Battery boost for BMW i3 range 24 | 11 | 2015
BMW IS TO boost the range of its electric-powered i3 by introducing updated technology which draws on battery efficiency gains developed since its launch in 2013.
The new battery pack will be fitted to both the the all-electric i3 and the i3 Range Extender: the latter uses a small two-cylinder petrol engine to produce electricity on the run.
The updated i3 will be fitted with a new lithium ion battery with the same 22kWh (18.7kWh usable) capacity as that used today, but significantly it will boast a higher power density for a longer range.
It's understood the new technology — which will also be available as a retro-fit option for existing i3s — will increase the i3's current all-electric range from just under 100 miles, to in excess of 124 miles.
New software mapping for the battery cooling system and the electric motor will also be fitted as part of the i3's upgraded electronics package.
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Jim McGill