BMW’s New i3: A 900km EV Aimed at Converting Skeptics
BMW is attempting to address range anxiety – a major barrier to electric vehicle adoption – with the new i3, a fully electric version of its popular 3 Series. The i3 boasts a projected range of 900km (approximately 560 miles) and impressive performance figures, signaling BMW’s commitment to the “Neue Klasse” platform and a future of electric mobility.
Neue Klasse Platform and Performance
The i3 is built on BMW’s “Neue Klasse” platform, a significant development in the company’s electric vehicle strategy. This platform, previously used in the iX3 electric SUV – named the Irish Times car of the year in December 2025 [Source: Irish Times] – now underpins a vehicle considered by many to be the quintessential BMW: a compact, four-door sports saloon.
The i3 50 xDrive model will feature a twin-motor, four-wheel-drive setup, delivering 469 horsepower (hp) and 645 Newton-meters (Nm) of torque. Whereas BMW hasn’t released official acceleration figures, estimates suggest a 0-100km/h time of around 4.5 seconds, slightly faster than the larger and heavier iX3 (4.9 seconds) [Source: Irish Times].
Range and Battery Technology
The most significant feature of the i3 is its projected range of 900km. This is achieved through a 108kWh battery pack utilizing BMW’s “Gen6” battery design, which increases energy density by 20% [Source: Irish Times]. While final WLTP (Worldwide Harmonised Light Vehicle Test Procedure) figures are pending, BMW is confident in this estimate, with real-world testing suggesting a range of at least 700km even with spirited driving [Source: Irish Times].
Design and Interior
The i3’s exterior design closely resembles the original Neue Klasse concept car, though with softened lines for production. It features a modern, sharp-edged aesthetic reminiscent of the 1980s E30 3 Series. The vehicle omits illuminated kidney grilles, opting instead for backlit pinstripes within a blanked-off digital grille, and incorporates LED light flicks that pay homage to BMW’s traditional quad-light design [Source: Irish Times].
Inside, the i3 features a “panoramic view display” – a full-width instrument screen – and a 17.9-inch central touchscreen. The touchscreen is angled slightly towards the driver and positioned closer to the hand, improving accessibility. [Source: Irish Times]
Future Models and Availability
BMW plans to expand the i3 lineup with a Touring (estate) model and a high-performance iM3 variant with over 1,000hp, expected in 2027. The company will also continue to offer petrol and hybrid-powered 3 Series models alongside the electric i3 [Source: Irish Times].
The i3 is expected to arrive in Ireland later in 2026, with pricing details to be announced. BMW suggests the i3 50 xDrive will be one of the more expensive models, with more affordable versions utilizing smaller batteries and rear-wheel drive also planned [Source: Irish Times].