The new BMW i3s incorporates a number of design elements that underscore its particularly dynamic character. For instance, both the front and rear aprons have model-specific, powerfully shaped contours; the front bumper inlay as well as the U-shaped surround encircling it have a black finish; the accent in the closed BMW kidney grille is painted in high-gloss black to give the grille a larger and more prominent appearance; and the roof line accent sports the same high-gloss black finish as the A-pillars.
The i3s comes equipped as standard with sports suspension that includes a 10-millimetre drop in ride height. The additional 40 millimetres of track width compared to the standard i3 is given added impact by the black wheel-arch borders. The new i3s is available with exclusive 20-inch light-alloy wheels in double-spoke design that are 20 millimetres wider than the previously available versions, and can be ordered in the Bicolour and Jet Black colour variants.
The i3s provides an even sportier interpretation of silent mobility with zero local emissions and features a high-performance 135kW/184bhp electric motor that generates peak torque of 270Nm.
Its updated drive system includes modified motor control and specific taper roller bearings, which have been utilised to further optimise power delivery and the performance curve at higher rpm.
What’s more, the i3s boasts sports suspension with specially developed springs, dampers and anti-roll bars. Drivers can also select Sport mode using the Driving Experience Control switch. This initiates more direct accelerator response and tighter steering characteristics to further accentuate the car’s sporting edge.
Just 6.9 seconds is enough to see the new BMW i3s burst past 100km/h on its way to a top speed of 160km/h.
Read about the i3 battery that powers an electric boat propulsion system called Deep Blue.
Check out another German electric hatchback, the Opel Ampera-e, which has a range of 400km.