BMW i3 upgraded with more range 03 | 10 | 2018
BMW HAS FURTHER updated its i3 electric hatchback. In addition to tweaking the car’s trim and finish options, the i3 now gets a denser battery pack which, according to BMW, unlocks larger ranges for both the base i3 and the more powerful i3s. The new models go on sale at Scottish dealerships in December priced from £35,180 (OTR). (Related: Scots dealer is UK No1)
The base i3 now has a cell capacity of 120Ah, up from 94Ah. This means the battery pack capacity now stands at 42.2kWh, which is almost double the size of the original model launched in 2014. It stood at 22.6kWh. Developed in partnership with Samsung, the new battery sits in the same housing as the previous pack. (Related: BMW reveals hot new i3s)
The improvement has also increased the car’s range. Tested under the new WLTP rules, the 168bhp car now covers a maximum claimed range of 193 miles on a single charge. That’s a not insignificant increase of 34 miles over the previous version of the i3. (Related: Scotland charges ahead with EVs)
The improvement in range is slightly less for the more powerful, sportier i3s, which gains an extra 25 miles. Its new official WLTP maximum range is 177 miles. But when it comes down to ‘real world’ driving, BMW quotes a range of 162 miles for both i3 and i3s.
Performance figures remain the same, with a 7.3 second 0-62mph time quoted for the regular i3, and a 6.9 second time for the i3s.
As for charging, BMW says the new battery will take 15 hours from flat to 80% on a household 2.4kW three-pin plug. However, plugged into an 11kW BMW i Wallbox reduces that time to just 3hrs 12 mins. And for owners with a 50kW quick-charge station, an 80% charge from flat can be achieved in just 42mins. (Related: New Mini dealership for Scotland)
BMW has also introduced a new Sports Package for the basic i3. It includes the wider track and 10mm lower sports suspension from the i3s plus 20-inch alloy wheels finished in gloss black.
Buyers can also choose from a new metallic beige and grey body colour, plus an updated iDrive infotainment system with a new menu layout, adaptive LED headlights, and new interior upholstery options.
Related: BMW reveals 2018 X5
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Jim McGill