BMW i3 EV: Electric Car Photo Gallery

On July 29, 2013, the production model of the innovative, zero-emissions BMW i3 was revealed to the media in London, New York, and Shanghai, and broadcast live on YouTube.

Photo: Megan Green

Previously referred to as the Megacity Vehicle, the BMW i3 is an entirely electric vehicle created specifically for urban driving. While some of the more imaginative design aspects of the original i3 concept revealed in 2011 have disappeared in the production vehicle, the innovative contruction and use of materials remains.

Photo: Megan Green

New York City Mayor Michael R. Bloomberg, a strong advocate of environmentally-conscious technology, as well as Jay Inslee, Governor of the State of Washington (center) joined BMW executives during the press conference. (Raw material for carbon fiber will be produced in Moses Lake in Washington state.)

Photo: Megan Green

Driving the i3 is controlled by using only one pedal, acceleration and braking dependent upon the pressure applied or, when braking, pressure taken away. Maximum speed is around 93 mph. Cognizant of the fact that public transportation may be a better option in urban environments, use of mass transit is factored into the trip planning in the navigation system. In turn, the i3 navigation system can be accessed remotely from the owner's smart phone. 

Photo: Megan Green

The aluminum chassis is a strong foundation for the CFRP body, which absorbs energy, e.g. from an impact, efficiently. The vehicle body has maintained integrity in crash tests at 40 mph.

Photo: Megan Green

Eucalyptus wood panel accents the dash. A quarter of the plastic used in the interior are recycled materials, and the leather is treated naturally.

Photo: Megan Green

The plastic in the door panel is reinforced with kenaf, a jute fiber, and with this option, leather and wool fabric.

Photo: Megan Green

Using a household electric source, it takes around eight hours to charge the batteries to 80% capacity. Charging stations speed up the charging process significantly, and BMW is looking to incorporate charging station installation on delivery into the price of a premium package via BMW Financial Services. 

Photo: Megan Green

While the i3 will be available in six different color choices - two matte and four metallic -  the hood, roof and rear end will always be black. The back door latch is easily accessible with the front door open, and is hinged at the back for coach doors.

Photo: Megan Green

The strength of carbon fiber reinforced polymer (CFRP) eradicated the need for the B pillar, allowing for remarkably easy access to both front and back seats. Also, since the lithium-ion batteries are housed between the axels underneath the passengers, there is no hump down the middle of the car. Encased in aluminum for safety, the central location of the battery packs contributes to the 50/50 weight distribution.

Photo: Megan Green

The i3 sub-brand retains BMW badging and a few design cues such as the kidney grille. Tall but skinny tires add to efficient aerodynamics.

Photo: Megan Green

As there is no need for air intake to cool a combustion engine, the signature grille is simply opaque with no slats.

Photo: Megan Green

Use of CFRP has added bonuses - no rust to limit the life of the vehicle and no pesky dings.

Photo: Megan Green

Detail of tail light and badge: instead of being on the exterior of the car, the rear U-shaped LED tail lights shine through the glass for a smooth, practically seamless design.

Photo: Megan Green

Using light, strong CFRP for the body offsets the weight of the lithium ion batteries, keeping the vehicle within the weight range of standard steel-and-combustion-engine cars.

Photo: Megan Green

Mindful of the many hazards of driving in a metropolis teeming with cars, bicycles and pedestrians, designers incorporated a lot of glass for better all-around visibility. 

Photo: Megan Green 

The headlamps feature U-shaped LEDs, and sweep back into the design flow.

Photo: Megan Green

With an 80 to 100 mile range, the i3 is aptly suited for most commutes and other daily usage. A range-extender will also be available for the i3. If this is still not enough for longer driving stints, BMW also offers the temporary use of another BMW vehicle, and will also make the DriveNow car sharing service accessible to i3 owners.

Photo: Megan Green

Tapered to the back for better aerodynamics, this reducing drag, the body lines contribute to a distinctive look as well as better visibility as they sweep back towards the C-pillar.

Photo: Megan Green

The i3 will be offered in three trim levels: the "Mega" base model with a gray and cloth interior; the i3 "Giga" has a leather and cloth combination; i3 "Tera" has a full leather interior. Pricing for North America has not yet been officially confirmed.

Photo: Megan Green