I Bought a Ten Year Old $3500 EV and I Increased its Range To Over 400 Miles!

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The BMW i3 is a compact electric vehicle that was first introduced in 2013 and remained in production until 2022. It was designed as a lightweight, urban-friendly EV with a unique carbon-fiber-reinforced plastic (CFRP) body structure. Here’s a full breakdown of its specifications and features:

BMW i3 (2014–2022) Full Specifications & Details​

Engine and Performance​

• Engine Type: Electric motor (BMW eDrive)
• Horsepower:
  • Standard i3: 168 hp (125 kW)
  • i3s (Sport Version): 181 hp (135 kW)
  • Range Extender version: 168 hp + 38 hp from a small gasoline engine
• Torque: 250 Nm (184 lb-ft)
• Acceleration (0-100 km/h / 0-62 mph):
  • 7.2 seconds (i3)
  • 6.9 seconds (i3s)
• Top Speed:
  • 150 km/h (93 mph) (i3)
  • 160 km/h (99 mph) (i3s)

Battery & Range​

• Battery Size:
  • 22 kWh (2014–2016 models)
  • 33 kWh (2017–2018 models)
  • 42 kWh (2019–2022 models)
• Range (EPA Rated):
  • 2014–2016: 130 km (81 miles)
  • 2017–2018: 183 km (114 miles)
  • 2019–2022: 246 km (153 miles)
  • With Range Extender (REx): ~320 km (200 miles)
• Custom Battery Upgrades: Some owners have modified their i3 with additional battery packs to exceed 400 miles (640 km) of range.

Charging​

• AC Charging: 7.4 kW onboard charger (~4 hours full charge)
• DC Fast Charging: CCS Combo (up to 50 kW, 80% charge in ~40 minutes)

Towing Capacity​

• Official BMW Rating: Not rated for towing
• Some owners report unofficial towing of up to 750 kg (1,650 lbs) with modifications.

Fuel Consumption (Range Extender Model)​

• Gasoline Tank Size (REx model): 9 liters (2.4 gallons)
• Fuel Economy (REx Model): 39 MPG city / 37 MPG highway (~6.0 L/100 km)

Annual Maintenance Cost​

• Electric-Only Model: ~$400–$600 per year
• Range Extender (REx) Model: ~$700–$1,000 per year (requires oil changes, spark plugs)

Insurance Prices​

• Varies by location & provider: ~$900–$1,500 per year

Tires & Wheels​

• Standard Tire Sizes:
  • 155/70 R19 (front), 175/60 R19 (rear)
  • Optional 20-inch wheels available
• Run-Flat Tires: No, BMW i3 does not have run-flat tires.

Luxury & Features​

• Luxury Category: Premium Compact EV
• Interior Materials: Recycled materials, sustainable wood trim, leather, and high-quality fabric options
• Infotainment System:
  • 10.25-inch touchscreen
  • Harman Kardon premium audio system (optional)
  • Navigation with real-time traffic updates
  • Apple CarPlay (added in later models)

Safety Features​

• Euro NCAP Safety Rating: 4 Stars
• Key Safety Features:
  • Adaptive Cruise Control
  • Collision Warning
  • Automatic Emergency Braking
  • Lane Departure Warning
  • Parking Sensors
  • Rearview Camera

Pros & Cons​

Pros:​

✔ Lightweight carbon-fiber-reinforced plastic (CFRP) structure
✔ Great handling and quick acceleration
✔ Unique futuristic design
✔ Minimal maintenance costs (EV version)
✔ Small footprint, ideal for city driving

Cons:​

✖ Limited range (early models)
✖ Small cargo space (260 liters / 9.2 cu ft)
✖ Rear-hinged "suicide" doors can be impractical
✖ Expensive battery replacements after warranty expires

Physical Dimensions​

• Length: 3,999 mm (157.4 in)
• Width: 1,775 mm (69.9 in)
• Height: 1,578 mm (62.1 in)
• Wheelbase: 2,570 mm (101.2 in)
• Ground Clearance: 140 mm (5.5 in)

Turning Circle Diameter​

• 9.86 meters (32.3 feet) – Excellent maneuverability.

Curb Weight​

• Electric Model: ~1,300 kg (2,870 lbs)
• Range Extender Model: ~1,450 kg (3,200 lbs)

Warranty​

• Battery Warranty: 8 years / 100,000 miles
• General Warranty: 4 years / 50,000 miles

Cold & Hot Weather Performance​

• Cold Weather:
  • Range can drop by 30–40% in freezing temperatures.
  • Preconditioning (heating battery before driving) helps maintain range.
• Hot Weather:
  • Slight range reduction due to AC usage (~10–15%).

Why is the i3 Better Than Other Cars?​

• Sustainable Design: Uses recycled materials and eco-friendly production.
• Lightweight Body: One of the only EVs with a carbon-fiber chassis, making it lighter and more efficient.
• Great for Cities: Small size, tight turning radius, and fast acceleration make it ideal for urban driving.

Mechanical Reliability & Defects​

• Battery Degradation: Early models (22 kWh) experienced more noticeable degradation.
• Range Extender Issues: REx models have reported occasional fuel system failures.
• Door Handle & Lock Issues: Some owners report failure of door locking mechanisms.
• Suspension Wear: Rear suspension components may wear out faster than expected.

Fuel Consumption (Gasoline REx Model)​

• City: 5.5 L/100 km (43 MPG)
• Highway: 6.2 L/100 km (38 MPG)
• Combined: 5.8 L/100 km (40 MPG)

Final Verdict​

The BMW i3 is a great choice for those who want a unique, stylish, and sustainable electric car. If you find a used 10-year-old BMW i3 for $3,500, you can dramatically increase its range by upgrading the battery, adding an additional pack, or modifying the Range Extender system. However, you must consider battery health, potential maintenance costs, and range limitations before purchasing.
Would you like recommendations on upgrading the battery or improving range efficiency?

#bmw i3

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