BMW adds ‘s’ to i3 EV
BMW has added a new i3s model to its electric-vehicle range.
As with the standard i3, the sportier i3s will be available in either pure battery-electric (BEV) or range-extender (REx) versions the latter with a two-cylinder petrol engine acting as generator for the electric drive system when required.
A 94Ah (33kWh) battery is used by both models, but in the i3s power and torque go up from 125kW/250Nm to 135kW/270Nm. The i3s BEV is now the fastest version you can buy, with 0-100kmh in 6.9 seconds.
BMW claims a ‘‘real world’’ range of 200km for the BEV models and 330km for the REx versions.
The i3s has modified motor control and specific taper roller bearings, to give better power delivery at higher speeds.
It rides on sports suspension with specially developed springs, dampers and anti-roll bars. It sits 10mm lower than the standard i3 and has a 40mm-wider track, which is accommodated by black wheelarch borders. That comes courtesy of its own style of 20-inch wheel, which is 20mm-wider than standard.
The new i3 range will go on sale early this year, says BMW. The i3 starts at $76,900 and the i3s at $84,300. In either case the REx technology adds $7600.
Both the i3 and i3s carry facelift elements, including new front and rear aprons, extra chrome and fullLED lights and turn signals.