As promised, today was the global debut for the BMW i3, the luxury carmaker's first in its "i Series" of electrified cars and featuring several innovations intended to match the company’s reputation for being a cut above.
The i3 will be the smallest BMW and approximately the size of a 1 Series, but with interior space on par with a 3 Series, and with range somewhere near that of a Nissan Leaf or Ford Focus Electric. A gas-powered 650-cc twin cylinder range extender will be a $3,850 option and the vehicle is slated for sale in the second quarter of 2014.
As the "world's first mass-produced car" using carbon fiber reinforced plastic, the i3 has been built from the ground up as a pure EV.
BMW says CRFP is "equally as strong as steel, while being 50 percent lighter, and 30 percent lighter than aluminum," and the estimated weight for the all-electric version is 2,700 pounds.
A smaller 22-kwh lithium-ion battery weighing about 450 pounds was deemed sufficient as there is less total vehicular mass to move around. The smaller battery also means less cost and shorter recharge times.
At the same time, the sturdy structure is said to be safe for occupants.
Constructed of aluminum, the "Drive Module" combines the battery, electric drivetrain, MacPherson strut and 5-link rear suspension system along with structural and crash components. The rear-mounted motor is close to the rear drive wheels. BMW says it gives impressive performance characteristics while also providing better traction.
In this case, 0-35 mph is said to take 3.5 seconds, 0-60 mph is said to be in around 7 seconds, and top speed is 93 mph. This is quicker than the much less expensive Chevy Spark EV which boasts a 400 pound-foot torque figure and around 7.6 seconds to 60.
Rated power for the i3 is 170 horsepower and 184 pounds-feet of torque.
Pricing including destination will start at $42,275 and the range-extended version will begin at at $46,125. The battery will include an 8-year/100,000-mile warranty. Included is roadside assistance if the battery loses a charge during a trip and the navigation system does shows charging station locations.
BMW is also offering house calls for customer test drives and special training for dealers. A fee-based loaner vehicle program, arranged by dealers is also available.
