and reflects BMW’s plans to electrify its core sedan lineup. Let’s see the details.
BMW i3 performance, range
There are likely to be multiple powertrain options for the i3. But details of only the i3 50 xDrive variant are available as of now. The specifications of this model are similar to the iX3 xDrive50. The i3 electric sedan uses dual electric motors, delivering a combined output of 469 PS and 645 Nm of torque. While most of the propulsion is provided by the synchronous motor mounted on the rear axle, the front asynchronous electric motor takes care of traction and overall efficiency.
According to BMW, this combo of synchronous and asynchronous motors offers several benefits. This helps reduce weight, optimize energy use, and reduce manufacturing costs. The BMW i3 is equipped with BMW’s sixth generation eDrive setup. Key features include 800-volt architecture, cell-to-pack construction, and cylindrical battery cells. These allow compact packaging and increased energy density.
The BMW i3 has an EPA range of 440 miles (708 km) and a WLTP range of 559 miles (900 km). DC fast charging is supported up to 400 kW, allowing the sedan to cover a range of about 400 km in just 10 minutes. The BMW i3 has a vehicle-to-load (V2L) feature, which can be used for appliances or as a power back-up for the home. When the sedan detects a charging scenario, the charging flap opens automatically.
With the i3, BMW has made the overall driving experience more responsive and predictable. This is achieved through the new Heart of Joy control system, which manages brakes, drive, energy recovery and some steering functions. It is being claimed that this system is 10 times faster than the earlier system. Other features include standard stroke-dependent dampers, a new five-link rear axle and anti-roll bars with heavily preloaded bearings. It also has an optional adaptive suspension setup.
BMW i3 – Design and Features
A seamless blend of signature features and contemporary styling can be seen with the i3. Key features include a new, wider kidney grille that integrates lighting elements. The side profile features smooth, shapely panels, flush door handles and a slim roofline. The traditional Hofmeister kink on the C-pillar can also be seen re-imagined with a stronger visual presence.
At the rear, the BMW i3 has a clean and streamlined design. Dimension-wise, the sedan is 4,760 mm long, 1,864 mm wide, 1,481 mm high and has a wheelbase of 2,898 mm. Inside, many features are borrowed from the iX3 SUV. Key features include a large 17.9-inch infotainment screen, pillar-to-pillar lower windshield display and optional 3D head-up display.
There’s a new steering wheel (also seen with the iX3) with illuminated controls, which light up only when needed. Other key features include panoramic sunroof, ambient lighting, leather-like materials, wireless charging, and physical buttons for important functions. The sedan features voice commands via Alexa and a range of cloud services.
BMW i3 launch
BMW plans to start production of the new i3 at its Munich plant in August. Deliveries are expected to begin around September or October. At a later date, BMW is also likely to introduce single motor variants and performance-oriented models of the i3. The BMW i3 will compete with the Tesla Model 3 and Mercedes-Benz C-Class EV.
