Developed under the codename Megacity, the i3 made its debut as a futuristic concept at the 2011 Frankfurt Motor Show. It is the first vehicle to ride on automaker's new LifeDrive architecture, which enables it to offer a generous cabin size despite its small footprint.
Power for the i3 is provided by an electric motor driving the rear axle. The i3 boasts 170 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque which, when combined with the i3's superlight weight, results in a 0-60 run of under 8 seconds.
BMW failed to detail the i3's battery, but says the city car can "travel long distances on a single charge." To quell range anxiety, the battery-powered city car will be offered with an optional two-cylinder internal combustion range extender.
Given the i3's target market, innovative technology is a big part of its package, with the EV featuring a number of smartphone functions. Some of the car's technologies include the ability to find nearby charging stations, a smartphone app to precondition the vehicle at the touch of a button and even intelligence assistance systems to "ease the stress on drivers in monotonous city driving situations and allow them to arrive at their destination more safely and in a more relaxed state of mind."
Look for i3 production to begin in late 2013.
