German luxury carmaker BMW is slated to launch a revamped version of the BMW i3 in 2017, reports say. The updated model will sport practical and cosmetic improvements.
According to Welt am Sonntag, the new BMW i3 will have a noticeable improvement on its battery that extends the range of the car beyond its recently enhance 186-mile cap. Although sources hadn't specified how much further one will be able to drive, it is likely enough to cover an extra commute.
The remodeled BMW i3 will also come with a refurbished front and rear, beyond the current i3's design. The company is said to push a redesign for the current model, aiming for a much slicker look, the likes of the upcoming Tesla Model 3, reports Engadget. The move is supposed to attract more buyers for the i3.
Tesla Motors VS BMW i3
Tesla Motors' Model S with its P100D battery offers more than 300 miles on a single charge. The cost difference can be easily noticed, with the BMW i3 with Range Extender at $47,450, of which doesn't include handling and destination charges. On the other hand, the rear wheel-drive version of Model S equipped with a 60 kWh battery roughly costs $68,000 without add-ons.
BMW i3: The Car Of The Future
The German newspaper spoke with BMW's development division rep Klaus Fröhlich about the company's plans regarding its autonomous driving vehicles, including the BMW i3. Fröhlich said that BMW wants to establish a common standard in self-driving vehicles in the industry. He added that the same of systems and sensors were used in their vehicles.
The improvements on the BMW i3 are a welcome change for the tiny car, given the company sold only about 25,000 units in 2015. BMW might be facing a tough competition against Chevy and Tesla, as both carmakers also have promising upgrades. To Fröhlich however, the upgrade doesn't mean it's the last for the company. Rather, BMW wouldn't want to fall short of its rivals.
