New electric BMW here early next year

The new electric BMW i3 and i3s models are expected to be available in New Zealand at the start of next year.

The exact timing, pricing and specifications have yet to be finalised, BMW Group New Zealand says.

Hailed by BMW as the best-selling electric car in the premium compact segment, improvements include styling accents, cutting-edge equipment features and new digital services. There’s a new model variant, the BMW i3s, with a higher output, model-specific chassis technology, more dynamic driving qualities and design features.

BMW’s eDrive electric motor has two output levels, a high-voltage battery with a large capacity of 94Ah/33kWh, and optional range extender engine.

The new BMW i3 and i3s have their world premieres at the International Motor Show (IAA) in Frankfurt, September 14-24, with the global market launch in November.

Design touches convey a sporty look. Restyling of the front and rear aprons places emphasis on the car’s width.

The new BMW i3s comes equipped as standard with sports suspension that includes a 10-millimetre drop in ride height. The additional 40 millimetres of track width compared to the BMW i3 is given added impact by the black wheel arch borders. It’s available with 20-inch light-alloy wheels in double-spoke design that are 20 millimetres wider than the previously available versions.

Interior styling of both models provides a sense of roominess and feature sustainable materials.

The synchronous electric motor powering the new BMW i3 generates a maximum output of 125kW/170hp. Its peak torque is 250Nm, all available instantly from a standstill via a single-speed automatic transmission. It goes from 0-100km/h in 7.3 seconds, the top speed limited to 150km/h.

Located low in the floor, the lithium-ion high-voltage battery provides a range of up to 200km in everyday use.

The new BMW i3s provides an even sportier interpretation with a high-performance 135kW/184hp electric motor that generates peak torque of 270Nm. Its updated drive system includes modified motor control and specific taper roller bearings, which have been utilised to further optimise power delivery and the performance curve at higher rpm

It boasts sports suspension with specially developed springs, dampers and anti-roll bars. Drivers can also select SPORT mode using the driving experience control switch. This initiates more direct accelerator response and tighter steering characteristics.

The BMW i3s gets past 100km/h in 6.9 seconds on its way to a top speed of 160km/h. Its electric range is also up to 200km in everyday use.