BMW Changes the i3 for 2017

2017 BMW i3 (Credit: BMW)

Things are really heating up in the electric car market, and BMW is feeling the pressure. The Germans have announced changes for the i3 for the 2017 model year, trying to make the car more appealing as the hype builds for the Tesla Model 3.

A new model is part of the changes, called the Deka World. The battery is the same size, but at 33 kWh its capacity is 50 percent higher. What does that mean? According to BMW, range is extended to about 114 miles. That’s still a far cry from the kind of range Tesla’s talking about, but the Model 3 won’t be out for a while.

If you don’t mind burning some gasoline here and there, remember that the i3 can come with a range-extending engine. On the Deka World, BMW also expanded the gas tank. That means even better driving range if you go with this option. The company isn’t saying how much further the new setup will take you, at least not yet.

With access to a DC fast charger, it takes less than 40 minutes to juice up 80 percent of the battery. That’s actually competitive with Tesla.

Other changes are coming to the i3 for 2017. All models gain a universal garage door opener, real-time traffic info and keyless entry/ignition. The moonroof option will finally be available in the US. The i3 Giga World can be had with a Dark Oak Wood or Light Eucalyptus Wood trim.