Exploring the Timeless Innovations of the BMW i3 Electric Vehicle

The BMW i3 was first unveiled at the end of 2013 as a compact fully electric vehicle, featuring two variants: an all-electric version and one with a range extender. Despite being nearly a decade old, its technology remains unmatched by many contemporary electric cars. In this article, we delve into the reasons why the i3 was ahead of its time and evaluate its viability as a second-hand purchase today.

Body and Chassis

Colin Chapman, founder of Lotus, famously stated that “adding lightness” is essential, and BMW embraced this philosophy with the i3. Constructed using carbon fiber reinforced plastic (CFRP), aluminum, and magnesium, this vehicle utilized materials that are typically rare in mass production cars due to their high costs and manufacturing challenges.

The i3 features two primary components: the life module and the drive module. The life module, composed of CFRP, ensures exceptional structural rigidity for optimum occupant safety, eliminating the need for a B-pillar. Meanwhile, the drive module, constructed from aluminum, houses the chassis and drivetrain, with magnesium supporting the instrument panel. These innovations resulted in the original BMW i3 weighing just 1,270 kg, a remarkable feat for a commercially produced vehicle.

Powertrain and High Voltage System

Built on a dedicated electric vehicle platform, the i3 maximized its capabilities by placing the engine at the rear, powering the rear axle. This configuration optimizes acceleration, capitalizing on the instant torque produced by the electric motor. The i3 employed a 3-phase permanent magnet synchronous motor, known for its impressive efficiency, with a theoretical peak of 94%.

Available power outputs included 170hp and 184hp for the sportier “S” version, with maximum torque ratings of 250Nm and 270Nm respectively. The transmission featured a single-speed gearbox with a reduction ratio of 9.67:1, delivering substantial wheel torque of 2418Nm for the base model and 2611Nm for the “S” variant. Acceleration figures were noteworthy, achieving 0-100 km/h in 7.2 seconds for the base model and 6.9 seconds for the “S” version, which had a top speed electronically capped at 150 km/h.

Throughout its production, BMW adapted the i3 with three different liquid-cooled battery options: 60Ah, 94Ah, and 120Ah lithium-ion batteries. While the capacity figures provided by BMW do not directly equate to kWh, they translate to net energy contents of 18.8kWh, 27.2kWh, and 37.9kWh respectively, with driving ranges from 160km to 285km. The initial 18.8kWh battery limited range led to the introduction of a range extender variant that utilized a two-cylinder 647 cc engine from BMW Motorrad, functioning solely as a generator and boosting maximum range to 300km for the 60Ah version.

Running Gear

The BMW i3 was outfitted with fully independent suspension systems at both the front and rear. The front axle utilized a classic McPherson strut design paired with a lower wishbone, while the rear featured a sophisticated five-link design—among the best in the industry for handling and comfort.

In terms of wheels and tires, the i3 initially paired 155/70/R19 tires with its lightweight body, which supported reduced aerodynamic drag and rolling resistance. The sportier “S” version used a unique tire combination of 175/55/R20 in the front and 195/50/R20 in the rear. The braking system incorporated ventilated discs on all wheels, with everyday braking primarily managed by the electric motor, providing a maximum recuperation power of 50 kW. With a coefficient of drag (Cd) of 0.29 and a projected area of 0.69 m2, the i3 exhibited commendable aerodynamic performance.

Interior Philosophy

The innovative approach of the BMW i3 is also evident in its interior design. The absence of a B-pillar, opposing front and rear doors, and a flat floor contribute to an expansive sense of space not typical in the supermini segment. Modern trends in automotive interior displays can trace their inspiration back to the i3, which features a small instrument cluster alongside a larger, freestanding infotainment screen.

Sustainability played a crucial role in material selection, with recycled plastics, eucalyptus wood, natural tanning agents from olive tree leaves, and kenaf plant fibers emphasizing the vehicle's eco-friendly focus. This commitment to sustainability and innovative design principles reinforces the overall ethos of the BMW i3.

Is the BMW i3 Still Relevant Today?

Absolutely. The technological advancements and high-quality materials utilized in the BMW i3 remain impressive. One notable drawback, however, is the relatively small battery capacity by modern standards—the largest being 37.9 kWh—sufficient for city driving but limiting for extensive highway trips. Nevertheless, the i3 remains a strong contender for those seeking an electric vehicle focused on urban commuting, with the capability for occasional longer journeys.

The used BMW i3 market is quite intriguing. According to CarGurus, the average price of a BMW i3 currently stands at approximately $26,178.12, reflecting a significant increase of 33.9% from the previous year. Presently, there are 446 BMW i3s available on CarGurus, with prices ranging from $13,990 to $47,500. Searching mobile.de reveals 837 listings, from €14,400 for a 2016 model with 68,000 km to €47,900 for a 2021 i3S with only 1,300 km driven. The UK market reveals slightly higher starting prices, as reported by Auto Trader, with 177 available listings ranging from £21,795 to £40,900.