It seems that new details regarding the BMW i3, more or less official, are emerging as the debut date approaches. The BMW i3 is part of the new i sub-brand, a range of electric models that will bear BMW’s badge, the first models being scheduled to debut starting 2013.

More exactly, we talk about the BMW i3, a three-door fully electric model that fits best the crowded cities, its small dimensions consisting an advantage in this regard. The 2013 BMW i3 features a new drivetrain with an electric engine able to produce 134 horsepower, power which will be sent to the rear wheels. A hybrid version of the model might enter the range later.

On the other hand, the second model from the new i range is BMW i8, a vehicle based on the well-known Vision EfficientDynamics concept. If i3 wants to be a small and practical zero-emission vehicle, i8 inherits the supercar characteristics of the concept and therefore, is not anymore a fully electric vehicle.

We actually discussed about the powertrain which follows to be available under the bonnet of the new i8, a hybrid aggregate consisting of an electric and a petrol unit being most likely to be seen. If we shortly reviewed all the important details we already knew about BMW’s i range, let’s switch to the new information which concerns the i3.

The Bavarian zero-emission model features a set of lithium-ion batteries that is rumored to provide a driving range of around 257 kilometers and provide a top speed of 160 km/h. Moreover, some unofficial sources claim that the i3 will come with a luggage space of around 400 liters (14.1 cubic feet), which is quite a lot considering the dimensions and that we talk about a four-seater.

A lightweight structure will be used in the manufacturing process while BMW plans to produce around 40,000 units each year at the Leipzig plant where the new i8 will be manufactured too. If all these assumptions prove to be true, the new i3 can be characterized as an innovative eco-friendly model with enough power under the bonnet and a satisfying driving range.

According to the details above, the luggage space seems to be another key feature of the model even if you won’t bet on this at the first glance. The starting price is rumored to spin around $35,000 but is still quite prematurely to know the exact pricing and availability.

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Marcus M.

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