BMW announces two new i3 electric models

BMW has announced the 2018 version of its iconic electric, the i3, which features a new model variant, new styling, equipment features and new digital services.

Both models draw their energy from the lithium-ion high-voltage battery developed by the BMW with a capacity of 94 ampere hours (Ah) or 33 kilowatt hours (kWh). In the new i3, the synchronous electric motor generates a maximum output of 125 kW/170 hp, with peak torque at 250 Nm (184 lb-ft). 0-62 mph is achieved in 7.3 seconds, with the top speed limited to 93 mph.

The new BMW i3s features a high-performance 135 kW/184 hp electric motor that generates peak torque of 270 Nm (199 lb-ft). Its updated drive system includes modified motor control and specific taper roller bearings, which have been utilised to further optimise power delivery and the performance curve at higher rpm. At the limits of the motor speed range, the power and torque of the further developed drive system represent an improvement of up to 40% for the i3, according to BMW.

The i3s also features sports suspension with specially developed springs, dampers and anti-roll bars. Drivers can select SPORT mode using the Driving Experience Control switch, which initiates more direct accelerator response and tighter steering characteristics. 0-62mph is achieved 6.9 seconds on its way to a top speed of 99 mph.
 
On both models, the handling characteristics are improved by an optimised Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) system. The i3 now features a globally unique form of wheel speed limiting that ensures increased directional stability, both under dynamic acceleration and on the overrun with strong regenerative braking. Traction during pull-away on snow and wet roads has also been improved. Dynamic Traction Control (DTC) mode now boosts agility at higher speeds and during sporty cornering, allowing mild and safely controllable drifts when grip levels are reduced.

A 28 kW/38 hp two-cylinder range extender petrol engine is available as an option for both models. This extends the car’s overall range in everyday use by 150 kilometres (93 miles) to a maximum of 330 kilometres 205 miles)***. The all-electric range of the new BMW i3 with range extender is 225 to 235 kilometres (140 – 146 miles) as per NEDC and 190 to 200 kilometres (118 – 124 miles) as per WLTP. The corresponding figures for the new BMW i3s with range extender come in at 220 kilometres (137 miles) on the NEDC and 185 to 195 kilometres (115 to 121 miles) on the WLTP cycle.

On the NEDC cycle, the new BMW i3 with range extender returns combined consumption figures per 100 kilometres of 11.9 to 11.5 kWh of electric power and 0.6 litres of fuel (fuel consumption of 470.8 mpg imp; CO2 emissions: 14 –13 g/km). On the same combined NEDC cycle, the new BMW i3s with range extender consumes 12.5 kWh of electric power per 100 kilometres and 0.7 litres of fuel (fuel consumption of 403.5 mpg imp; CO2 emissions: 14 g/km).

The new BMW i3 and new BMW i3s will debut at the International Motor Show (IAA) in Frankfurt/Main in September 2017, with the global market launch beginning in November 2017.