BMW Unveils Electric i3 Sedan on Neue Klasse Platform
BMW has officially revealed the new electric i3 sedan, marking the first all-electric model in its 3 Series lineup and the second vehicle built on the Neue Klasse platform. This launch signifies a major step for one of the automaker's key models into the electric era, featuring an 800-volt architecture, sixth-generation batteries, and a new drive computer.
Initially, two all-wheel-drive variants will be available: the i3 40 xDrive and the i3 50 xDrive. Both are being produced at BMW's Munich plant, where series production commenced in recent months. The i3 50 xDrive boasts a net battery capacity of 108.7 kWh, delivering 345 kW (approximately 469 horsepower) and 645 Nm of torque, with a 0-100 km/h acceleration time of 4.7 seconds. Its stated WLTP range reaches up to 912 kilometers.
The i3 40 xDrive is equipped with an 82.8 kWh battery, producing 275 kW and offering a range of up to 710 kilometers. Both models support fast DC charging, with the 50 xDrive capable of up to 400 kW and the 40 xDrive up to 300 kW. Charging from 10% to 80% is estimated to take around 21 minutes. BMW claims that a 10-minute charge can add up to 423 kilometers to the 50 xDrive's range. The vehicles also feature bidirectional charging capabilities (V2L, V2H, and V2G).
Pricing in Europe starts at €59,900 for the i3 40 xDrive and €65,900 for the i3 50 xDrive. The sedan measures 4.76 meters in length, 1.87 meters in width, and 1.48 meters in height, with a wheelbase of 2.90 meters. It offers 420 liters of trunk space, plus a 31-liter front trunk. Inside, the cabin features the Panoramic iDrive interface and the Heart of Joy drive computer. The Symbiotic Drive assistance system allows for hands-free driving on highways up to 130 km/h in approved markets.
A performance-oriented i3 M60 xDrive variant is planned for 2027. The arrival date and local pricing for Israel have not yet been announced.
