By making use of a new battery the BMW i3 has significantly increased its range. BMW hinted at an increase in both density and capacity thanks to a joint operation with Samsung for its new power source. The batteries will appear in both the standard (BEV) and range extension (REV) models.
Despite the density and volume being increased to 94 Ah and 33 kWh respectively (up by 34 Ah and 11 kWh) the physical dimensions of the battery remain unchanged. BMW test cycles conclude that the new battery shows the i3 to have a combined cycle range of 185 km but on the NEDC results were in the 300 km region.
The i3 REV still makes use of the 650 cc two-cylinder petrol engine but the fuel tank has been increased by 25%, increasing its range by 150 km more than the standard BEV.
Despite the dimensions of the battery being the same, its mass has increased by 124 kg. The BEV now weighs 1 343 kg while the REV tips the scales at 1 467 kg. With the increase in weight the 0-100 km/h acceleration time of the i3 remains at just over seven seconds for the BEV and eight seconds for the REV.
Charging time for the new battery is now 4,5 hours with a level two power source which is one hour longer than before. On the 50 kW fast charging source the battery will achieve 80% capacity in just 40 minutes;15 minutes longer than before. As a result 24 minutes of recharging relates to 100 km of range.
For those who have already purchased an i3 an option to swap the battery out is provided at a cost and the old battery will still be optional for customers hoping not to spend extra than currently expected on a new i3. As a finishing touch the Protonic Blue metallic paint seen on the BMW i8 will also be available.
International pricing for the new model has been revealed at €36 150 (R591 301,48) for the BEV and €41 150 (R673 085,92) for the REX. Local availability and pricing is yet to be confirmed.
