BMW i3: information and photos

Since the German brand launched its ambitious “Project i” in 2007, we have seen various concepts and important technological advances. However, today BMW presents the BMW i3, the first mass-produced model of the new brand that allows driving without producing emissions.

The BMW i3 is the model chosen for urban mobility. It has an electric motor that delivers a power of 125 kW, which equals a not inconsiderable 170 CV with a torque of 250 Nm. The motor weighs about 50 kilograms, while the weight of the batteries is offset by the carbon fibre used for some of its materials.

Starting with its dimensions, the BMW i3 comes very close to 4 metres, since it measures 3,999 mm with a wheelbase of about 2,570 mm. In addition to using carbon fibre to reduce weight, BMW engineers have placed the battery in a central position under the car, thus favouring agility and weight distribution across the axles in a 50:50 ratio. Another of its qualities that makes the city its natural habitat is its small turning circle, which is only about 9.86 metres.

Externally, we find 155/70 tyres that have been specifically designed and are characterised by being narrower, allowing dynamic behaviour and aerodynamic resistance to be optimised. The wheels are 19 inches and are 36% lighter than equivalent ones.

However, the most important thing about this BMW i3 is the synchronous hybrid electric motor developed by the brand within the “Project i”. As we mentioned before, it produces a power of 125 kW, equal to about 170 CV, with a torque of 250 Nm, which, being an electric drive, delivers from the moment it is started. In figures, its acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h takes just about 7.2 seconds, while reaching 60 km/h requires only 3.7 seconds. The lithium-ion batteries have a capacity that allows a range of up to 160 kilometres, provided we drive efficiently.

The power is transmitted to the rear wheels through a continuously variable transmission gearbox that allows continuous acceleration without losing power until reaching the top speed of 150 km/h.

As for equipment, the BMW i3 comes with all of the brand’s safety systems as well as the BMW ConnectedDrive system. The latter allows the driver to focus on navigation and management of the available energy, providing the driver with various relevant information on: battery charge status, efficient driving modes, or the nearest charging points to the current location.

Although an exact date for its launch at European dealerships of the BMW brand cannot yet be given, we will probably have to wait until the end of this year or the beginning of next to see the first i3 units on our city streets.

Source | BMW