BMW’s first electric car – the i3 – will receive its first major update this Summer. By far and away, the largest criticism of the BMW i3 has been its range. Aside from its 80 mile or so range, the BMW i3 is a brilliant car and one that’s been pretty universally praised for its driving dynamics, spacious interior and funky design.

For 2017 models, the BMW i3 will now feature a higher-density 94 Ah battery, compared to the previous i3’s 60 Ah battery, that will provide the i3 a range of around 114 miles, with maybe ever more if all the A/C and heating systems are turned off and the car is in ECO Pro+ mode.

2017-BMW-i3-3

This new 94 Ah battery has a capacity of 33 kWh (kilowatt hours), thanks to a higher density of the lithium-ion cells. Of the overall 33 kWh, 27.2 kWh can be effectively used. This compares to the previous battery’s 22 kWh, of which only 19 kWh could efficiently be used.

Here are all the other updates to the 2017 BMW i3:

Standard Equipment now includes:

  • Deka World – Interior Design Loft.
  • No Cost DC Fast ChargeNow available for 2 years. For more information please visit www.chargenow.com.
  • Advanced Real Time Traffic Information.
  • Universal Garage Door Opener.
  • 19-inch wheels.
  • Comfort Access.

Optional Equipment now includes:

  • Moonroof.
  • Protonic Blue is now offered.
  • Dark Oak Wood Trim.

BMW i3 94 Ah Pricing (including $995 D&H but no state incentives or tax deductions):

BMW i3 94 Ah $44,595
BMW i3 94 Ah with Range Extender $48,445