Munich. The BMW i3 (combined fuel consumption: 0.0 l/100 km; combined power consumption: 13.1 kWh/100 km; combined CO₂ emissions: 0 g/km) is sustainably on course for success - in both senses of the word. Almost seven years after its market launch, the purely electrically powered and thus locally emission-free compact model is still in continuous high demand. At the BMW Group plant in Leipzig, the 200 000th BMW i3 model rolled off the production line yesterday - almost silently as always. The BMW i3s (combined fuel consumption: 0.0 l/100 km; combined power consumption: 14.6 – 14.0 kWh/100 km; combined CO₂ emissions: 0 g/km) with Fluid Black metallic paint finish and accents in BMW i Blue was produced for a customer from Saxony and will be delivered by the BMW branch in Leipzig.

The BMW i3 with 125 kW/170 hp and BMW i3s with 135 kW/184 hp are built in Leipzig for the entire world market on a dedicated production line and by specially trained employees. With the start of production in 2013, the plant in Saxony became a pioneer and centre of excellence for sustainable mobility. The BMW i3 was the BMW Group's first purely electrically powered large-scale serial model and also the company's first vehicle with a passenger cell made of carbon fibre reinforced plastic (CFRP). The Life module made of CFRP is part of a vehicle architecture specific to BMW i and designed for electric mobility from the outset. It is shaped in Leipzig from carbon fibre scrims and assembled in a unique process developed by the BMW Group. This is followed by the union with the drive module, the aluminium chassis, which bears the drive, chassis and high-voltage battery. State-of-the-art manufacturing processes ensure that the body construction and assembly of the BMW i3 in Leipzig takes only about half the time required for conventional vehicles.

BMW i3 as innovation driver for electric mobility and lightweight construction.

The success of the BMW i3 and the experience gained in developing and manufacturing it have significantly boosted progress in the fields of electric mobility and lightweight construction. In this way the BMW i brand has become the workshop of the future for the entire company. The drive of the BMW i3s now also powers the MINI Cooper SE (fuel consumption combined: 0.0 l/100 km; combined power consumption: 16.8 – 14.8 kWh/100 km; combined CO₂ emissions: 0 g/km) to provide purely electric driving joy. In addition, the gross energy content of the high-voltage storage unit was almost doubled from initially 22.6 to 42.2 kWh without changing its size. The range of the BMW i3 thus increased to between 285 and 310 kilometres in the WLTP test cycle.

Based on the know-how acquired with the BMW i3, numerous innovations have also been achieved in the fields of drive, power electronics and charging technology. The fifth generation of BMW eDrive technology is now ready for series production. It is used, among other things, in the new technology flagship of the BMW Group, the BMW iNEXT, which will be manufactured at the BMW Group plant in Dingolfing, with components from the BMW plant Landshut, from 2021 onwards. The high-tech material CFRP is for example now also contributing to intelligent lightweight construction in the BMW 7 Series.

Leipzig as a location for the future: Battery module production to start in 2021.

The BMW Group plant in Leipzig will continue to make a significant contribution to expanding electric mobility in the future. The site will become part of the BMW Group's international production network for battery modules as early as 2021. By 2022, the BMW Group will invest more than 100 million euros in establishing battery module production in Leipzig. In future, the lithium-ion cells supplied, will be assembled into standardised modules in a highly automated process. These will then be assembled together with the connections to the vehicle, the control units and the cooling units in an aluminium housing specific to each model. By 2022 more than 150 employees will be working in the battery module production in Leipzig.

In this way, the expertise gained at this BMW i3 production site is consistently used for manufacturing electrified vehicles in Germany. The BMW Group plant in Leipzig, where in addition to the BMW i3, models of the BMW 1 and 2 Series with conventional and plug-in hybrid drive are also manufactured, is thus even more comprehensively equipped for the "Power of Choice" approach in the company's model strategy in the future.

Pioneer for premium electric mobility in the city and for an overall understanding of sustainability.

The BMW i3 was developed as a revolutionary new vehicle concept for individual mobility in urban areas. With the BMW i3, the BMW Group has provided significant impetus for change in the field of inner-city transport, which has also inspired other car manufacturers to devote more attention to electric mobility. Today, the BMW i3 is not only still the best-selling premium car in its segment, but also a world-renowned symbol of locally emission-free driving in the city and for commuting between home and work.

According to a 2019 study by the German Automobile Club (ADAC), customers benefit not only from ecological but also from significant economic advantages. According to the calculations, the total costs for a BMW i3 or BMW i3s are on average around 20 percent lower than for a BMW model with a combustion engine that is comparable in terms of engine performance and equipment. All expenditures for the acquisition, operation and depreciation of the vehicles were taken into account, with a holding period of five years each and a total mileage of 75 000 kilometres. Thanks to the now increased state subsidies for electrified vehicles, the lead of the BMW i3 and the BMW i3s in terms of economy is currently even greater.

In addition, the BMW i3 represents a new understanding of premium mobility, which is also strongly characterised by sustainability beyond the purely electric drive. Its roof is made of recycled CFRP at the BMW Group plant in Leipzig. Painting its plastic outer skin requires 75 percent less energy and 70 percent less water compared to conventional processes. 25 percent of the materials used for the thermoplastic exterior parts were either recycled or produced from renewable resources. A high proportion of renewable raw materials and recycled materials is also used in the interior. Production of the BMW i3 at the BMW Group plant in Leipzig is 100 per cent CO₂ neutral. Wind turbines on the factory premises supply the electricity required for production.

The outstanding life cycle assessment of the BMW i3 has already been confirmed by an ISO certificate issued by independent auditors immediately after its market launch. To this end, experts from TÜV Süd analysed all relevant data and evaluations, from which the environmental balance of the BMW i3 for the entire vehicle life cycle was derived, from raw material extraction and production to use and recycling. According to the study, the use of energy from the EU-25 electricity mix already resulted in a greenhouse gas potential reduced by around 30 percent compared to similar vehicles with conventional drive systems. When operated exclusively with regeneratively generated energy, such as wind or solar power, the CO₂ footprint was even reduced by more than 50 percent.

Fuel consumption, CO₂ emission figures and power consumption were measured using the methods required according to Regulation VO (EC) 2007/715 as amended. The figures are calculated using a vehicle fitted with basic equipment in Germany, the ranges stated take into account differences in selected wheel and tyre sizes as well as the optional equipment. They may change during configuration.

The figures have already been calculated based on the new WLTP test cycle and adapted to NEDC for comparison purposes. In these vehicles, different figures than those published here may apply for the assessment of taxes and other vehicle-related duties which are (also) based on CO₂ emissions.

For further details of the official fuel consumption figures and official specific CO₂ emissions of new cars, please refer to the “Manual on the fuel consumption, CO₂ emissions and power consumption of new cars”, available at sales outlets, from Deutsche Automobil Treuhand GmbH (DAT), Hellmuth-Hirth-Str. 1, 73760 Ostfildern-Scharnhausen and at https://www.dat.de/co2/.

In case of queries, please contact:

Wieland Brúch,
Product Communication BMW i and Electromobility

Tel.: +49-89-382-72652

E-mail: wieland.bruch@bmwgroup.com

Kai Lichte,

Head of Communication BMW Group Plants Leipzig, Berlin, Eisenach

Tel.: +49-151-607-38000

E-mail: kai.lichte@bmwgroup.com

Internet: https://newsroom.bmwgroup.com/global/en

E-mail: presse@bmw.de

Munich. With the introduction of 48-volt mild hybrid technology in additional model series from summer 2020, BMW continues to consistently reduce fuel consumption and emissions in its current vehicle fleet. From July and August 2020, both efficiency and dynamic performance will be optimised in 51 models with the use of a particularly powerful starter generator and an additional battery. This also applies to the new in-line 6-cylinder diesel engines in the BMW 7 Series and in the BMW X3, BMW X4, BMW X5, BMW X6 and BMW X7. Two additional engine variants are available for the BMW 2 Series Gran Coupé from July 2020 onwards. In numerous plug-in hybrid models, the new BMW eDrive Zone function will ensure an automatic switch to purely electric operating mode when entering inner city areas such as low emission zones.

The extension of the range of standard and optional equipment features in the areas of driver assistance systems, operation and networking contributes to an increase in driving pleasure. A new display and control system will be part of the standard trim in the new BMW 3 Series from July 2020. Among other things, BMW Operating System 7 enables use of the optional BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant. Furthermore, in the BMW 3 Series and other model series the range of functions of the optional Driving Assistant Professional is supplemented by Active Navigation Guidance and the Emergency Lane Assistant. With the optional smartphone integration, numerous current BMW models will enable use of Android Auto in addition to Apple CarPlay as of summer 2020.

Increased dynamic performance and reduced fuel consumption: 48-volt mild hybrid technology now in 51 BMW models.
From summer 2020 onwards, mild hybrid technology will be used in numerous additional BMW models to provide support and relief for the combustion engine. It consists of a 48-volt starter generator that enables particularly intensive braking energy recuperation along with an additional battery to store the electricity that is generated in this way. The 48-volt battery not only supplies the electrically operated vehicle functions, it also makes its energy available to generate additional drive power. For this purpose the current flows back to the starter generator, which now takes on the role of an electric drive. This reduces the load on the combustion engine, allowing it to run as often as possible in an efficiency-optimised load range. What is more, the generator creates an electric boost during acceleration. This instantly available additional output of 8 kW/11 hp supports dynamic power delivery during start and acceleration.

The 48-volt mild hybrid technology was first introduced in selected model variants of the BMW 5 Series in autumn 2019. This was followed by the BMW 3 Series models and several BMW X models. From July and August 2020, it will be available as standard in 37 further model variants of the BMW 3 Series, BMW 5 Series, BMW 6 Series and BMW 7 Series as well as the BMW X3, BMW X4, BMW X5, BMW X6 and BMW X7. All in all it will ensure efficiency and dynamic performance in 51 current BMW models.

More power, less emissions: the new in-line 6-cylinder diesel engines with optimised BMW TwinPower Turbo Technology.
A new generation of in-line 6-cylinder engines will make its debut in numerous BMW model series in summer 2020. These highly efficient aluminium power units, each with a capacity of 3.0 litres, combine their extensively further developed BMW TwinPower Turbo Technology with the new 48-volt mild hybrid system, thereby achieving particularly significant progress within the context of BMW EfficientDynamics. In addition to optimised turbocharging systems, the latest version of common rail direct injection with piezo injectors ensures that both performance and efficiency are significantly increased in the new diesel engines. The injectors now transport fuel to the combustion chambers in up to ten injections per cycle and at a maximum pressure of 2,700 bar.

With maximum output increased by 15 kW/21 hp to 210 kW/286 hp, the new diesel engine for the models BMW 730d (combined fuel consumption: 4.9 – 4.7 l/100 km; combined CO₂ emissions: 128 – 123 g/km) and BMW 730d xDrive (combined fuel consumption: 5.2 – 5.0 l/100 km; combined CO₂ emissions: 138 – 133 g/km), BMW 730Ld (combined fuel consumption: 5.0 – 4.8 l/100 km; combined CO₂ emissions: 130 – 126 g/km), BMW 730Ld xDrive (combined fuel consumption: 5.3 – 5.1 l/100 km; combined CO₂ emissions: 139 – 133 g/km), BMW X3 xDrive30d (combined fuel consumption: 5.6 – 5.2 l/100 km; combined CO₂ emissions: 147 – 137 g/km), BMW X4 xDrive30d (combined fuel consumption: 5.6 – 5.1 l/100 km; combined CO₂ emissions: 146 – 136 g/km), BMW X5 xDrive30d (combined fuel consumption: 6.2 – 5.7 l/100 km; combined CO₂ emissions: 164 – 150 g/km) und BMW X6 xDrive30d (combined fuel consumption: 6.2 – 5.7 l/100 km; combined CO₂ emissions: 162 – 149 g/km) demonstrates a perceptibly enhanced temperament. Its particularly spontaneous power delivery is due to the multi-stage turbocharging used for the first time in this version of the in-line 6-cylinder diesel engine, along with variable turbine geometry for the low-pressure stage of the system. Increased by 30 to 650 Nm, the maximum torque of the new drive unit goes on stream at between 1,500 and 2,500 rpm – a power boost that especially results in enhanced sprint capacity. For example, the BMW 730d and the BMW 730d xDrive have improved their acceleration from zero to 100 km/h by 0.2 seconds each to 5.9 and 5.6 seconds respectively.

The new diesel engine now also used in the BMW 740d xDrive models BMW 740d xDrive (combined fuel consumption: 5.4 – 5.2 l/100 km; combined CO₂ emissions: 142 – 136 g/km), BMW 740Ld xDrive (combined fuel consumption: 5.4 – 5.2 l/100 km; combined CO₂ emissions: 143 – 137 g/km), BMW X3 M40d (combined fuel consumption: 6.0 – 5.6 l/100 km; combined CO₂ emissions: 157 – 148 g/km), BMW X4 M40d (combined fuel consumption: 5.9 – 5.6 l/100 km; combined CO₂ emissions: 156 – 147 g/km) und BMW X7 xDrive40d (combined fuel consumption: 6.6 – 6.4 l/100 km; combined CO₂ emissions: 173 – 167 g/km) generates even greater pulling power. Its multi-stage turbocharging system comprises a high-pressure and a low-pressure turbocharger with variable turbine geometry. As a result, a maximum torque of 700 Nm is delivered between 1,750 and 2,250 rpm. The engine reaches its peak output of 250 kW/340 hp at 4 400 rpm. In the BMW 740d xDrive, for example, this increased power helps achieve a sprint from standstill to 100 km/h that is also improved by 0.2 seconds to 5.0 seconds.

The two new engines are feature exhaust gas treatment technology with engine-related components consisting of a diesel oxidation catalytic converter and an SCR coating on the diesel particulate filter. For optimum reduction of nitrogen oxide (NO_X) emissions, a second dosage unit is additionally integrated at the outlet of the engine-related SCR system. As a result, the models powered by the new in-line 6-cylinder diesel engines meet the Euro 6d emissions standard.

Expansion of the model range for the BMW 2 Series Gran Coupé.
The BMW 2 Series Gran Coupé model range will be extended from July 2020 with the addition of two new engine variants. A new entry-level diesel engine and an additional all-wheel drive model variant are available for the sporty, elegant four-door model in the premium compact segment. The new BMW 218d Gran Coupé (combined fuel consumption: 4.5 – 4.2 l/100 km; combined CO₂ emissions: 118 – 109 g/km) is powered by the latest version of a 4-cylinder diesel engine. The BMW TwinPower Turbo Technology in the 2.0-litre power unit now includes a two-stage turbocharging system as well as a likewise further developed common rail direct injection featuring solenoid valve injectors. The new engine delivers its maximum torque of 350 Nm between 1,750 and 2,500 rpm, reaching a maximum output of 110 kW/150 hp at 4,000 rpm. The new BMW 218d Gran Coupé accelerates from zero to 100 km/h in 8.6 seconds with the standard 6-speed manual transmission and in 8.5 seconds with the optional 8-speed Steptronic transmission.

The second diesel engine available for the BMW 2 Series Gran Coupé delivers a maximum output of 140 kW/190 hp and a maximum torque of 400 Nm. In the new BMW 220d xDrive Gran Coupé (combined fuel consumption: 4.9 – 4.5 l/100 km; combined CO₂ emissions: 129 – 119 g/km) it is now combined with intelligent all-wheel drive and an 8-speed Steptronic transmission. This enables the new model variant to accelerate from standstill to 100 km/h in 7.3 seconds. Thanks to state-of-the-art exhaust gas treatment including SCR catalytic converter with AdBlue injection, both new models meet the Euro 6d emissions standard.

Green light for BMW eDrive Zone: locally emissions-free travel in the city on an automated basis.
Innovative technology from the fields of electrification and digitalisation is combined in the new BMW eDrive Zone function available in the premium car manufacturer’s plug-in hybrid models. This globally unique digital service offers additional options for making optimum use of the capabilities of emissions-free driving. The BMW eDrive Zone function triggers an automatic switch to purely electric operating mode as soon as the vehicle enters selected urban areas such as low-emission zones.

BMW eDrive Zone will be a standard feature of all plug-in hybrid models of the BMW 3 Series, BMW 5 Series and BMW 7 Series as well as the BMW X5. The digital service uses geo-fencing technology via GPS to identify designated areas. eDrive zones of this kind are currently designated in some 80 cities throughout Europe. When the service is activated, each available eDrive Zone on the navigation map is graphically highlighted in the Control Display: a message appears to inform the driver that the vehicle will automatically switch to electric driving mode as soon as it enters an eDrive Zone.

From summer 2020, the above-mentioned plug-in hybrid models will also be fitted with an integrated drive-ready sound for electric power as standard. This means that both starting and stopping the electric drive will be accompanied by a distinctive acoustic signal. In addition there has been an expansion of the range of preconditioning functions, which is also a standard feature. Depending on the equipment fitted, more functions will be available that can be activated remotely by smartphone, in addition to interior cooling and heating. In future it will also be possible to activate the seat climate control before the start of a journey, for example. In the same way it will be possible to include the seat, steering wheel, exterior mirror and rear window heating systems in the preconditioning for heating the interior, as well as heating of the cameras for the driver assistance systems.

BMW 3 Series Sedan and BMW 3 Series Touring now fitted with BMW Operating System 7 as standard.
In the new BMW 3 Series, the latest generation of the display and control system will be a standard feature as of summer 2020. Previously only used in conjunction with BMW Live Cockpit Professional, BMW Operating System 7 offers extensive individualisation and personalisation of the content shown on the Control Display. The standard BMW Live Cockpit now also includes a redesigned instrument cluster with a 5.1-inch digital display at its centre. BMW Live Cockpit Plus, like BMW Live Cockpit Professional, also includes the BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant. This digital companion enables intuitive operation of numerous vehicle functions via voice control (“Hey, BMW”). In the BMW 1 Series and BMW 2 Series Gran Coupé, BMW Operating System 7 will also be part of the optional BMW Live Cockpit Plus from July 2020.

The M sports seats are new to the range of optional extras for the new BMW 3 Series Sedan and the new BMW 3 Series Touring. They feature excellent lateral support, a wide range of adjustment options and headrests with embossed M logo. The M sports seats for driver and front passenger are available in conjunction with the Model M Sport equipment line as well as for the BMW M automobiles of the new BMW 3 Series. The choice of exterior colours for the new BMW 3 Series is supplemented by the variant Phytonic Blue metallic.

Increased comfort and safety: Driving Assistant Professional with additional functions.
The optional Driving Assistant Professional is a particularly comprehensive collection of driver assistance systems designed to optimise comfort and safety: it is being used by BMW to pave the way to automated driving in numerous current models. The focus is on the steering and lane guidance assistant, which will be enhanced with additional functions from summer 2020 in the BMW 3 Series, BMW 5 Series, BMW 6 Series and BMW 8 Series, in the BMW X5, BMW X6 and BMW X7, and in all variants of the BMW M5 and BMW M8.

The new Active Navigation Guidance indicates lane changes that are necessary in order to continue driving along the selected route when destination guidance is active. The driver can then carry out this operation conveniently with the aid of the lane change assistant. Emergency Lane Assistant is another new function: this automatically guides the vehicle to the ideal edge of its lane in congested situations on motorways. In addition, Active Cruise Control with Stop & Go function will in future include an adaptive distance control that adapts to the respective traffic situation and environmental conditions.

Further progress is also being made in the intelligent control of the Speed Limit Info system with No Passing Indicator. In all model variants of the BMW 1 Series, BMW 3 Series, BMW 5 Series, BMW 6 Series, BMW 7 Series and BMW 8 Series, the BMW 2 Series Gran Coupé, the BMW Z4, the BMW X5, the BMW X6 and the BMW X7 as well as the BMW M5, the BMW M8, the BMW X5 M and the BMW X6 M, road sign detection will in future additionally take into account speed limits that are restricted in time and only apply on certain days of the week. On days other, the speed limit derived from the navigation data is displayed.

Optimised smartphone integration: Android Auto can now also be used in the vehicle in addition to Apple CarPlay.
Depending on the model series, either standard or optional smartphone integration will enable use not just of Apple CarPlay but also of the digital services provided by Android Auto in numerous current BMW models as of summer 2020. This means that owners of a smartphone with the Android operating system can now access their familiar smartphone apps in the vehicle, just like users of an Apple iPhone. These include the digital voice assistant Google Assistant, the map service Google Maps, music streaming services such as Spotify and Amazon Music, and the messaging service WhatsApp.

The systems are integrated directly in the vehicle's display and control system via a wireless LAN connection between the respective smartphone and the vehicle. Here, the driver can view all the important information from the apps on the Control Display and also navigation directions in the instrument cluster and the optional Head-Up Display.

BMW 7 Series and BMW 8 Series with optimised Integral Active Steering.
Sporty flair and ride comfort in the BMW 7 Series luxury sedans and the luxury sports cars of the BMW 8 Series benefit from Integral Active Steering. The optional suspension system combines a variable rack and pinion ratio on the front axle with selective co-steering of the rear wheels. Even at particularly low speeds of less than 3 km/h, the rear wheels are now countersteered. This gives the models of the BMW 7 Series and BMW 8 Series additional manoeuvrability when moving slowly in and out of parking spaces or passing through narrow gaps.

In addition, the BMW 7 Series will be available from July 2020 in the new exterior paint finish Phytonic Blue metallic and the BMW Individual paint finish Frozen Bluestone metallic. A fresh touch of luxury ambience is added to the interior with the BMW Individual leather steering wheel as well as the new version of the BMW Individual Merino full leather trim in the colour combination Smoke White/Night Blue/Black.

Extended Business Package for the BMW 2 Series Active Tourer and the BMW 2 Series Gran Tourer, new body finishes for the BMW i3 and numerous other models
The Business Package available for the BMW 2 Series Active Tourer and the BMW 2 Series Gran Tourer provides enhanced comfort and driving pleasure in city traffic as well as on lengthier trips. From July 2020 onwards it also includes Real Time Traffic Information. Another new addition to the range is the body finish in Cashmere Silver metallic, which is also available for the BMW X1. The BMW 2 Series Gran Tourer will also offered in Phytonic Blue metallic and Misano Blue metallic in future.

New body finishes are available for numerous other models, too. Phytonic Blue metallic and Sunset Orange metallic versions of the BMW 1 Series and the BMW 2 Series Gran Coupé will be on offer from July 2020. The body finish Phytonic Blue metallic will also be available for the BMW X5, BMW X6 and BMW X7 as of August 2020. What is more, the BMW X5 and BMW X6 can be fitted with the new Carbon Fibre interior trim finishers and M Carbon exterior mirror caps in conjunction with the M sports package.

The purely electrically powered models BMW i3 (combined fuel consumption: 0.0 l/100 km; combined power consumption: 13.1 kWh/100 km; combined CO₂ emissions: 0 g/km) and BMW i3s (combined fuel consumption: 0.0 l/100 km; combined power consumption: 14.6 – 14.0 kWh/100 km; combined CO₂ emissions: 0 g/km) will be available from summer 2020 in the new body finish Blue Ridge Mountain with accentuations in Frozen Grey metallic.

Meanwhile new BMW Individual body finishes are available for the model variants of the high-performance sports car BMW M8. For the BMW M8 Series Coupé (combined fuel consumption: 10.6 l/100 km; combined CO₂ emissions: 242 g/km*) and the BMW M8 Convertible (combined fuel consumption: 10.8 l/100 km; combined CO₂ emissions: 246 g/km), the Ametrin metallic variant is now newly available. For both models and for the BMW M8 Gran Coupé (combined fuel consumption: 10.7 l/100 km; combined CO₂ emissions: 244 g/km), the versions Bluestone metallic, Frozen Brands Hatch Grey metallic and Frozen Motegi Red metallic are likewise available.

* All new models available from start of production in July or August 2020

Munich. Trailblazer for sustainable mobility and endurance runner – within the six years following its launch, the BMW i3 has become an extremely successful model and a symbol of electric mobility. Since its market launch, it has been the most widely sold electric vehicle in the premium compact segment. More than 165,000 units have been sold worldwide to date. And since the car’s launch, sales figures have steadily increased year after year. The BMW i3 convinces in everyday use with a future-oriented interpretation of driving pleasure and versatile qualities reaching far beyond driving short distances in major metropolitan regions. This is underscored by the experience gained by electric car pioneers who regularly travel longer distances in their BMW i3 and have each completed more than 200,000 emission-free kilometres.

Thanks to its role as a visionary technology flagship and continuing sales success since its launch in 2013, the BMW i3 has acquired the status of an icon. The BMW Group will continue to further develop this vehicle and currently plans to extend production until at least 2024. Customers emphasize above all the reliability, durability and the practicable range of the BMW i3, whether in the heat of South Africa or in the cool north of Sweden. The first all-electric vehicle from the BMW Group has for years now proven everywhere to be a cost-effective means of transport that is fully suitable for day-to-day use. Customers who had their BMW i3 delivered shortly after its launch and since then have subjected both the vehicle and its original battery to a real endurance test, use sustainable mobility not only for daily commuting between home and the workplace, but also regularly for longer distances and even holiday trips.

Over 277,000 kilometres with the original set of brake pads.

“The vehicle concept of the BMW i3 is unique,” comments Helmut Neumann from the community of Titz in North Rhine Westphalia. “It looks so modern from the outside that people still turn around to catch a glimpse of it.” Neumann has been driving around locally emission-free since 2014 and even drove his BMW i3 BMW (60 Ah) (combined fuel consumption: 0.0 l/100 km; combined power consumption: 12.9 kWh/100 km; combined CO2 emissions: 0 g/km) as far as Berlin and the Alps without any trouble. “Apart from the immense driving pleasure, the BMW i3 is simply an extremely economical car,” he says. “This applies both to power consumption and maintenance costs alike.” With an average power consumption of 13 kWh per 100 kilometres over the entire lifespan, energy costs are kept to an absolute minimum – not only compared with an automobile with combustion engine, but also with other electric vehicles. At an electricity rate of 30 cents per kilowatt-hour, Neumann’s energy costs are just EUR 3.90 per 100 kilometres.

An analysis by the German Automobile Club ADAC has already shown that in addition to ecological aspects, economical aspects speak in favour of the electric vehicle. In a comparison of overall costs, the BMW i3 was around 20 percent better in terms of size and performance than a comparable BMW model powered by a combustion engine. In addition to lower energy costs and high value retention, low expenditure for maintenance and wear also contribute towards cost-effectiveness. For the driver of a BMW i3, oil changes or defective exhaust systems are relicts of the past. Deceleration is usually effected by means of recuperation. Therefore, even after over 277,000 kilometres, Helmut Neumann has still not had to replace the brake pads and discs on his BMW i3 one single time.

Neumann is one of the customers who participated in the retrofit programme and substituted the 60 Ah battery of his BMW i3 with a gross energy content of 22 kWh for a 94 Ah high-voltage battery unit (BMW i3 (94 Ah): combined fuel consumption: 0.0 l/100 km; combined power consumption: 13.6 – 13.1 kWh/100 km; combined CO2 emissions: 0 g/km) with a higher energy content of 33 kWh. The new battery offers greater energy reserves. “This makes things simply more convenient on long journeys,” he says.

Consistent vehicle range confirms the quality of the high-voltage battery.

Experience obtained by customers who use a BMW i3 from the first years of production shows that even with the original battery, the achievable vehicle range decreases only marginally even after high mileage. This validates the BMW Group’s expectations in regards to the quality of the high-voltage battery unit. Not one BMW i3 high-voltage battery has had to be replaced due to premature ageing to date. As the battery’s potential is far from being exhausted when reaching the previously quoted 100,000 kilometres, the BMW Group has now extended its European warranty for the battery in new BMW i3 vehicles even further. The maximum mileage over a warranty period has been extended to 8 years and/or 160,000 kilometres.

The BMW Group has also developed solutions for re-using batteries that are no longer suitable for demanding use in automobiles. After a long life in cars they can still provide valuable service as stationary energy storage units. High-voltage batteries from pre-series vehicles and those handed in by customers participating in the BMW i3 retrofit programme are used on the grounds of the BMW plant in Leipzig as storage units for the green power produced there by means of wind turbines.

Offering a range that is actually achievable in practice, the BMW i3 meets the requirements of regular long-term use. Gabriele Forster from Austria immediately found the ideal drive and charge rhythm, for example. She made a conscious decision in favour of an environmentally friendly vehicle with which she now commutes every day between home and work. At midday and overnight she plugs her BMW i3 (60Ah) into a wall box, which is sufficient to cover a distance of around 200 kilometres each day with a battery that has a capacity of 22.6 kWh.

Robert Cleary from the US drives locally emission-free almost 150 kilometres every day. Only on one single occasion did he run out of power – about 50 metres from his front driveway. The problem was solved using an extension cable. Robert had already participated in field testing with the BMW Active E and in 2014 was therefore given a BMW i3 (60Ah) in the “Electronaut” version for electric vehicle pioneers. His car constantly provides a topic for discussion. Together with colleagues from his company, Robert initiated an electric vehicle workgroup that, among other things, advocates the provision of additional public charging stations. He is convinced that “electric driving strengthens environmental awareness”.

To Shaun Maidment from South Africa “range anxiety” is completely unknown. “I once drove the BMW i3 from Johannesburg to Cape Town. It took slightly longer, but it was okay,” he says. On normal workdays, he drives up to 300 kilometres, making use of customer visits to charge the battery. In 2014, Maidment opted for a BMW i3 (60 Ah) with Range Extender (combined fuel consumption: 0.6 l/100 km; combined power consumption: 13.5 kWh/100 km; combined CO2 emissions: 13 g/km). However, he now considers the petrol-driven “emergency power generator” indispensable. “The Range Extender is essentially just a kind of assurance.” In order to further promote electric mobility in his home country, Maidment has launched a crowd funding platform designed to support the installation of further public charging stations in South Africa.

With a battery of the latest generation installed in the BMW i3 (120 Ah) (combined fuel consumption: 0.0 l/100 km; combined power consumption: 13.1 kWh/100 km; combined CO2 emissions: 0 g/km), whose gross energy content has now been extended to 42.2 kWh, it was possible to increase the vehicle range to values between 285 and 310 km as per WLTP test cycle and to 260 kilometres in everyday use. This equates to an increase of around 50 percent vs. the BMW i3 featuring a high-voltage battery of the first generation.

Sustainable driving pleasure – a characteristic feature of the BMW i3.

Even after many years of all-electric driving, customers are still fascinated by the spontaneous power and torque of the electric motor and the one-pedal feeling with which their vehicle decelerates by means of recuperation. “In the past, I have also tested other electric vehicles, also larger and faster ones,” says Rob van Roon from the Netherlands, “but none of them was as agile and easy to handle as the BMW i3.” Since the end of 2013, Roon has driven 276,000 kilometres with the first series production electric vehicle from the BMW Group, with another 25,000 having been added since March 2019 in a new BMW i3 (120 Ah). The new model only needs to be charged once a day, and van Roon usually knows how to make practical use of this. “Charging doesn’t necessarily mean waiting,” he says. “I spend the time doing administrative work or making phone calls, which demands my full attention.” On long journeys he has discovered the advantages of the quick charging stations from Ionity, which can be found at around 200 service areas along European long-haul routes. “If you can eat there, you can charge your car there,” he has noticed. Consequently, Rob van Roon and his family have driven their BMW i3 on trips taking them as far as the North Cape, the Algarve and Sicily.

In October 2013, Leif Carlsson from Sweden had already taken the first opportunity of a test drive in Stockholm. “After one single lap I was convinced – this is my car. It was the coolest drive I had ever experienced.” Today he still drives a BMW i3 (60Ah) with Range Extender every day and after travelling more than 216,000 kilometres, he enjoys the ideal balance between driving pleasure and sustainability. At first, it is sufficient to charge the car from conventional power sockets at home or at the workplace. In Sweden, there is no shortage of these even in multi-storey car parks, because there, auxiliary heating systems in automobiles are often supplied with electricity from the mains. Meanwhile, quick charging stations have been installed at workplaces and the network of public charging stations is becoming increasingly denser. Therefore, Carlsson now hardly ever uses the Range Extender. On the other hand, he still appreciates the auxiliary heating in his BMW i3 during the winter. The timer function works perfectly. When I get in the car to leave, the interior is warm and the windows free from ice and snow.”

For João Gonçalves from Portugal a test drive in the winter of 2013 was also enough. It was “Love at first sight – combined with many economical and ecological advantages.” Since then he has enjoyed every trip “to work, in his spare time and on holidays. My BMW i3 takes me simply everywhere.” He drives up to 250 kilometres a day and an opportunity to recharge the battery is always easily found during working hours at the office or when visiting customers. Meanwhile Gonçalves changed to a BMW i3s (120 Ah) (combined fuel consumption: 0.0 l/100 km; combined power consumption: 14.6 – 14.0 kWh/100 km; combined CO2 emissions: 0 g/km). The increased output of 135 kW/184 PS hp adds to driving pleasure and the high-voltage battery’s extended storage capacity “makes daily life even easier”, he says. “And longer journeys are now more comfortable and faster.” To prepare for long journeys Gonçalves uses the navigation system of the BMW i3. “It plans my route and indicates quick charging stations along the way, so I can be sure of reaching my destination without any problems.”

Munich. Premium automobile manufacturer BMW is consistently moving ahead with the electrification of its drive portfolio and now presents its latest plug-in hybrid models at the 2019 Geneva Motor Show. At the same time, BMW also announces the market launch of an additional sports activity vehicle (SAV) with electric drive. The globally popular BMW X3 will likewise be produced in a plug-in hybrid variant as of December 2019. This makes it the first model of the brand to be offered with both a conventional combustion engine and a plug-in hybrid system – with the addition of a purely electrically powered version in 2020.

Once again in 2018, the BMW Group further consolidated its status as a pioneer and market leader in the field of electrified automobiles (source: IHS Markit New Registrations 2018 Report 04. 01. 2019). With a market share of more than 9 per cent, the company leads the worldwide ranking of established premium providers of vehicles that are purely electrically powered or run on plug-in hybrid systems. In 2018 the BMW Group was the market leader in the premium segment of electrified vehicles in both Germany and in China. With a share of more than 16 per cent, the company also once again led the overall European market for electrified vehicles. BMW Group achieved a new worldwide sales record in 2018 with more than 140 000 units of electrical and plug-in hybrid vehicles sold – an increase of 38.4 per cent over the previous year. As one of the four future-oriented ACES topic areas (Autonomous, Connected, Electrified and Services/Shared), electromobility is one of the key elements of the company’s strategy NUMBER ONE > NEXT. The aim of the BMW Group is to have put more than half a million electrified vehicles of its brands on the road by the end of 2019.

With the purely electrically powered BMW i3 (BMW i3: combined power consumption: 13.1 kWh/100 km*; BMW i3s: combined power consumption: 14.6 – 14.0 kWh/100 km*), the BMW i8 Coupé (combined fuel consumption: 1.8 l/100 km; combined power consumption: 14.0 kWh/100 km; combined CO₂ emissions from fuel: 42 g/km*) and the BMW i8 Roadster (combined fuel consumption: 2.0 l/100 km; combined power consumption: 14.5 kWh/100 km; combined CO₂ emissions from fuel: 46 g/km*), the plug-in hybrid variants of the BMW X5 and the BMW X3, the BMW 2 Series, BMW 3 Series, BMW 5 Series and BMW 7 Series, the BMW X1 xDrive25Le produced in China for the local market, the MINI Cooper S E Countryman ALL4 (combined fuel consumption: 2.5 – 2.4 l/100 km; combined power consumption: 13.7 – 13.4 kWh/100 km; combined CO₂ emissions: 56 – 55 g/km*) and the purely electrically powered MINI, the BMW Group will have 12 electrically powered models in its programme by the end of 2019. Not only is the sheer number of vehicles available unique but also their variety – from the premium compact segment through to the mid-range, upper mid-range and luxury performance segment, and also including the sports car and sports activity vehicle categories. By 2025 the BMW Group will have increased the selection of its brands’ electrically powered vehicles to at least 25 models.

World premiere: the BMW X3 xDrive30e with plug-in hybrid drive.

BMW starts production of another SAV with plug-in hybrid drive in December 2019, thereby further expanding its range of electrically powered vehicles. Seeing its world premiere at the 2019 International Geneva Motor Show, the BMW X3 xDrive30e combines the versatile properties of a premium mid-range sports activity vehicle with cutting-edge BMW eDrive technology. Its robust characteristics, sporty driving performance figures and all-wheel drive system BMW xDrive – also active when running on electric power alone – are combined with outstandingly low levels of fuel consumption and exhaust emissions. Due to the use of the very latest battery technology, the BMW X3 xDrive30e achieves an electrically powered range of up to 50 kilometres*. Thanks to BMW eDrive technology, its combined fuel consumption is reduced to up to 2.4 litres per 100 kilometres*, with CO₂ emissions of up to 56 grams per kilometre*.

The plug-in hybrid system in the BMW X3 xDrive30e consists of a 4-cylinder petrol engine with BMW TwinPower Turbo Technology and an electric motor. Both drive units put their power on the road – or unsurfaced terrain – via an 8-speed Steptronic transmission and the intelligent all-wheel drive system. Their joint system output of 185 kW/252 hp can be increased by up to 30 kW/41 hp by temporary use of the electric motor's peak output. The BMW X3 xDrive30e takes just 6.5 seconds (provisional figure) to accelerate from zero to 100 km/h.

The latest BMW plug-in hybrid model is fitted with a lithium-ion battery which is positioned under the rear seat in order to save space. With a luggage volume of 450 litres, the transport capacity of the BMW X3 xDrive30e is at the level of those model variants which are fitted with a conventional engine.

Other world premieres in Geneva: BMW 330e Sedan, BMW X5 xDrive45e and the plug-in hybrid models of the new BMW 7 Series.

The leading role of the BMW Group in the area of electrification is also reflected in its current engine range. At the 2019 International Geneva Motor Show, BMW presents the second generation of plug-in hybrid models in as many as three vehicles segments.

The new BMW 330e Sedan is especially impressive due to an increase in electrically powered range as compared to its predecessor model of some 50 per cent to up to 60 kilometres*, a level of fuel consumption that has been reduced to up to 1.7 litres per 100 kilometres* and CO₂ emissions reduced to 39 grams per kilometre* – all combined with the sports sedan’s hallmark driving pleasure. The system output of its plug-in hybrid drive amounts to 185 kW/252 hp – with the possibility of a temporary increase by an additional 30 kW/41 hp using the standard XtraBoost. As a result, the new BMW 330e Sedan does the sprint from standing to 100 km/h in 6.0 seconds (provisional figure).

Increased output, efficiency and electrically powered range are also offered by the latest version of the BMW X5 with plug-in hybrid drive. The new BMW X5 xDrive45e is now fitted with an in-line 6-cylinder petrol engine adapted on a model-specific basis combined with an electric motor – with a system output that is now increased to 290 kW/394 hp. 5.6 seconds (provisional figure) is all it takes the sports activity vehicle to accelerate from zero to 100 km/h. Its electrically powered range is now approximately 80 kilometres*, almost three times that of its predecessor. As such, day-to-day commuter runs can easily be covered on electric power only, thereby reducing local emissions to zero. With its 69-litre fuel tank, the BMW X5 xDrive45e is also perfectly suited to use over long distances. Its progressive plug-in hybrid drive technology reduces combined fuel consumption to up to 2.1 litres per 100 kilometres* and CO₂emissions from fuel to up to 49 grams per kilometre*. The qualities of the BMW X5 xDrive45e as a travel vehicle are likewise borne out by its versatile luggage compartment: here the storage volume of 500 to 1 716 litres is only very slightly less than that offered by variants of the SAV that are powered by conventional means. The ground-breaking all-round properties of the BMW X5 xDrive45e are complemented with the intelligent all-wheel drive system BMW xDrive. This transfers the power of both drive units to all four wheels, providing sports-style driving pleasure on the road and supreme off-road performance over unsurfaced terrain.

In the plug-in hybrid models of the new BMW 7 Series, the sporty flair, travel comfort and feel-good ambience of a luxury sedan are combined with the ability to enjoy locally emissions-free and virtually noiseless mobility. Their electrically powered range has been increased by almost 30 per cent as compared to the predecessor models, now at a distance of between 50 and 58 kilometres*. The model range comprises the BMW 745e (combined fuel consumption: 2.3 – 2.1 l/100 km; combined power consumption: 15.6 – 15.1 kWh/100 km; combined CO₂ emissions: 52 – 48 g/km*), the long version BMW 745Le (combined fuel consumption: 2.3 –2.2 l/100 km; combined power consumption: 15.7 – 15.6 kWh/100 km; combined CO₂ emissions: 53 – 50 g/km) and the BMW 745Le xDrive (combined fuel consumption: 2.6 – 2.3 l/100 km; combined power consumption: 16.3 – 15.8 kWh/100 km; combined CO₂ emissions: 59 – 52 g/km*) with extended wheelbase and intelligent all-wheel drive. Its drive system now comprises an in-line 6-cylinder petrol engine adapted on a model-specific basis together with an electric motor. By setting the drive experience switch to SPORT mode, the driver can tap into a system output of 290 kW/394 hp. The new BMW 745e accelerates in 5.2 seconds from zero to 100 km/h, while the new BMW 745Le takes 5.3 seconds. Meanwhile the new BMW 745Le xDrive reaches the 100 km/h mark from standing in 5.1 seconds.

BMW 530e Sedan and BMW 225xe Active Tourer with further developed lithium-ion batteries and increased electrically powered range.

The latest progress in the field of battery cell technology has also led to an extension of the options for locally emissions-free driving in the plug-in hybrid models of the BMW 5 Series and BMW 2 Series. Although its dimensions remain unchanged, the new lithium-ion battery for the plug-in hybrid model of the BMW 5 Series Sedan now has a gross energy content that has been increased from 9.2 to 12.0 kWh. This means an increase in electrically powered range by more than 30 per cent to 64 kilometres*. The BMW 530e Sedan now achieves a combined fuel consumption of at least 1.7 litres per 100 kilometres* and CO₂ emissions of at least 38 grams per kilometre*. As an additional model variant, the all-wheel drive BMW 530e xDrive Sedan will also be included in the programme worldwide from July 2019 onwards. The latter achieves an electrically powered range of up to 57 kilometres*. Its combined fuel consumption is at least 1.9 litres per 100 kilometres*, while CO₂ emissions are at least 44 grams per kilometre*.

In the BMW 225xe Active Tourer, state-of-the-art battery cell technology paves the way to further reduced consumption figures as well as an increase in the electrically powered range of more than 25 per cent to up to 57 kilometres*. While retaining the same dimensions as before, its lithium-ion battery now has a gross energy content that has been increased from 7.7 to 9.7. The combined fuel consumption of the BMW 225xe Active Tourer is at least 1.9 litres per 100 kilometres*, its combined power consumption is at least 14.7 kWh per 100 kilometres and its CO₂ emissions level is at least 43 grams per kilometre*. The hybrid-specific all-wheel drive system contributes to the BMW 225xe Active Tourer's sporty and versatile driving properties. Its standard and optional fittings include numerous modern driver assistance systems as well as the current innovations in the field of intelligent connectivity and digital services – for increased convenience when charging the high-voltage battery and an even more intense electrical driving experience.

Cutting-edge battery technology, new operating system and innovative digital services for an optimised electric driving experience.

In addition to the very latest battery technology, the plug-in hybrid variants of the new BMW 3 Series Sedan, the new BMW X5 and the new BMW 7 Series also feature a new display and operating system as well as innovative digital services for an even more intense electric driving experience. Their standard fittings include the BMW Live Cockpit Professional with newly designed screens in the instrument panel and the Control Display, which also provide clearly laid-out details of the battery charge state, electrically powered range and operating mode of the plug-in hybrid system. The buttons used to select the drive mode are now integrated in the drive experience switch unit. Here, a press of the button is all that is needed to activate the modes SPORT for a particularly dynamic set-up and ADAPTIVE for a set-up that is geared towards the relevant driving style and situation, as well as the three operating modes HYBRID, ELECTRIC and BATTERY CONTROL. HYBRID mode serves as the standard setting that ensures a balanced set-up and optimised interaction between the combustion engine and electric motor. It also possible to select ELECTRIC mode as the standard setting via the iDrive menu. The HYBRID button is pressed twice to activate this operating mode in an efficiency-optimised version (HYBRID ECO PRO). The coasting function is one of the factors that contributes to a further reduction in fuel consumption.

The technology of the intelligent energy management system has likewise been further optimised. Since this is now linked to the navigation system, the interaction between combustion engine and electric motor can be adapted more precisely to the route and driving situation. In the new BMW 330e Sedan and the new BMW X5 xDrive45e, a control unit that draws on navigation and sensor data is also able to optimise brake energy recuperation efficiency in HYBRID ECO PRO mode. When approaching a junction or a vehicle driving ahead, for example, recuperation can be put to particularly intensive use for the purpose of deceleration.

During the charging process, the fully digital instrument panel provides graphically displayed information on the battery's current charge status and therefore the car’s potential electrically powered range. The graphic display – designed individually for each vehicle – also shows the amperage available at the charge station being used, as well as indicating when the battery is fully charged.

New digital services help make it more attractive and convenient to charge the high-voltage battery when out and about. For example, the navigation system shows the driver nearby hotels, restaurants, cafés and sights or cultural facilities when a public charging station is being selected. Customers are also given a forecast as to the occupation status of charging stations. In addition, BMW enables ChargeNow customers to reserve an enabled charging station for a limited period based on in-car activation.

A distinctive sound created especially for electrified BMW models is used for the purpose of acoustic pedestrian protection, emitted via a speaker system. The sound design in the low speed range radiates a vibrant acoustic presence, though without impairing the acoustic comfort of vehicle occupants.

Munich. Consistent further development of BMW eDrive technology once again ensures enhanced driving pleasure in the purely electrically powered models of the BMW i brand. With cell capacity increased to 120 ampere hours (Ah) and a gross energy content of 42.2 kilowatt hours (kWh), a new generation of high-voltage batteries enables the BMW i3 (120 Ah) (combined power consumption: 13.1 kWh/100 km; combined CO₂ emissions: 0 g/km)* and the BMW i3s (120 Ah) (combined power consumption: 14.6 – 14.0 kWh/100 km; combined CO₂ emissions: 0 g/km)* to achieve a significantly further enhanced range as of November 2018. In everyday use, the two models are now able to cover a distance of 260 kilometres*** – an increase of almost 30 per cent.

In this way, BMW i is consolidating its position as an innovation leader and trendsetter in the field of pioneering electromobility with hallmark brand driving pleasure and excellent everyday practicality. Since the market launch of the BMW i3, the storage capacity of its high-voltage battery has been doubled, thereby increasing the car's range as well. At the same time as the introduction of the new battery, a new body finish, a new colour for the optional interior design Loft and adaptive LED headlights with matrix function for the high beam are also available for the BMW i3 and BMW i3s. In future, a sports package will be available for the BMW i3 that includes black wheel arch surrounds and a sports suspension with specific dampers, springs and stabilisers, lowered suspension, a widened track and 20-inch light alloy wheels. The optimised guidance system in the tile design of the iDrive operating system is now available in conjunction with the optional navigation system Business. In future, the options telephony with wireless charging and wireless LAN hotspot will also be available for the BMW i3 and BMW i3s.

Ongoing progress in battery development: increased energy content while dimensions remain the same.

Like the electric motors and power electronics, the high-voltage batteries are an integral part of the BMW eDrive technology used in BMW i automobiles and developed independently by the BMW Group. Its lithium-ion cells are produced exclusively based on specifications defined by the BMW Group. Based on sound research and development work conducted in close cooperation with the manufacturer of the battery cells, consistent optimisation of the storage units is achieved in terms of power output, range, safety and durability. Installed deep in the floor of the vehicle, the high-voltage battery is produced at the BMW plant in Dingolfing and consists of eight modules, each with twelve storage cells: the latest advancements have resulted in a capacity of 120 Ah along with a gross energy content of 42.2 kWh – while the size remains unchanged. This is yet another major step towards increased range. For comparison: at the market launch of the BMW i3 in 2013, the equivalent figures were 60 Ah and 22.6 kWh, while the second-generation battery introduced in 2016 reaches a level of 94 Ah and 33 kWh.

In addition to vehicle weight and the installation space taken up by the high-voltage battery, driving performance and energy consumption likewise remain virtually unaltered by the increased range achieved by the latest advancements. The BMW i3, powered by a 125 kW/170 hp electric motor, accelerates in 7.3 seconds from zero to 100 km/h, while the BMW i3s with 135 kW/184 hp completes the standard sprint in 6.9 seconds. This means that the two models both set the benchmark for sporty performance within their vehicle segment. Thanks to spontaneous power delivery as is typical of electric motors, the BMW i3 and BMW i3s even reach the level of sports cars that have a considerably more powerful combustion engine: here the figures are 5.1 and 4.3 seconds respectively for the sprint from 80 to 120 km/h.

The combined power consumption of the BMW i3 (120 Ah) is 13.1 kWh per 100 kilometres*, while the BMW i3s (120 Ah) has a power consumption of 14.6 kWh to 14.0 kWh per 100 kilometres*. The high efficiency of the electric motor and the enhanced battery capacity result in a range that is nearly 30 per cent higher than that of the predecessor models. The range of the BMW i3 (120 Ah) is 359 kilometres* (previously 290 to 300 km) according to NEDC, and 285 to 310 kilometres** (previously 235 – 255 km) according to WLTP. For the BMW i3s (120 Ah), a range of 330 to 345 kilometres* (previously 280 km) has been calculated according to NEDC, and a range of 270 to 285 kilometres** (previously 235 –245 km) according to WLTP. In everyday conditions, both models now achieve a range of 260 kilometres*** (previously 200 km).

The high-quality charging electronics of the BMW i3 and BMW i3s allows fast and flexible refreshment of the energy reserves. The standard charging cable is designed to be plugged into a conventional household socket. Here the battery can be charged to up to 80 per cent of its full power in approximately 15 hours with a charging capacity of 2.4 kW. Connection to the BMW i Wallbox enables rapid three-phase charging with a capacity of 11 kW. Here the time required to achieve an 80 per cent charge of the large-capacity high-voltage battery is 3.2 hours. The power electronics and high-voltage battery in the BMW i3 and BMW i3s can also be used in conjunction with quick-charging stations that run on DC power. Here the charging capacity is 50 kW and the high-voltage battery reaches 80 per cent of its total power in just 42 minutes.

With its battery capacity increased to 42.2 kWh, the latest version of the BMW i3 also follows the brand's holistic concept, applicable since market launch and geared towards responsible use of resources: this includes not just locally emissions-free power but also material selection and production techniques as well as mobility services. The BMW i3 (120 Ah) and the BMW i3s (120 Ah) have a much more favourable CO₂ footprint across the entire vehicle lifecycle – from raw material extraction and manufacture through to use and recycling – and this makes for significantly lower global warming potential than is the case with comparable, conventionally powered automobiles.

Sports package as a new option for the BMW i3.

In future, the new sports package will enable additional emphasis of brand-based driving pleasure derived from locally emissions-free mobility in the BMW i3. The key element of the new option is the sports suspension, which is a standard feature in the BMW i3s and includes specific dampers, springs and stabilisers, a suspension lowered by 10 millimetres, a widened track and 20-inch light alloy wheels in Jet Black or Bicolor finish with mixed tyres. This increase in driving dynamics is visually underscored by means of black wheel arch surrounds, which also form part of the BMW i sports package.

New body finishes, adaptive LED headlights, optimised controls and connectivity.

Since 2014 the BMW i3 has been the world's best-selling electrically powered vehicle in the premium compact segment. On the streets of urban conurbations it has come to stand as a symbol of pioneering mobility. Its characteristic shaping is closely linked to the LifeDrive vehicle architecture, which combines an aluminium chassis with a passenger cell made carbon fibre reinforced plastic (CFRP). With the introduction of the new battery generation, the design of the BMW i3 and the BMW i3s has been enriched with fresh accentuations. The choice of body finish for the two models has been extended to include the new variant Jucaro Beige metallic with accentuations in Frozen Grey. Meanwhile the exterior paint finishes Mineral Grey metallic, Imperial Blue metallic, Melbourne Red metallic, Capparis White and Fluid Black are still available. To match the new body finish, the optional interior design Loft now includes upholstery in the fabric/Sensatec combination "Electronic" – in Carum Grey with accentuations in brown and interior surfaces in Electronic Brown.

As an alternative to the standard LED headlights, adaptive LED headlights are now available with an automatic, selective dip function for the high beam. The innovative matrix technology for the high beam increases visibility range while at the same avoiding any dazzle effect on other road users. For this purpose it is divided into four horizontally arranged segments which can be activated and deactivated independently of each other at speeds of over 70 km/h. The high beam segments are controlled based on the traffic situation. As soon as the front camera registers an oncoming vehicle or a vehicle travelling ahead in the same direction, the space in which this vehicle is located is illuminated using the low beam only. This is effected by deactivation of the matrix high beam segments that are responsible for this area. The remaining areas of the road continue to be illuminated by the high beam. Adaptive LED headlight functions also include the cornering light and the high beam assistant.

The optimised menu display for the iDrive operating system with buttons in tile structure and in live mode is now also available in conjunction with the optional navigation system Business. This means that the desired content is now available even more quickly and conveniently. What is more, the program of optional equipment items now also includes the option of telephony with wireless charging, which allows compatible mobile phones to be recharged without use of a cable. The wireless LAN hotspot, likewise newly available for the BMW i3 and the BMW i3s, provides a fast online connection for up to ten end devices inside the vehicle.

Munich. BMW continues to consistently pursue the improvement of emissions in all combustion engines in summer 2018. As of July 2018, all petrol and plug-in hybrid models of the brand available in Germany will be fitted as standard with a petrol engine particulate filter and thus will already comply with the exhaust standard Euro 6d-TEMP. BluePerformance Technology including SCR catalytic converter with AdBlue injection has been a standard feature of all BMW diesel models since March 2018. This means they all offer highly efficient, multi-stage exhaust gas treatment consisting of NOx storage catalytic converter and SCR system (Selective Catalytic Reduction). Due to the particularly effective reduction of particulate emissions achieved, these comply with what will then be the most rigorous exhaust standard, namely Euro 6d-TEMP. In addition, another 39 diesel models will be going on the market with Euro 6d-TEMP rating.

Additional model variants of the BMW X3 and the BMW X4 will be available from August 2018 onwards. As early as July 2018 there will be an increase in the number of models in the BMW 1 Series, BMW 3 Series, BMW 4 Series and BMW 5 Series which are fitted as standard with an 8-speed Steptronic transmission. Another newcomer to the model range is the BMW 1 Series Edition Metropolitan.

For the BMW 530e iPerformance Sedan (combined fuel consumption: 2.1 – 1.9 l/100 km; combined power consumption: 14.113.1 l/100 km*; combined CO2 emissions: 49 – 44 g/km), the optional equipment item BMW Wireless Charging will be available ex works from July 2018. The option BMW Connected eDrive Services available for the BMW i and BMW iPerformance automobiles will also include the BMW Digital Charging Service in future. What is more, an aerodynamics package is available for the BMW i8 Roadster (combined fuel consumption: 2.0 l/100 km; combined power consumption 14.5 kWh/100 km; combined CO2 emissions 46 g/km).

BMW X3 and BMW X4: new model variations with in-line 6-cylinder engines.

With the premiere of the BMW X3 M40d (combined fuel consumption: 6.5 – 6.4 l/100 km; combined CO2emissions 172 – 169 g/km*), the number of engines available to choose from for the Sports Activity Vehicle in the premium mid-range segment increases to seven. What is more, this newcomer is now the second BMW M Performance model in the series. In the BMW X3 M40d, an in-line 6-cylinder diesel engine generates a peak output of 240 kW/326 hp and a maximum torque of 680 N m already available at 1 750 rpm thanks to multi-stage turbocharging and common rail direct injection with piezo injectors, accelerating the car from zero to 100 km/h in 4.9 seconds.

A second in-line 6-cylinder diesel engine will be offered for the Sports Activity Coupé as of August 2018. The power unit in the new BMW X4 xDrive30d (combined fuel consumption: 6.0 – 5.8 l/100 km; combined CO2 emissions 158 – 153 g/km*) generates a peak output of 195 kW/265 hp and a maximum torque of 620 Nm. It takes the car just 5.8 seconds to accelerate from standing to 100 km/h. All new model variants of the BMW X3 and the BMW X4 are fitted as standard with an 8-speed Steptronic sports transmission.

8-speed Steptronic transmission as standard in additional models.

Fast gearshifts, a high level of shift comfort and excellent efficiency are the benefits of the 8-speed Steptronic transmission, now to become a standard feature of numerous additional BMW models as of July 2018. In the premium compact segment, the BMW 120i 3 door and the BMW 120 i 5 door (combined fuel consumption: 6.1 – 5.9 l/100 km; combined CO2 emissions 139 – 134 g/km) will also feature automatic gear selection as standard in future. Meanwhile the further enhanced shift dynamics of the 8-speed Steptronic sports transmission can be experienced as standard in the BMW M140i 3 door and the BMW M140i 5 door (combined fuel consumption: 7.4 – 7.4 l/100 km; combined CO2 emissions 169 – 168 g/km).

In the BMW 3 Series, eight additional models will be fitted with the 8-speed Steptronic transmission as standard from July 2018 onwards. These are the BMW 320i Gran Turismo (combined fuel consumption: 6.3 – 6.2 l/100 km; combined CO2 emissions 143 – 141 g/km) and the BMW 320i xDrive Sedan (combined fuel consumption: 6.5 – 6.4 l/100 km; combined CO2 emissions 148 – 146 g/km), the BMW 320i xDrive Touring (combined fuel consumption: 6.7 – 6.6 l/100 km; combined CO2 emissions 154 – 151 g/km) and the BMW 320i xDrive Gran Turismo (combined fuel consumption: 6.8 – 6.7 l/100 km; combined COCO2 emissions 156 – 152 g/km). The models BMW 330i Sedan (combined fuel consumption: 6.1 – 6.0 l/100 km; combined CO2 emissions 140 – 137 g/km) and BMW 330i Touring (combined fuel consumption: 6.3 l/100 km; combined CO2 emissions 145 g/km) and BMW 340i Sedan (combined fuel consumption: 7.4 l/100 km; combined CO2 emissions 168 g/km) and the BMW 340i xDrive Sedan (combined fuel consumption: 7.7 l/100 km; combined CO2 emissions 174 g/km) will also include an automatic transmission as a standard fitting in the future.

Six model variants of the BMW 4 Series will benefit from the new standard engine-transmission combination, too: the BMW 420i Convertible (combined fuel consumption: 6.4 – 6.2 l/100 km; combined CO2 emissions 146 – 143 g/km), the BMW 420i xDrive Gran Coupé (combined fuel consumption: 6.6 – 6.5 l/100 km; combined CO2 emissions 151 – 148 g/km), the BMW 430i Convertible (combined fuel consumption: 6.5 – 6.3 l/100 km; combined CO2 emissions 148 – 144 g/km) and the BMW 430i Gran Coupé (combined fuel consumption: 6.1 – 6.0 l/100 km; combined CO2 emissions 140 – 137 g/km) and the BMW 440i Coupé (combined fuel consumption: 7.5 l/100 km; combined CO2 emissions 170 g/km) and the BMW 440i xDrive Coupé (combined fuel consumption: 7.7 l/100 km; combined CO2 emissions 174 g/km).

The range of models fitted as standard with the 8-speed Steptronic transmission in future is rounded off with the BMW 520d Sedan (combined fuel consumption: 4.6 – 4.5 l/100 km; combined CO2 emissions 121 – 117 g/km) and the BMW 520d Touring (combined fuel consumption: 4.9 – 4.7 l/100 km; combined CO2 emissions 128 – 123 g/km).

Well equipped for the city: BMW 1 Series Edition Metropolitan.

Urban mobility in a premium compact model takes on an extra touch of style in the BMW 1 Series Edition Metropolitan. The Edition model, available as a BMW 1 Series 3 door and a BMW 1 Series 5, has numerous equipment features that are specifically designed to enhance comfort and driving pleasure in urban traffic. These include the navigation system Business, Park Distance Control with sensors at the front and rear of the vehicle, rear view camera, parking assistant, road sign detection, Speed Limit Info, Comfort Access and an instrument cluster with extended features. The Edition model is available in conjunction with the Urban Line model and all engine variants with the exception of the BMW M140i.

New paint finishes and interior design features for the BMW 5 Series and the BMW 6er Gran Turismo.

The selection of paint finishes for the BMW 5 Series Sedan and the BMW 5 Series Touring will be extended in summer 2018 to include the variant Frozen Dark Silver metallic, whose silken matt surface creates a particularly expressive look. This body finish will also be offered for the high-performance sedan BMW M5 (combined fuel consumption: 10.5 l/100km; combined CO2 emissions: 241 g/100km, provisional values), for which it is also possible to select the variant Frozen Marina Bay Blue metallic – likewise a new option.

From July 2018, the optionally available electroplating applications for selected controls will make for an exclusive sheen in the interior of the BMW 5 Series Sedan, the BMW 5 Series Touring and the BMW 6 Series Gran Turismo. This high-quality surface refinement is applied to the steering wheel switches, the start/stop button, the volume control on the audio system, the air conditioning controls and the switch panels on the driver and front passenger doors.

BMW 7 Series: BMW Individual composition that can be combined with other exterior finishes.

The BMW Individual composition provides a highly exclusive ambience in the interior of the BMW 7 Series Sedan by means of exquisite materials and a subtly harmonised colour scheme. The option comprising BMW Individual full Merino fine-grain leather trim, BMW Individual interior trim finishers, a BMW Individual leather steering wheel and a BMW Individual roof liner can be combined with additional body finishes from July 2018 onwards. In future the selection will also include the variants Alpine White non-metallic, Sapphire Black metallic, Kashmir Silver metallic, Glacier Silver metallic, Imperial Blue Brilliant Effect metallic, Sophisto Grey Brilliant Effect metallic, Mineral White metallic, Jatoba metallic, Magellan Grey metallic, Arctic Grey Brilliant Effect metallic and Atlas Cedar metallic.

Aerodynamics package for the BMW i8 Roadster.

The plug-in hybrid drive of the BMW i8 Roadster (combined fuel consumption 2,0 l/100 km; combined electricity consumption 14,5 kWh/100 km; combined CO2 emissions 46 g/km) guarantees a particularly progressive combination of sporty dynamic performance and efficiency for open-top driving. The car's supreme driving properties can be further optimised by means of the new aerodynamics package. This is made up of a dual-section front splitter and a spoiler lip for the rear of the two-seater model.

Charging is simpler than fuelling: launch of BMW Wireless Charging.

The innovative option BMW Wireless Charging offers maximum comfort when charging the high-voltage battery of a plug-in hybrid model. BMW is the world's first automobile manufacturer to offer a system of inductive charging where a cable is no longer required to feed electric current into the vehicle's battery. From 2018, BMW Wireless Charging will be among the optional equipment items available for the BMW 530e iPerformance ex works: it comprises a "car pad" for the vehicle and an inductive charging station known as a "ground pad", which can be installed on the floor of a garage, for example.

The contactless transfer of energy is carried out via an electromagnetic field between the two components and can be initiated as soon as the vehicle has reached park position over the ground pad. This makes charging a high-voltage battery even easier than filling a fuel tank.

New for BMW i and BMW i Performance automobiles: BMW Connected eDrive Services with BMW Digital Charging Service.

In future, the option BMW Connected eDrive Services will cover all digital services that help optimise comfort, everyday practicality and efficiency in vehicles that are electrically powered. This new optional equipment feature will be available from July 2018 for the BMW i3 (combined fuel consumption: 0.0 l/100 km; combined power consumption 13.6 – 13.1 kWh/100 km; combined CO2 emissions 0 g/km) and the BMW i3s (combined fuel consumption: 0.0 l/100 km; combined power consumption: l/100 km; combined power consumption 14.3 kWh/100 km; combined CO2 emissions 0 g/km), the BMW i8 Coupé (combined fuel consumption: 1.8 l/100 km; combined power consumption 14.0 kWh/100 km; combined CO2 emissions 42 g/km) and the BMW i8 Roadster as well as for the BMW 225xe iPerformance (combined fuel consumption: 2.5 – 2.3 l/100 km; combined power consumption 13.7 – 13.4 kWh/100 km; combined CO2 emissions 57 – 52 g/km) and the BMW 530e iPerformance. It includes Remote Services, which allows the doors to be remotely locked and unlocked, and also eDrive Services complete with charging station search, as well as enabling the range and charge status to be displayed on a smartphone.

What is more, the BMW Digital Charging Service can be used in the first three years after the car has been newly registered. This enables intelligent charging with optimised cost efficiency and preferential use of self-generated solar power.

All model revision measures available from start of production in July resp. August 2018.

Consumption and Emission Data:

BMW 530e iPerformance Limousine: combined fuel consumption: 2,1 – 1,9 l/100 km; combined electricity consumption: 14,1 – 13,1 kWh/100 km; combined CO2 emissions: 49 – 44 g/km

BMW i8 Roadster: combined fuel consumption: 2,0 l/100 km; combined electricity consumption:14,5 kWh/100 km; combined CO2 emissions: 46 g/km

BMW X3 M40d: combined fuel consumption: 6,5 – 6,4 l/100 km; combined CO2 emissions: 172 – 169 g/km,provisional values

BMW X4 xDrive30d: combined fuel consumption: 6,0 – 5,8 l/100 km; combined CO2 emissions: 158 – 153 g/km, provisional values

BMW 120i 3-Türer und 5-Türer: combined fuel consumption: 6,1 – 5,9 l/100 km; combined CO2 emissions:139 – 134 g/km

BMW M140i 3-Türer und 5-Türer:combined fuel consumption: 7,4 – 7,4 l/100 km; combined CO2 emissions:169 – 168 g/km

BMW 320i Gran Turismo: combined fuel consumption: 6,3 – 6,2 l/100 km; combined CO2 emissions:143 – 141 g/km

BMW 320i xDrive Limousine: combined fuel consumption: 6,5 – 6,4 l/100 km; combined CO2 emissions148 – 146 g/km

BMW 320i xDrive Touring: combined fuel consumption: 6,7 – 6,6 l/100 km; combined CO2 emissions154 – 151 g/km

BMW 320i xDrive Gran Turismo: combined fuel consumption: 6,8 – 6,7 l/100 km; combined CO2 emissions156 – 152 g/km

BMW 330i Limousine: combined fuel consumption: 6,1 – 6,0 l/100 km; combined CO2 emissions140 – 137 g/km

BMW 330i Touring: combined fuel consumption: 6,3 l/100 km; combined CO2 emissions 145 g/km

BMW 340i Limousine: combined fuel consumption: 7,4 l/100 km; combined CO2 emissions 168 g/km

BMW 340i xDrive Limousine: combined fuel consumption: 7,7 l/100 km; combined CO2 emissions174 g/km

BMW 420i Cabrio: combined fuel consumption: 6,4 – 6,2 l/100 km; combined CO2 emissions146 – 143 g/km

BMW 420i xDrive Gran Coupé: combined fuel consumption: 6,6 – 6,5 l/100 km; combined CO2 emissions151 – 148 g/km

BMW 430i Cabrio: combined fuel consumption: 6,5 – 6,3 l/100 km; combined CO2 emissions148 – 144 g/km

BMW 430i Gran Coupé: combined fuel consumption: 6,1 – 6,0 l/100 km; combined CO2 emissions140 – 137 g/km

BMW 440i Coupé: combined fuel consumption: 7,5 l/100 km; combined CO2 emissions 170 g/km

BMW 440i xDrive Coupé: combined fuel consumption: 7,7 l/100 km; combined CO2 emissions 174 g/km

BMW 520d Limousine: combined fuel consumption: 4,6 – 4,5 l/100 km; combined CO2 emissions 121 – 117 g/km

BMW 520d Touring: combined fuel consumption: 4,9 – 4,7 l/100 km; combined CO2 emissions 128 – 123 g/km

BMW M5: combined fuel consumption: 10,5l/100 km; combined CO2 emissions 241 g/km, provisional values

BMW i3: combined fuel consumption: 0,0 l/100 km; combined electricity consumption: 13,6 – 13,1 kWh/100 km; combined CO2 emissions 0 g/km

BMW i3s: combined fuel consumption: 0,0 l/100 km; combined electricity consumption: 14,3 kWh/100 km; CO₂-combined CO2 emissions 0 g/km

BMW i8 Coupé: combined fuel consumption: 1,8 l/100 km; combined electricity consumption:14,0 kWh/100 km; combined CO2 emissions 42 g/km

BMW 225xe iPerformance: combined fuel consumption:2,5 – 2,3 l/100 km; combined electricity consumption:13,7 – 13,4 kWh/100 km;combined CO2 emissions 57 – 52 g/km

Munich. The BMW i3 sets standards worldwide for driving pleasure in a purely electrically-driven vehicle. Key factors here are not only the increased output of the motor in the new BMW i3s, but also the innovative traction control system adapted specifically to the instantaneous power deliver of the BMW eDrive system. Presented for the first time in the new BMW i3s (270 Nm at 0 rpm, 135 kW / 184 HP, power consumption combined in European NEFZ test-cycle*: 14.3 kWh/100 km; CO2 emissions combined: 0 g/km), the system improves traction and driving stability in adverse weather and road conditions when pulling away, in active Brake Energy Regeneration phases and when accelerating out of tight corners. At the heart of this innovation is the control system’s 50-times-faster routine, made possible because – unlike conventional driving stability systems – the control process is now calculated directly in the powertrain instead of in a remote unit requiring long signal paths. This development provides further evidence of BMW i as a pioneer of innovative technology within the BMW Group.

“With their high levels of torque and instantaneous responses to every movement of the accelerator, electric motors already make significantly higher demands on driving stability systems than conventional power units,” explains Peter Langen, Head of Chassis Development at BMW.

That’s why the BMW engineers developed a new type of system geared squarely to the demands of electric mobility.
The positive impact of these shorter control cycles is not reserved for purely electrically driven cars; indeed, this innovative traction control system also optimises traction, driving stability and driving dynamics in vehicles with combustion engines. It will therefore be fitted in BMW and MINI models with front-, rear- and all-wheel drive to deliver noticeably greater assurance and driving pleasure when road conditions make pulling away difficult.

About BMW i
BMW i is a BMW Group brand focusing on visionary vehicle concepts, connected mobility services and a new understanding of premium strongly defined by sustainability. BMW i is represented in 54 countries with the BMW i3 electric car for urban areas, BMW i8 plug-in hybrid sports car and plug-in hybrid BMW iPerformance Automobiles. 
BMW i opens up new target groups for the company and serves as an incubator for innovations. Technologies which have debuted successfully in BMW i cars are carried over to parent brand BMW’s other models.
BMW i is also associated with enterprises including DriveNow (car sharing), ReachNow (car sharing 2.0), ChargeNow (easy access to the world’s largest network of charging points), ParkNow (straightforward location, reservation and payment of parking spaces), venture capital company BMW i Ventures (investment in start-up companies with a focus on urban mobility), BMW Energy (energy optimisation services) and the Centre of Competence for Urban Mobility (consultancy for cities).

^* Further information on official fuel consumption figures, specific CO2 emission values and the electric power consumption of new passenger cars is included in the following guideline: “Leitfaden über Kraftstoffverbrauch, die CO2 emissions und den Stromverbrauch neuer Personenkraftwagen” (Guideline for fuel consumption, CO2 emissions and electric power consumption of new passenger cars), which can be obtained from all dealerships, from Deutsche Automobil Treuhand GmbH (DAT), Hellmuth-Hirth-Str. 1. 73760 Ostfildern-Scharnhausen and at http://www.dat.de/en/offers/publications/guideline-for-fuel-consumption.html. LeitfadenCO2 (GuidelineCO2) (PDF ‒ 2.7 MB)

In the event of enquiries please contact:

Wieland Brúch,
Media Relations Manager BMW i and Electric Mobility

Telephone: +49-89-382-72652

Email: wieland.bruch@bmwgroup.com

Paloma Brunckhorst
Media Relations Manager BMW i, BMW iPerformance

Telephone: +49-89-382-22322

Email: Paloma.Brunckhorst@bmwgroup.com

Internet: https://newsroom.bmwgroup.com/global/en

Attached please find the technical specifications of the new BMW i3 and the new BMW i3s, valid from 11/2017.