The 2014 BMW i3 was unveiled simultaneously between London, New York and Beijing yesterday. The new BMW i3 is the Bavarian manufacturer’s first model in its ‘i Series’ range, which follows the design philosophy of building efficient, high-performance cars through sustainable materials and processes.
The BMW i3′s unique exterior styling includes a distinctive grille, U-shaped LED headlights and a ‘black belt’ that runs from the bonnet to the tailgate. The rear doors also open backwards, coach style, and the side contour optimise airflow, while the city car rides on large 19- or 20-inch alloys wheels.
Inside, BMW say the i3′s design has given it a similar amount of interior space to that of the 3 Series. The interior features “naturally treated leather, wood, wool and other renewable and recycled raw materials.” BMW is offering the i3 in three different trim levels, namely: Loft, Lodge and Suite. Standard equipment across the range includes air conditioning, USB/Bluetooth connectivity and a 6.5-inch iDrive display.
The BMW i3 is available as either an all-electric or range extended vehicle (REX). Thanks to Carbon Fibre Reinforced Plastic (CFRP) construction, the lightweight (1 195 kg) BMW i3 EV has a top speed of 150 km/h and a 0 – 100 km/h sprint of 7.2 seconds. These figures are courtesy of a 22 kWh lithium-ion battery and an electric motor that develops 125 kW and 250 Nm. A single-speed transmission channels power to the rear wheels. BMW say the i3 EV model has a range of between 130 – 160 km on a single charge.
The BMW i3 REX has nearly double the range of its all-electric sibling, thanks to a 650 cc twin-cylinder engine that does not provide any direct drive to the wheels, but instead charges the car’s battery. As a result, the i3 REX’s range is 300 km.
Pricing in Germany starts from €34 950 and £25 680 in the U.K. (after a £5 000 government subsidy). The BMW i3 costs just £800 less than the already frugal 320d EfficientDynamics, but BMW say the i3 will cost 40% less to run over a 36-month period.
