Spy photographers have snapped the BMW 3-Series EV on multiple occasions, but now it’s been revealed by Chinese authorities as the all-new i3. Sharing nothing in common with the electric hatchback, the 2022 BMW i3 is apparently based on the facelifted 3-Series Long Wheelbase. Besides new headlights that will presumably be shared with the standard model, the i3 features a fully enclosed grille with available blue accents.
Elsewhere, we can see a relatively sporty
fascia with sizable intakes. The model also has aerodynamic wheels and modified
front fenders that flow into more pronounced side skirts. Out back, there’s a
unique rear bumper and diffuser as well as i3 badging on the trunk.
The government listing for the i3 is light
on specifics, but notes the model has a “pure electric” powertrain and a top
speed of 180 km/h. The listing also says the sedan has an electric
motor that produces 335 hp. That’s the same output as the i4
eDrive40, which features a single rear-mounted electric motor. If the
similarities extend beyond the motor, the i3 could have an 83.9 kWh lithium-ion
battery pack. It enables the i4 eDrive40 to have a preliminary EPA-estimated
range of up to 483 km.
Little else is known about the model at
this point, but an unveiling shouldn’t be far off. If we were to guess, we
wouldn’t be surprised to see the i3 turn up at the Beijing Auto Show in April.
