BMW i3 Electric Driving-Range To Jump By Up To 50 Percent

BMW’s i3 electric car is set to get a new lithium-ion battery pack, and with it, a significant boost to its maximum driving range.

Currently, the i3 is rated at 160km in all-electric mode, with the range-extended model able to travel nearly twice that distance thanks to its twin-cylinder petrol engine, which acts as a generator.

Industry paper Automotive News reports that the battery upgrade will see a new maximum range of around 320km using electric power only. BMW's Ian Robertson did not confirm the new range, but did say that it would make the i3 "much more usable".

The upgraded i3 could debut sometime next year; a maximum range of 300km or more would certainly add to its appeal for buyers.

Although competing outside the ‘premium’ segment, Nissan’s Leaf in updated form can now travel as far as 250km on a charge, while the new Chevrolet Bolt is good for around 320km, matching the reported improvements for the i3.

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