New BMW i3 Neue Klasse Breaks Cover - Offers More Range Than Tesla Model Y

BMW has unveiled its second Neue Klasse model, the i3. This marks the beginning of a new era for the iconic 3 Series nameplate of the brand, with one of the most significant transformations yet. Following the iX3 SUV, it is the brand's new fully electric 3 Series and also the first sedan to feature the automaker's fresh design language. Even with this transformation, the car promises to carry the spirit of the 3 Series nameplate.

BMW i3: Range

Starting with the powertrain, the BMW i3 50 xDrive features two electric motors, one mounted on each axle, giving it all-wheel drive capabilities. The electric motors together put out 463 hp of power and 633 Nm of peak torque. The numbers are enough to give the electric vehicle in the performance sedan category. With all of this, the car is claimed to offer a range of 900 km on a WLTP cycle. This is more than Tesla Model Y's claimed range of 500 km on a single charge.

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BMW i3: Charging

With an 800-volt architecture, the electric car benefits from DC charging capacities of up to 400 kW, which helps in reducing charging time. The brand claims that the DC fast charger can add a range of up to 400 km within 10 minutes of charging. However, the battery capacity details are yet to be revealed. The i3 also gets Vehicle-to-Load (optional AC charging Professional required), Vehicle-to-Home and Vehicle-to-Grid charging functions.

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BMW i3: Mechanics

The BMW i3 gets a five-link rear suspension, along with tuned stabiliser bars designed to keep the car flat. Furthermore, this helps the car to maintain its composure on track, maintaining the spirit of the 3 Series nameplate. The brand is also offering an optional adaptive M suspension for the EV.

The braking of the car is supplemented by the electric motors, handling most of the work through regenerative braking. Meanwhile, the actual brakes have been designed to step in during aggressive driving or in emergencies.

BMW i3: Design

In terms of design, the BMW i3 showcases what BMW describes as a contemporary "2.5-box" design. It boasts a long wheelbase, minimal overhangs, and sleek, defined body lines that provide it with a stable, athletic posture. At the front, the design represents a shift towards more subdued kidney grilles, complemented by BMW's hallmark four-element lighting.

In the rear, a horizontal light signature accentuates the width and echoes the contours of the fenders, resulting in a unified and modern aesthetic. Thoughtful details, such as the positioning of the BMW roundel, integrate the design seamlessly from front to back.

BMW i3: Cabin

Inside the cabin, the car features a futuristic approach. The steering wheel features a distinctive two-spoke design that gives the controls an airy appearance. In front of the driver lies BMW's Panoramic Vision display, projecting essential information further into the driver's field of view for enhanced safety and convenience. Additionally, an optional 3D head-up display further elevates this experience, while most other functions are managed through a sizable 17.9-inch central touchscreen.