BMW launches the i3 50xDrive: electric sedan with 560-mile range and the Neue Klasse promise

BMW presents the i3 50xDrive, an electric sedan with up to 560 miles (WLTP) of range and Neue Klasse technology, in addition to ultra-fast charging.

Neue Klasse's new bet: the i3 50xDrive arrives as a high-performance electric sedan

As the market takes a rapid dive into electric vehicles, BMW presents the i3 50xDrive, an electric sedan that draws from the completely new Neue Klasse architecture. With a footprint similar to the 3 Series, it emerges as the low-chassis version of the recently launched iX3, maintaining a focus on technology and efficiency.

Among its figures, the i3 offers a WLTP range of up to 900 km (560 miles) with a 100.8 kWh battery, in addition to fast charging capability of up to 400 kW on DC and 22 kW on AC. EPA range is estimated around 400 miles, following BMW's traditional figure behavior.

Performance and dynamics

• Dual motor: 345 kW (463 hp) and 645 Nm torque
• Expected acceleration: similar to the iX3 50xDrive, with the sedan being lighter and more aerodynamic, suggesting 0–60 mph times close to 4.7 seconds
• 800-volt architecture for charging efficiency and performance
• Asynchronous front motor (for torque and regeneration) and electrically excited synchronous rear motor
• Bi-directional capability: vehicle-to-load, vehicle-to-house, and vehicle-to-grid

The manufacturer highlights that the i3 will have different driving characteristics than the iX3, with suspension tuned to reduce body roll during corners, slightly narrower tires, and an adjusted chassis architecture for greater comfort.

Design, interior, and technology

The i3 inherits much of the iX3's interior, including a modern instrument cluster and a dual-screen setup for the driver. Highlights:

• 17.9-inch touchscreen and a 43-inch display band along the base of the windshield
• Compatibility with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto; optional head-up display
• Interior comfort: seats with the battery support underneath them and a cylindrical structure that slightly raises the roof, resulting in more space for those in the rear seat
• Ample dimensions: between 187.4 inches long, 73.4 wide, and 58.3 high; 114-inch wheelbase
• Version with sporty roof and steering wheel; M Sport rim option for those seeking a more aggressive look

BMW emphasizes that the i3 is positioned to offer a genuine electric alternative to traditional 3 Series customers, maintaining the balance between performance, comfort, and cutting-edge technology.

Factory and production strategy

Production of the i3 is scheduled to begin alongside the iX3 on the same line before migrating, starting in 2025, to a factory that will become exclusively electric. The goal is to maintain hybrid lines until certainty about EV adoption in Europe is found, a move BMW describes as a flexible approach to regulating production amid market uncertainties.

Conclusion

With the i3 50xDrive, BMW aims to serve customers in the mid-size sedan segment with a high-performance electric proposition featuring connectivity and fast charging capability, supported by the Neue Klasse architecture. We await confirmation of official performance figures and public reception in the coming months.

Did you like the proposals of the i3 50xDrive? Share in the comments: would you bet on this electric sedan to replace your combustion champion in the garage?