BMW has upgraded the battery fitted to its i3 electric vehicle. The new battery gives an increased range and faster charging time without compromising interior space.
The BMW i3 94Ah replaces the current 60Ah model and has a capacity of 33kWh thanks to the higher storage density of the lithium ion cells. They are designed to perform their energy storage function over the vehicle’s entire lifespan and customers receive an 8-year or 100,000 mile warranty on the battery.
The hybrid synchronous electric motor, developed and produced specially for use in the BMW i3, generates an output of 170hp and provides maximum torque of 250Nm from the moment the car pulls away.
Driving range has been increased to 195 miles in everyday driving and new model now has DC Rapid-charge as standard. The charging time for the new i3 is less than three hours, in spite of the significantly larger battery capacity.
The optional range extender powers a generator in order to produce electricity. It operates only when needed extending the range by 81 miles in everyday conditions. The emissions of the i3 with range extender amounts to 12g/km, a 1g/km reduction in comparison to the previous model. The exclusively electrically powered BMW i3 produces zero emissions locally.
To compliment the new battery, BMW has included a number of new interior trim options to allow additional customisation. The i3 can be ordered in Protonic Blue with Frozen Grey metallic highlight, a colour which previously was reserved for the BMW i8 hybrid sports car.
The i3 94Ah will be on sale from June 2016 with prices starting from £32,330 or £35,480 for the range extender. A £4,500 OLEV government grant is available reducing the price to £27,830 and £30,980 respectively.
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