Review BMW i3 Battery Upgrade from 60Ah to 154Ah - Full Replacement Process by MTG

[evlover]

Upgrading your BMW i3 from the original 60Ah battery to MTG's 154Ah (54kWh) battery pack can significantly enhance your vehicle's range and performance. Here's a comprehensive overview of the upgrade process and its benefits:

MTG 154Ah Battery Specifications​

Capacity: 154Ah
Energy: 54kWh
Estimated Range: Up to 400 km (depending on driving conditions)
Cell Type: CATL NCM lithium cells
Configuration: 96 cells (12s1p × 8 modules)
Voltage: 355V
Cycle Life: ≥2000 cycles
Operating Temperature: Charging: -20°C to 55°C; Discharging: -30°C to 55°C

Full Replacement Process​

1. Consultation: Verify your i3's compatibility (models from 2014–2019 are typically eligible).
2. Technical Coordination: MTG collaborates with local EV repair shops to plan the installation.
3. Shipping: The battery pack is shipped internationally, with MTG assisting in logistics.
4. Installation: The new battery modules are installed without altering the vehicle's original structure.
5. Delivery: Post-installation, the vehicle is tested and returned to the owner.

Cost and Warranty​

Price: Approximately $7,800 USD for the battery pack, plus shipping and installation costs.
Warranty: Typically, a 2-year or 100,000 km warranty is offered, though terms may vary based on location and usage.

Benefits of the Upgrade​

Extended Range: Increase from ~180 km (60Ah) to up to 400 km.
Enhanced Performance: Improved battery efficiency and longevity.
Cost-Effective: More affordable than purchasing a new EV.
Environmental Impact: Reduces waste by extending the life of existing vehicles.

 

[evlover]

My wife drives a 60Ah BMW i3, so I’ve had a front-row seat to what living with the smaller battery version is actually like.

We’ve always loved the car quiet, lightweight, perfect for the city but the range was constantly part of the mental background. Not in a dramatic way, just always there: checking charge levels, planning errands, thinking about cold weather.
After upgrading to a higher-capacity battery (154Ah / 54kWh), the biggest change wasn’t just the extended range on paper, but the overall driving experience. The car feels exactly the same, yet the subtle stress around distance simply disappears. You stop managing the car and just use it.
What really impressed me is how “OEM-like” everything still feels. No odd behavior, no strange side effects just the same agile i3 character, now without the limitations that defined the early 60Ah setup.
I think many people misunderstand what a BMW i3 battery upgrade represents. It’s not about performance or novelty. It’s a usability upgrade. The car transitions from a carefully planned urban EV into something that genuinely fits everyday life without constant thought.
From an ownership perspective, that’s easily one of the most meaningful upgrades you can make to an early i3.