The BMW i3: A Pioneering Electric Vehicle That Redefined Its Era

Launched in late 2013, the BMW i3 was a groundbreaking compact all-electric vehicle, available in an all-electric version and one with a range extender. Nearly a decade later, its technology remains unmatched by many contemporary mainstream electric cars. This article explores why the BMW i3 was a trailblazer in the electric vehicle market and evaluates its relevance as a second-hand option today.

Body and Chassis

Colin Chapman, founder of Lotus, famously stated that “adding lightness” is crucial, a principle taken to heart by BMW with the i3. Its construction utilized carbon fiber reinforced plastic (CFRP), aluminum, and magnesium—materials rarely found in mainstream, mass-produced vehicles due to their high expense and the complexity of large-scale production.

The i3 consisted of two core modules: the life module, which housed the passenger compartment and was crafted from CFRP for exceptional stiffness and occupant safety, and the drive module, made of aluminum, containing the chassis and drive components. Remarkably, the i3's initial model, equipped with an 18.8 kWh battery, weighed only 1,270 kg, setting a precedent for materials and manufacturing techniques in the automotive industry.

Powertrain and High Voltage System

Built on a dedicated electric vehicle platform, the i3 featured a rear-mounted engine that powered the rear axle—optimal for electric cars, given that the torque is maximum from zero rpm. It employed a 3-phase permanent magnet synchronous motor, renowned for its high efficiency, achieving up to 94% under ideal conditions.

The i3 offered two power outputs: 170 hp and 184 hp in the sportier “S” version, with maximum torque of 250 Nm and 270 Nm, respectively. The vehicle's single-speed gearbox had a combined reduction ratio of 9.67:1, resulting in impressive wheel torque figures of 2,418 Nm for the base version and 2,611 Nm for the “S.” Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h took just 7.2 seconds for the base model and 6.9 seconds for the “S,” with top speeds electronically capped at 150 km/h and 160 km/h, respectively.

Over its production run, the BMW i3 was updated with three lithium-ion battery options: 60Ah, 94Ah, and 120Ah. While BMW provided capacitance figures that don't directly translate to kWh, they correlated with net energy content of 18.8 kWh, 27.2 kWh, and 37.9 kWh, allowing for driving ranges between 160 km and 285 km. The initial i3 model's limited range led BMW to develop a range extender version, which incorporated a 647 cc two-cylinder motorcycle engine that augmented the electric range by generating electricity, achieving a maximum total range of 300 km.

Running Gear

Equipped with fully independent suspension throughout, the i3 utilized a classic McPherson strut design in the front and an advanced five-link system in the rear—one of the most effective suspension designs available. These design choices optimized both handling and comfort.

However, the tire selection was somewhat unconventional. The i3 featured a narrower 155/70/R19 wheel and tire combination to reduce aerodynamic drag and rolling resistance, while the sportier “S” version used an asymmetric tire arrangement of 175/55/R20 in the front and 195/50/R20 in the rear. Braking was facilitated through ventilated discs on all wheels, with the electric motor handling most everyday braking, achieving a maximum recuperation power of 50 kW.

Aerodynamic efficiency is critical for electric vehicles, and the i3 achieved a projected area of 0.69 m², with a drag coefficient (Cd) of 0.29.

Interior Philosophy

Inside, the innovative ethos of the BMW i3 continued with an absence of the B-pillar, opposing front and rear doors, and a flat floor, creating an unprecedented sense of space in the supermini segment. Its interior display layout, featuring a small instrument cluster alongside a larger infotainment screen, has influenced many contemporary designs.

Moreover, sustainability was a focal point in the choice of materials, incorporating recycled plastics, eucalyptus wood, olive leaf extract for natural tanning, and kenaf plant fibers to highlight the car's eco-friendly character. Collectively, these elements contribute to the i3’s holistic design philosophy.

Is the BMW i3 Still Relevant Today?

Absolutely. The high level of technology and material quality in the BMW i3 remains impressive. The most apparent drawback is its battery capacity, with the largest option at 37.9 kWh—a size that, while sufficient for urban driving, may limit longer highway trips. Nonetheless, the BMW i3 continues to be an excellent choice for city driving, also accommodating occasional countryside jaunts.

When it comes to the second-hand market, the BMW i3's average price is intriguing. According to CarGurus, the average costs about $26,178.12—a 33.9% increase over the past year. Currently, 446 units are listed for sale, ranging from $13,990 to $47,500. On mobile.de, there are 837 cars priced from €14,400 for a 2016 model with 68,000 km to €47,900 for a nearly new 2021 i3S with just 1,300 km. In the UK, Auto Trader lists 177 cars at prices ranging from £21,795 to £40,900.