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The rebirth of the 3 Series in the electric era and a true technological leap for BMW

With the all-new BMW i3, BMW is not simply introducing another electric model. It is redefining one of the most important nameplates in its history. As the second model of the Neue Klasse, the i3 represents a clean-sheet rethink of the BMW 3 Series, translating five decades of driving dynamics, design and innovation into a fully electric future.

The i3 sits at the heart of BMW’s Neue Klasse platform, a next-generation EV architecture designed to deliver breakthroughs in:

• efficiency

• software integration

• driving dynamics

• digital user experience

At its core lies BMW’s sixth-generation eDrive technology, combining:

• new high-density battery cells (round cell technology)

• 800-volt electrical architecture

• advanced cell-to-pack battery integration

• highly efficient electric motors

Powertrain: electric performance, BMW style

The first version to launch is the BMW i3 50 xDrive, featuring dual motors and electric all-wheel drive. Key performance figures:

• 345 kW (469 hp) system output

• 645 Nm of torque

• dual-motor AWD configuration

Unlike traditional EVs focused purely on acceleration figures, the i3 is engineered around control, balance and consistency, core BMW principles. Power delivery is immediate yet progressive, with torque distribution constantly optimized between front and rear axles to ensure:

• maximum traction

• precise cornering

• stability under load

Range & charging: redefining long-distance EV usability

One of the most impressive aspects of the new BMW i3 is its long-distance capability.

• Up to 900 km WLTP range

• DC fast charging up to 400 kW

• Up to 400 km of range added in just 10 minutes

These figures place the i3 among the most capable long-range EVs on the market, directly addressing one of the biggest barriers to EV adoption: range anxiety. Thanks to the new round-cell battery technology and improved energy density, BMW achieves:

• higher efficiency

• reduced weight

• a flatter battery pack for improved packaging

Driving experience: Heart of Joy

BMW’s focus has always been driving pleasure and with the i3, that philosophy is taken to a new level. At the center of the experience is the “Heart of Joy”, a high-performance computing unit that controls key driving dynamics. Compared to previous systems:

• 10x faster processing speeds

• ultra-fast response to driver inputs

• seamless integration of powertrain, braking and chassis systems

This system works alongside three additional “superbrain” computers, forming a completely new electronic architecture that allows the car to react almost instantly to driver inputs. The result is:

• more natural steering feel

• smoother transitions between acceleration and regeneration

• greater confidence at speed

Design: a modern interpretation of a classic

The new BMW i3 introduces a fresh design language while staying true to the DNA of the 3 Series. Key design elements include:

• a 2.5-box silhouette with a long wheelbase

• short overhangs for dynamic proportions

• a sloping greenhouse for a coupe-like profile

• flared wheel arches for a wider stance

At the front, BMW reinterprets its iconic identity:

• the kidney grille merges with the headlights into a new light signature

• the classic “four-eyed” look evolves into a more digital, integrated form

At the rear:

• horizontal light elements emphasize width

• clean surfaces reflect precision and technological progress

This is a design that feels both familiar and forward-looking exactly what a modern 3 Series should be.

Interior: driver-focused, digitally advanced

Inside, the BMW i3 fully embraces its electric architecture, delivering:

• more interior space

• a flat floor

• improved passenger comfort

At the same time, BMW maintains its driver-oriented cockpit philosophy. The centerpiece is the new Panoramic iDrive, redefining how drivers interact with the car:

• wide, immersive display layout

• intuitive interface with minimal distraction

• seamless integration of driving data, navigation and infotainment

The cabin blends:

• high-tech minimalism

• premium materials

• strong ergonomic focus

Software & assisted driving: BMW Symbiotic Drive

The i3 introduces a new level of assisted driving with BMW Symbiotic Drive, representing a major step forward in:

• driver assistance

• human-machine interaction

• real-time decision making

Combined with the new computing architecture, this system enables:

• more natural driver support

• predictive assistance

• smoother transitions between manual and assisted driving

Bidirectional charging: energy ecosystem ready

The BMW i3 is designed not just as a vehicle, but as part of a broader energy ecosystem.

It supports:

• Vehicle-to-Load (V2L)

• Vehicle-to-Home (V2H)

• Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G)

This allows the car to:

• power external devices

• supply electricity to a home

• feed energy back into the grid

A key feature for future energy management and sustainability.

Positioning: what is the BMW i3 really?

The new BMW i3 is not just an electric sedan. It is:

• the electric successor to the 3 Series

• a technology flagship for BMW

• a benchmark for long-range EV usability

• a statement of BMW’s future direction

AutoNext Take

The new BMW i3 is one of the most important electric cars of the decade. Not because it’s the fastest. Not because it’s the most luxurious. But because it redefines what a BMW should be in the electric age.

With:

• groundbreaking range

• ultra-fast charging

• a completely new software architecture

• and a clear focus on driving pleasure

the i3 proves that electrification does not mean compromise, it means reinvention.