Customer Reactions From The First US BMW i3 Test Rides

The i3 used for ride-alongs at the San Diego National Plug in Day event. Photos courtesy Chris Llana

This weekend there were over about 100 National Plug In Day events held around the US. I was at the North Jersey event held at the Liberty Science Center in Jersey City, New Jersey. I was there with my new ActiveE and we had a total of about 25 electric vehicles in attendance. By all means it was a great day and we helped spread the word about how great plug in cars really are. However across the country at the San Diego Plug in Day event something special was happening. BMW had an i3 there, and for the first time in the US they were taking customers on test rides.

No one was allowed to actually drive the car, as it is a pre-production i3 and only BMW employees are allowed to actually drive it, but the driver was definitely giving the passengers a taste of what the i3 is capable of. He wasn't just rolling around a parking lot at 15 mph like many EV ride-alongs do, they went for a real drive on the streets and the driver was punching the accelerator to show off the power as well as the cars grip on the road. Since I wasn't there, I reached out to three people, Peder Norby, Grant Kluzak and Chris Llana, that were there and had the opportunity to go for a test drive to get their impressions.  

Peder and Grant are very experienced electric vehicle drivers. Chris doesn't yet own an electric car, but has been closely following the electric vehicles currently on the market and intends to buy one soon.

First up is Grant Kluzak. Grant drives a Toyota RAV4 EV and his wife Kristine drives an ActiveE and here's what he had to say:

"At the San Diego National Plug-in day event I had the opportunity to ride as a passenger in a pre-production model of the BMW i3. Since my wife is the primary driver of our BMW Active E, I am somewhat of a professional passenger in an electric BMW. I had a slight hang-up on the overall look of the i3, however after the ride, I now think the look fits the vehicles behavior. It's not an SUV and it’s not a traditional BMW sports car. It is truly a cross-over. You do not feel as low to the ground, or sporty as you do in the Active E. 

It appears to handle nearly as well as an Active E, possibly even accelerating faster. One truly amazing feature is the incredibly tight turning radius which will be very handy in tight parking lots or small city streets. The driver told us that the regenerative braking feel is nearly the same as the Active E and that he finds himself one pedal driving most of the time. I’m excited about this because I drive a Toyota RAV4 EV and find the regenerative braking is too light compared to the Active E. The interior cabin was comfortable and supportive as we would expect from BMW. There is an interior finish on parts of the dash and doors that looks and feels like felt. We were told that it is made from recycled carbon fibers. I really liked the look of this new material and was glad to hear it is made from recycled material. 

Riding in the back seat behind the driver was comfortable for me a six foot two large man. That is not something I can say about the Active E and the i3 was much easier to get into with it’s “suicide” doors in back. There are plenty of cup holders, two in the back and one fixed and one movable between four different locations up front. The BMW engineer I talked too found it amazing that Americans were so fixated on the cup holders in our cars. Apparently there was much debate between the US and Germany on the number and location of the cup holders. I think they got it right with one per passenger. Yes, it’s a four seat vehicle. Having loosely followed the development of the i3, I was under-impressed with the slight glimpses we saw of the vehicle along the way. I did not think it would be a good follow on to the Active E. Having now ridden in an i3 and getting to see and feel the ride comfort, I can’t wait to get behind the wheel and test drive one. I think it has great potential as being the vehicle we will replace our Active E with."

Photo courtesy Peder Norby

Next it's Chris Llana. Chris has been a longtime follower and commenter on my blogs and he even helped me out with photo-shopping for my April Fools post here this year.

"I attended the National Plug In Day event in San Diego on Saturday.  There were about 110 privately-owned plug-in cars there, of all sorts, as well as more than a dozen plug-in cars available for drives and rides (the Model S and the BMW i3 were passenger rides only).  There were seven ActiveEs there (and almost 40 LEAFs).  

 I arrived early and headed right for the i3.  Not a lot of people there at that time, but lots of enthusiasm.  I ran into Peder Norby there; there were at least a couple of other ActiveE drivers inspecting the i3.  The car looked better in person than in photos, Tom, as you have mentioned before.  The interior, in particular, was much nicer than the photos let on.  The driver's position was very comfortable, with ample head and legroom for my more than 6'2" height; the steering wheel was very nice, and placed to perfection.  Visibility was great.   

  The back seat was the big surprise -- very usable by full-size adults, and the front seats did not have to be moved forward to give room for the backseaters' legs.  At one point, both Peder and I were in the back seat -- both of us commented about how comfortable it was, for short runs at least.  Peder is about as tall as me, and not a small man.  We pretty much filled all of the available space, with no extra headroom, but that means most adults will find the back seat more than adequate.  

  I was in the i3 for the first ride of the day (in the front passenger seat), along with two others in the back seat (including one ActiveE driver).  A BMW engineer was driving.  The drive was out on the streets surrounding the parking lot where the event was held -- city speeds, no highway travel.  The acceleration from a stop was impressive, even with four people in the car!  I can only imagine what it would be like with just the driver in the car (and 500 fewer pounds).  With the windows open, the car under hard acceleration sounded like a muted jet engine spooling up -- very cool sound!  The ActiveE driver in the back seat said it was quieter than the ActiveE, and after one spirited take-off, told the driver he had just sold a car!  All in all, I was very impressed!"

Lastly, it's Peder Norby weighing in and he's a real EV pro. Like me Peder has been BMW's e-mobility trial lease programs since 2009. Peder had a MINI-E and now has an ActiveE as well as a Honda Fit EV and has racked up nearly 70,000 all electric miles. Here's what Peder wrote on our i3 group's Facebook wall:

There was plenty of room for Peder and Shawn in the backseat

"I think Shawn is 6'2" and I am 6'3" We thought we would put the two biggest guys in the back. Warning do not try this in an ActiveE! I would never think of trying to shoehorn myself back there.

Lots of room in the i3 for a small car. With the drivers seat fully back there is 4 inches between the seat and the back seat as compared to the ActiveE where the seat touches the back seat. Width wise up front I would say larger than the Active E but not quite as wide a as a 3 series. The space in the rear of the seats is very good, with the seats folded down there is a lot of room. Similar or greater to the Honda Fit EV. The Fit EV is a touch wider but not as deep.

Sitting in the back was very comfortable and we had a 6'0" driver in his comfortable driving position in front of me. I was just fine and not cramped.

Test drive was great, MUCH faster than a Mini-E which is MUCH faster than an ActiveE, and it all comes from the rear so much better control. The driver punched from the lights and it was very impressive even more so than the Mini-E.

Best impressions are:

That the car looks much much better in person, It is very planted on the road at speeds just like the ActiveE and unlike the Honda Fit EV (I love the Fit EV but its a bit of a tinny dancer on the highways. The car for me seemed even quieter than the ActiveE. The interior on the test car was the highest class and it was indeed higher in quality than the ActiveE,

Insights, The rep said that if dealers are taking list it's not official from BMW but unique to the dealer. He also said that BMW will be reaching out to the Electronauts and that they will be in the first group to get the cars. The driver of the i3 said he has lots of seat time in both the i3 and the ActiveE. He described the range on the freeway of both cars as similar and range in the city of the i3 as superior to the ActiveE.

One very interesting conversational detail was that the braking distance in the i3 is among the best of the BMW cars including the M cars. They are validating the stopping distance currently but that it is going to be a big surprise to a lot of people. That bodes very well for performance and for safety

We made some circles in the parking lot and I have never been in car with that tight of a turning radius. The carbon fiber roof is awesome, many areas where you can see the carbon fiber such as the sills and when you open the rear hatch. BMW left a lot exposed and that is good. Love the rear lights.

Very Impressed." 

Peder also maintains a blog about his electric driving experiences and wrote a post on the i3 driving event. You can read the whole post here. So I'd say so far so good. The people at the event that had the chance to go for a ride all seem generally impressed. I suspect it won't be long before BMW gets a lot of production i3's delivered here to the States and opens up actual driving events, that will be the real test.

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Production BMW i8 Photographed Outdoors.

So far we have only see the BMW i8 at the Autoshow or in studio photos, JulianS has captured a few very high resolution of a BMW i8 Production Prototype outside in natural sunlight. 

Source

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BMW i5 Rendering

The BMW i3 and BMW i8 will be in production for Canadian allocation starting spring of 2014 with an expected launch in the summer. We know there has been rumors that there will be a sedan for the BMW i Brand possibility badged as the i5 or the i7. Lets imagine for a moment how the BMW i5 might look like in this in-house artist rendering.

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New BMW M3 Sedan, BMW M4 Coupe Official Specs.

The launch of the new BMW M3 Sedan and new BMW M4 Coupe sees BMW M GmbH revealing an all-new interpretation of the high-performance sports car – and carrying the BMW M philosophy over into the fifth generation of the M3. More than 40,000 examples of the fourth-generation BMW M3 Coupe were built, and now the BMW M4 Coupe is poised to continue this history of success. The “M4” badge is a reference to the model series that provides the basis for the new M model. And for the first time, the Coupe will be introduced at the same time as the four-door variant, which logic dictates will be christened the BMW M3.

“Four generations of the BMW M3 have blended motor sport genes and uncompromised everyday usability within an emotionally rich overall concept;” explains Dr Friedrich Nitschke, President BMW M GmbH. “The BMW M3 Sedan and BMW M4 Coupe represent an ongoing commitment to this philosophy. The engine is the heart of every M model, and the example fitted in the two new cars combines the virtues of a high-revving naturally aspirated unit with the strengths of turbocharger technology. An all-embracing lightweight design concept keeps the cars’ weight to just under 1,500 kilograms. The BMW M3 and BMW M4 take motor sport technology from the track to the road, and thousands of laps of the legendary Nürburgring Nordschleife – the world’s most demanding race track – have readied the new models for that transition. Meticulous and passion-fuelled development work has underpinned the creation of two high-performance sports cars that set new standards in terms of overall concept, precision and agility.”
The high-revving six-cylinder in-line engine with BMW M TwinPower Turbo technology newly developed for the new BMW M3 Sedan and BMW M4 Coupe produces maximum output of approximately 430 hp. Its peak torque soars far beyond 500 Newton metres (369 lb-ft), outstripping the figures recorded by the outgoing BMW M3 by well over 30 per cent. And yet the engine also achieves a reduction in fuel consumption and emissions of around 25 per cent. The weight of the cars has been reduced to just under 1,500 kilograms, which helps to ensure outstanding driving dynamics and exceptional efficiency.

2. The balance of the overall concept:

A blend of elements working in perfect harmony delivers outstanding performance, precision and agility.
The new BMW M3 Sedan and new BMW M4 Coupe share a low-slung and broad-set, yet finely balanced, stance on the road, highlighting the emphasis on performance capability in the emotional development of M design. Large air intakes at the front end, exposed carbon-fibre-reinforced plastic (CFRP) components and the diffuser at the muscular rear end are far from mere design flourishes; they also fulfil functional roles in terms of aerodynamics, cooling and weight saving.
Numerous aerodynamics measures integrated into all areas of the body.
The aerodynamics concept of BMW M GmbH models has always been one of the key elements in their development. The engineers need to channel the air around the car to create the best possible platform for dynamic excellence, while also ensuring the engine, powertrain and brakes receive the requisite cooling given the significant loads they are operating under. But at the same time, the cars should also have a good Cd – an indicator of impressive efficiency at higher speeds, in particular.
Details such as the powerfully formed front apron, smooth underbody and clearly defined Gurney spoiler lip at the rear of the M3 Sedan (or integrated spoiler lip at the rear of the BMW M4 Coupe) reduce lift by an equal degree at the front and rear axle and produce optimum handling attributes. These examples underline in familiar fashion the success of M engineers in reconciling the requirements of everyday use with the demands of action on the race track. Elements like the Air Curtain and M gills with integrated Air Breather rearwards of the front wheels minimise turbulence in the front wheel arches. And, together with the smoothly sculpted exterior mirrors, they are also highly distinctive design features of the BMW M3 Sedan and BMW M4 Coupe.
Sophisticated cooling concept for maximum performance.
The exceptional performance potential of the BMW M3 Sedan and BMW M4 Coupe places extremely exacting demands on temperature management in the engine and peripheral assemblies. In order to ensure optimum operating temperatures in everyday use, on short journeys around town and on the race track, the BMW M GmbH engineers have developed an extremely effective cooling system. For example, alongside the two ultra-dynamic turbocharger units, the air intake system of the six-cylinder engine also includes an indirect intercooler to cool the intake air, maximising charge pressure and engine output. As well as a main radiator, the track-ready cooling concept also comprises additional radiators for the high- and low-temperature water circuits, turbocharger and transmission oil. These ensure a consistent temperature balance and therefore unrestricted performance during hard driving. An additional electric coolant pump cools the turbocharger bearing mounts when the car is stationary.    

The powertrain gains from a wide variety of motor sport technologies.

The many years of experience in motor sport clocked up by the BMW M engineers also make their presence felt in the construction of the powertrain for the new BMW M3 Sedan and BMW M4 Coupe. For example, the engine’s impressive torque is sent on its way by a forged crankshaft with high torsional rigidity, whose low weight also allows a significant reduction in rotating mass. The crankshaft therefore helps to optimise the engine’s responsiveness and acceleration and makes an important contribution to its high-revving character.

The engine sends its power to the wheels through a six-speed manual gearbox as standard. This gearbox is significantly more compact than its predecessor and 12 kilograms lighter, allowing it to assist the car’s optimum – virtually 50:50 – weight distribution. As a means of increasing shift comfort, the manual gearbox uses innovative new carbon friction linings in its synchroniser rings. Dry sump lubrication provides an efficient supply of oil to all parts of the gearbox. The new gearbox also works a lot more quietly than before and blips the throttle on downshifts – previously a feature reserved for the M Double Clutch Transmission. This engagement speed control function helps to enhance stability and was originally developed by motor sport engineers.

Seven-speed M Double Clutch Transmission with Launch Control.

The optional seven-speed M Double Clutch Transmission with DriveLogic takes a very special route to combining the apparently conflicting values of absolute sports performance and comfort. As well as changing gear automatically, in manual mode the transmission enables ultra-fast gear changes with no interruption in the flow of power. The integrated Launch Control function ensures optimum sprinting performance off the line, producing acceleration figures that would be out of range with the manual gearbox. The M Double Clutch Transmission also offers drivers extra functions, such as selectable modes which make the BMW M3 and BMW M4 more comfortable, easier on fuel or even sportier. The extra gear over the manual gearbox allows more tightly spaced ratios – and delivers the positive effects on performance and efficiency you would expect as a result.

The material properties of carbon have allowed the engineers to follow a fundamentally new approach in the manufacture of the drive shaft. This component feeds the engine’s torque from the gearbox to the rear differential and works under extremely heavy loads – especially in high-performance vehicles. The impressive stiffness and low weight of CFRP as a material allow the drive shaft to be constructed as a single-piece unit with no centre bearing. As well as a weight saving of 40 per cent over its predecessor, this leads to a reduction in rotating masses and, in turn, to sharper responses to movements of the accelerator, combined with enhanced dynamics.

Another feature that adds fresh polish to the dynamic repertoire of the BMW M3 Sedan and BMW M4 Coupe is the Active M Differential. Unlike the manual system used by the outgoing BMW M3, here an electric actuator constantly varies the locking effect, as required. That enables better traction, the adjustability of the car is improved, and understeer coming out of corners is dialled out to impressive effect. M Dynamic Mode – a subfunction of the Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) system – quenches the thirst of enthusiastic drivers for keen dynamics. While DSC intervenes as required to counteract understeer and oversteer, M Dynamic Mode allows greater wheel slip and therefore easy drifting. Owners with a taste for sporty and dynamic driving will appreciate this breadth to the cars’ handling, although DSC will still step in if the car ventures over the limits – unless it is switched off completely. Whichever setting the driver chooses, he or she remains responsible for the car’s stability.

Aluminium suspension elements ensure sharper dynamics.

The core expertise of BMW M GmbH resides in creating cars that offer impressive steering precision, on-the-limit adjustability, agility and driving feeling, together with unbeatable traction and outstanding directional stability – all without neglecting everyday usability. In order to blend these attributes with the significantly increased performance capability of the new BMW M3 Sedan and new BMW M4 Coupe, the axles of the outgoing BMW M3 have undergone further development and all relevant components have been newly designed or constructed.

Here again, low weight and a high level of structural rigidity are essential ingredients in ensuring the cars provide an ultra-dynamic driving experience. In the double-joint spring strut front axle alone, the use of a lightweight aluminium construction for components such as control arms, wheel carriers and axle subframes saves five kilograms over a conventional steel design.

Play-free ball joints and elastomer bearings developed specially for the BMW M3 Sedan and BMW M4 Coupe ensure an optimum and direct transfer of forces both laterally and longitudinally. An aluminium stiffening plate, CFRP front strut brace and additional bolted joints between the axle subframe and the body sills all help to increase the rigidity of the front structure.

Also lighter than the construction in the outgoing BMW M3 is the new five- link rear axle. All the control arms and wheel carriers are manufactured using forged aluminium, which reduces the unsprung masses of the wheel-locating components by around three kilograms compared with the previous model generation. The rigid connection between the rear axle subframe and the body – without the use of elastic rubber elements – is borrowed from motor sport and serves to further improve wheel location and therefore directional stability.

The development of the tyres for the cars was incorporated from the outset into the construction process for the axles. For high-performance sports cars like the BMW M3 Sedan and BMW M4 Coupe, in particular, steering feel and precision are the foremost considerations in the development of tyres for the front axle, alongside lateral stability and braking forces. At the rear axle, meanwhile, traction, lateral stability and directional stability take centre stage. For this reason, both cars will leave the factory on low-weight forged wheels with mixed-size tyres. The specially developed forged wheels make a significant contribution to the reduction in the cars’ unsprung masses and, in turn, to the optimisation of dynamic qualities and efficiency.

Electric Power Steering with three settings.

The electromechanical steering system used in the BMW M3 Sedan and BMW M4 Coupe is a new development from BMW M GmbH. It has been tuned specially to assist the cause of dynamic driving and offers the gifts of direct steering feeling and precise feedback. The integrated Servotronic function electronically adjusts the level of steering assistance according to the car’s speed, providing optimum steering characteristics at all speeds. The steering for the BMW M3 Sedan and BMW M4 Coupe also offers the driver three steering characteristics as standard, which can be selected at the touch of a button. COMFORT, SPORT and SPORT+ modes allow the level of steering assistance to be adapted to suit the situation at hand and the driver’s personal tastes.

The optional Adaptive M suspension likewise comes with COMFORT, SPORT and SPORT+ modes, enabling the driver to choose between a more comfortable damper setting for motorway driving, for example, a stiffer set-up for dynamic driving on country roads, and a third option that minimises wheel movements and maximises dynamic performance for use on the track.

With their supreme dynamic attributes in mind, the BMW M3 Sedan and BMW M4 Coupe also come as standard with BMW M compound brakes boasting impressive feel, outstanding stopping power and high resistance to fade. Far lighter than conventional equivalents, these brakes contribute to a substantial reduction in unsprung masses and therefore help to enhance dynamic performance. Even lighter BMW M carbon ceramic brakes can also be specified as an option, their further optimised performance attributes equipping them even more effectively for track use.

3. New six-cylinder in-line engine:

High-revving, turbocharged engine combines the best of both worlds.
The new BMW M3 Sedan and new BMW M4 Coupe from BMW M GmbH see a return to a six-in-line engine configuration, as used on the second and third generations of this iconic sports car. The new turbocharged unit, which can develop more than 7,500 rpm, combines the best of both worlds – on the one hand a high-revving design for instant response, linear power delivery over a wide engine speed range and an unmistakable and characterful engine note, and on the other hand BMW TwinPower Turbo technology for maximised torque over a broad rpm range. A further hallmark of this engine is its outstanding efficiency.
The new engine sees a slight power upgrade over the previous V8 to approximately 430 hp, while peak torque has been increased by well over 30 per cent to substantially more than 500 Newton metres, and is maintained over a very wide rev band. The new powerplant also boasts excellent fuel consumption, with an improvement of more than 25 per cent over the previous model’s figures, while emissions are already EU6-compliant.
The BMW M TwinPower Turbo technology comprises two mono-scroll turbochargers, High Precision Direct Injection, VALVETRONIC variable valve timing and Double-VANOS seamlessly variable camshaft timing. The variable valve and camshaft timing provide fully variable control of intake valve lift. This allows the engine to deliver its power smoothly and efficiently, resulting in lower fuel consumption and emissions. At the same time, throttle response is even sharper than before.
The six-cylinder engine features a closed-deck crankcase design, which increases rigidity and allows cylinder pressures to be increased for maximised power output. And instead of liners, the cylinder bores feature a twin-wire arc-sprayed coating, which results in a significant reduction in engine weight.
A further technical highlight is the forged, torsionally rigid crankshaft which, as well as providing increased torque-carrying capacity, is also lighter in weight. Its reduced rotating masses also improve throttle response and acceleration.
Track-ready cooling system and engine oil supply for outstanding performance.
The exceptional performance of the BMW M3 Sedan and BMW M4 Coupe also demands an exceptionally sophisticated thermal management system for the engine and ancillary units. To ensure optimal operating temperatures both in short everyday trips around town and also when the vehicle is being driven flat out on the track, the M GmbH engineers developed a highly efficient cooling system, comprising a main radiator plus additional radiators for the high- and low-temperature circuits, turbocharger and transmission, while a temperature-stabilising electric water pump ensures that the engine can develop its full performance at all times.
The engine oil supply system, too, reflects the extensive motor sport experience of BMW M GmbH. The low-weight magnesium oil sump, for example, features a special cover to limit movement of the oil under the effects of strong dynamic lateral acceleration. Under extreme longitudinal acceleration and deceleration, an oil extraction pump and a sophisticated oil return system situated close to the turbocharger likewise help to maintain uninterrupted oil circulation. Oil is therefore supplied continuously to all engine components in all driving situations – whether in everyday motoring or during hard driving on the track.
An engine sound in keeping with the motor sport-level performance of the BMW M3 and BMW M4 is provided by an innovative flap arrangement in the twin-pipe exhaust system. The electrically controlled flaps just before the rear silencer minimise exhaust back-pressure and produce a BMW M sound which is striking and unmistakable over the entire engine speed range, as well as giving precise feedback on engine load.
Intelligent lightweight design was a top priority in the development of the BMW M3 and BMW M4. The goal was to minimise kerb weight in order to give both models outstanding driving dynamics and exemplary efficiency. These measures have delivered impressive results. The kerb weight of the BMW M4 has been reduced to less than 1,500 kilograms, which means the new model is now around 80 kilograms lighter than a comparably equipped predecessor model – with benefits for driving dynamics and fuel consumption as well.
BMW M3 Sedan also gets CFRP roof for first the time.
On the outgoing models, the CFRP roof was confined to the Coupe version. Now, for the first time, the four-door BMW M3 will also include this striking design and functional feature. The CFRP roof brings weight savings of five kilograms in the case of the BMW M3 Sedan and more than six in the case of the BMW M4 Coupe. It also lowers the vehicle’s centre of gravity, which has a positive impact on driving dynamics.
On the M4 Coupe, the contoured roofline with the central Gurney bubble continues into the boot lid, and emphasises the even sportier personality of the new model. The newly developed boot lid of this model not only provides extremely effective tail end styling but at the same time its geometry is precisely tailored for optimised aerodynamics, while the use of carbon fibre and plastics provides additional weight savings.
The new BMW M3 Sedan and new BMW M4 Coupe also feature a CFRP propeller shaft. CFRP’s high rigidity and low weight mean that the drive shaft can be produced as a single-piece component without a centre bearing. This provides 40 per cent weight savings over the previous model, and the reduction in rotating masses results in sharper throttle response. The use of carbon in these models is a reminder that BMW is a global leader in high- strength, lightweight CFRP construction, and that it was BMW who brought out the first mass-production vehicle with a body consisting entirely of this material – the innovative BMW i3.
The CFRP strut brace in the engine compartment is a further example of how all weight-saving measures on these vehicles have also been tailored to the improvement of driving dynamics. Weighing only 1.5 kilograms, the strut brace offers superior rigidity to a comparable aluminium component, and plays a key part in the excellent steering response and precision of both vehicles.

5. DTM support for the development process:

Testing at the Nürburgring with Bruno Spengler and Timo Glock.
In the development of the new BMW M3 Sedan and new BMW M4 Coupe, the BMW M engineers could count not only on track-honed technologies, but also on the driving talent of experienced racers. For example, BMW works drivers Bruno Spengler and Timo Glock took part in extensive testing and set- up runs on the Nürburgring-Nordschleife circuit, focusing on assessment of the cars’ suspension, tyres and all elements of the powertrain. After taking the prototypes for a run-out over the legendary and highly demanding circuit, the two professional racing drivers were able to give the BMW M development team some valuable feedback.
“I’m proud to have made a contribution to the set-up work on these two cars,” explained reigning DTM champion Spengler. “The development work may not be totally completed yet, but the driving experience is already sensational. The suspension has a very sporty set-up, the feedback from the front axle is extremely direct and the grip at the rear axle is phenomenal. The engine is impressive, too. The power is right there, even at low rpm, and you can sense that you’ll be able to access the output and torque over an extremely wide rev band. I’m looking forward to driving the cars again, but I’m even more excited about driving my first laps in a BMW M4 DTM.”
Timo Glock was similarly impressed: “These two cars are capable of generating quite incredible centrifugal forces,” reported the ex-Formula One driver. 

SPEC. SHEET

ENGINE

• Inline 6 cylinder engine with two mono-scroll turbochargers
  • Direct Injection
  • VALVETRONIC
  • Double-VANOS
  • closed-decked crankcase
  • twin-wire arc-spray coating (instead of liners) in cylinder bores reduce engine weight
• 430 HP (approximately)
• 369+ LB-FT (500 Nm)
• Higher than 7500 RPM redline

TURBOS

• Two mono-scroll turbochargers
• Impulse charging for optimized responsiveness
• Flow-enhanced manifolds
• Electric wastegate actuator

COOLING

• Double-flow oil recirculation pumps
• Turbocharger suction system
• Main radiator plus additional radiators for the high- and low-temperature circuits, turbocharger and transmission,
• Large indirect intercooler
• Low-weight magnesium oil sump
• Temperature-stabilizing electric water pump

WEIGHT

• Under 3,306 lb (1500kg) weight (no mention if this is curb weight and no specifics provided as to what equipment included/not included in figure)
  • compare to E46 M3 at ~3,400 lb curb weight
  • compare to E92 M3 at ~3,600 lb curb weight
  • compare to C63 AMG at ~3,900 lb curb weight
  • compare to RS5 at ~4,000 lb curb weight
• ~ 7.68 lb/hp power to weight
  • compare to E92 M3 at 8.7
  • compare to C63 AMG at 8.7
  • compare to RS5 at 9.0
  • compare to E46 M3 at 10.25
• Fuel consumption and emissions reduction of 25%

CARBON FIBER CONSTRUCTION

• CFRP drive shaft
  • 40% weight savings over previous M3
  • increased stiffness
  • reduced rotating mass for better acceleration and throttle response
• CFRP roof for both M3 and M4
  • saves 11 pounds (5kg) on M3
  • saves more than 13.2 pounds (6kg) on M4
• CFRP roof bow
• Carbon fiber trunk for M4 (11 pounds (5kg) weight savings)
• CFRP front strut brace standard (weighs just 3.3 pounds (1.5 kg))

TRANSMISSION

• Standard 6 speed manual transmission
  • automatic throttle blips on downshift
  • more compact and quieter than predecessor E90/E92 M3 6 speed
  • 26.4 pounds (12kg) lighter
  • carbon fiber friction linings in synchroniser rings
  • dry sump lubrication
• Optional 7 speed M DCT (double clutch transmission) with launch control
• Active M Differential (with constantly variable locking a la M5/M6)
• Forged crankshaft

STEERING

• Electric power steering specially tuned for M3/M4
• Servotronic function electronically adjusts the level of steering assistance
• Three modes: Comfort, Sport, Sport+

SUSPENSION / CHASSIS

• Optional Adaptive M suspension (with Comfort, Sport, Sport+ modes)
• CFRP front strut brace
• Double-joint spring strut front axle (saves 11 pounds)
• New five-link rear axle made from forged aluminum (saves 6.6 pounds)
• Aluminum suspension
• Aluminium stiffening plate
• Rear axle subframe fixed directly to body (bolted joints between the axle subframe and the body sills, without use of elastic rubber elements).

WHEELS / BRAKES

• Lightweight forged wheels standard
• Staggered tire sizes
• M compound brakes standard (in blue)
• M carbon ceramic brakes optional (in gold)

EXHAUST

• Exhaust features electrically controlled flaps just before rear silencer to minimize exhaust back-pressure as well as giving precise feedback on engine load.

AERO

• 50:50 weight distribution
• Air Curtain
• M gills with integrated Air Breather behind front wheels

MISC

• M3 and M4 to be introduced together (at Detroit NAIAS 2013 in January).
• M3 and M4 developed with help of BMW race car drivers Bruno Spengler and Timo Glock's participation in extensive testing and set- up runs on the Nürburgring-Nordschleife circuit, focusing on assessment of the cars’ suspension, tyres and all elements of the powertrain.

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BMW 4 Series is starting to roll in! Here we have a 2014 BMW 435i xDrive Coupe in Estoril blue (In Standard M-Sport Trim, 2014 428i Coupe gets Sport Line as standard trim) Keep in mind that the car is in transport mode so the ride height seems slightly higher. Overall it is a sensational car! We will have one in the showroom shortly. Check out for full gallery below.

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BMW i3 Production Video Series

BMW released a four part video series which shows in great detail the construction process of the i3. From carbon fiber manufacturing, to battery pack construction and full vehicle assembly on the production line at Leipzig. It's rare that a manufacturer allows such a detailed look at how they make a car. There's over an hour of combined video in the four part series below. If you are an i3 enthusiast, or even just a car person, this is definitely worth watching.

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BMW i3 Electric Motor Assembly Video

A friend of mine posted a video that shows the manufacturing process of the 168 horsepower, 184 lb-ft electric motor used in the i3. It's nearly nine minutes long and pretty comprehensive so I thought I'd put it up here. Hat tip to George Batek for finding and posting it on the Facebook group page!

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BMW i3 Production Begins!

Fitschen accepts the keys to Job 1 from BMW board member Harald Kruger

Series production of the BMW i3 began today in Leipzig. In less than two months the i3 will be available for sale in Germany and select European countries with US deliveries beginning 4 - 5 months later. BMW gave the keys to the first i3 to roll off the assembly line to German Marathon runner Jan Fitschen.

These are exciting times. The i3 is the first volume series production car in history to make such extensive use of carbon and aluminum and it's the first electric vehicle to be offered for sale by BMW company history. The better news is, this is just the beginning of the electric revolution!

 

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Serial Production of The i3 Begins Tomorrow

According to Automobilwoche a German car website, serial production of the BMW i3 will begin tomorrow, September 18th at BMW's Leipzig manufacturing plant. You can read (if you read German) or translate the article here.

The i3 is scheduled to go on sale in select European countries in November with the US launch set for Spring 2014. However, it's not clear if the range extender will be available as an option from the start. I have had people in Germany and the UK tell me when they placed their order the BMW i representative told them the range extender option will not be available until after the new year meaning they will have to wait a few more months if they want the REx. I have not heard any official confirmation of this, but I have no reason to doubt those that told me this. I have been told that the range extender will be available right from the start in the US though, and since we have to wait 4 or 5 months longer than Europe for the launch, that seems legitimate. 

The floor of the i3 assembly plant.

Carbon fiber i3 passenger cells are carried down the production line in Leipzig

 

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More i3 Video Love

There have been i3 videos popping up just about every day now. I posted a bunch of them a few days ago and when I find any of interest I'll post it here. This one by Automann TV spends a good amount of time inside the car so I thought it would be interesting to post. Make sure you change the settings to 720p or 1080p for the clearest look.

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i3 Range Extender Closer Look

If you look at the two pictures of the i3 chassis above, you can see the one on the left has a large empty space to the right of the electric motor with only a support brace in the empty void. In the picture on the right there isn't any spare room and it appears as if the entire unit there is one large piece of machinery, which of course it isn't. That's the i3's optional range extender and BMW certainly used every inch of space they had to squeeze it in there.

The engine used in scooter trim

When equipped with the range extender the i3 weighs 330lbs more, is slightly slower (because of the added weight) and has a lower all electric range since the rage extender comes on automatically once the state of charge reaches about 20%. The driver will have the ability to manually turn the range extender off so it doesn't come on at 20%, and many will likely do so as long as they can make their destination to recharge safely before they run out of charge. However many will be willing to accept these drawbacks because of the added utility the car when equipped with the range extender, as well as having the peace of mind knowing you'll never get stuck somewhere if you fail to calculate the cars electric range properly or need to drive further than expected.

The i3's range extender is a modified version of the 650cc Kymco engine used in the BMW C650 GT scooter. It's highly optimized for this particular use and puts out only 34 horsepower compared to 65hp when used for the scooter. It has a tiny 2.4 gallon gas tank which is positioned in the front of the car close to the filler door which is above the front right wheel. BMW claims the range extender will add up to 87 miles of range before needing to refuel but whenever a manufacturer says "up to" I've found you can easily discount that number by as much as 20% so without any proof  I'm guessing it will provide around 70 miles of additional range.

The range extender tailpipe is shown here. This picture was taken from the rear of the car and you can see how it won't be possible to see any tailpipe unless you bend over and look under the car.

The Frankfurt Motor Show just opened a few days ago and Horatiu Boeriu, the managing editor for BMWblog was there covering the event. I have been providing content for BMWblog for a few years now and Horatiu usually asks me to cover electric mobility topics on his site. I asked him to get a picture of the underside of an i3 because I haven't seen any good pictures of that yet. I tried to get one myself at the i3 premier but the lighting was so bad my picture wasn't clear enough to use. So Horatui got the picture I asked for and I was pleasantly surprised to see the car he picked had the range extender option on it and he got a great picture of how BMW managed to conceal the range extender tailpipe so it's not visible from the outside unless you crawl under the car like Horatiu did to take the picture. This is important because many electric vehicle owners have expressed how they are proud they don't have a tailpipe on their EV. They don't want to see a tailpipe on their car, even if it's a range extended EV that happens to need a tailpipe. This is the very first picture I have ever seen of the range extender exhaust, and may just be the first one ever published.

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