Segment:
Premium Compact Electric/Range-Extended Electric Vehicle
Competitors 2014:
Nissan Leaf, Chevrolet Volt (with REx), Ford Focus Electric
Unique Selling Points:
Sustainable construction materials, unique design, carbon-fiber reinforced plastic (CFRP) passenger cell, efficient electric drivetrain, optional REx for extended range
Benefit To Owner:
Empowers owners to perform maintenance and repairs, saving time and money, and increasing vehicle knowledge.
Coverage Scope:
All models and all repairs A-Z
Repair Specificity:
Vehicle-specific, factory technician level
Estimated Pages:
Extensive (exact count not provided, but implied to be comprehensive)
Type:
Service and Repair Manual
Digital Features:
Printable, zoomable images, searchable text (implied by PDF format)
Operating Systems:
Windows (Vista 32/64, XP, ME, 98, NT, 2000) and Mac
Software Requirements:
Adobe PDF Reader, Winzip (free online)
Powertrain:
Engine (BEV electric motor and REx internal combustion engine), Control System, Fuel Service Specifications (for REx), Emission Control (for REx), Intake Exhaust Cooling (for REx), Lube (for REx)
Drivetrain:
Auto Transmission/Clutch (single-speed reduction gear), Manual Transmission (N/A), Transfer Propeller Shaft (N/A), Drive Shaft, Differential, Axle Suspension
Chassis:
Tire & Wheel, Brake Control, Brake, Parking Brake, Steering Column, Power Steering
Electrical Electronics:
Ignition Starting Charging (relevant for REx), Electrical, Multiplex/CAN Communication, Engine Immobilizer, Cruise Control, Meter Audio/Visual, Horn, Door Lock, Air Conditioning, Suppl. Restraint System (SRS), Seat Belt
Body Interior:
Wiper & Washer, Windshield/Glass Mirror, Instrument Panel, Seat, Engine Hood/Door, Exterior & Interior
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting, fault code interpretation, system checks
Repair:
Component removal and installation, adjustments, sub-assembly repair
Wiring:
Complete wiring schematics
Depth:
Complete step-by-step instructions, diagrams, illustrations, specifications for complete repair
Electric Motor Type:
BMW eDrive electric motor
Electric Motor Power Output:
170 hp (125 kW) @ 4800 rpm
Electric Motor Torque:
184 lb-ft (250 Nm) @ 0–4800 rpm
0-60 Mph Acceleration:
Approximately 7.2 seconds (BEV)
Fuel Type Rex:
Unleaded Gasoline (for REx model)
Control System:
Advanced electronic control unit for electric drivetrain and REx management
Type:
Liquid-cooled electric motor and battery pack; air/liquid cooling for REx engine.
Type:
Lithium-ion high-voltage battery
Capacity Kwh:
18.8 kWh (usable)
Length:
158.1 inches (4015 mm)
Width:
69.2 inches (1757 mm)
Height:
63.4 inches (1610 mm)
Wheelbase:
100.4 inches (2550 mm)
Passenger Volume:
Approximately 87.9 cu ft
Cargo Volume Rear Seat Up:
10.1 cu ft
Cargo Volume Rear Seat Down:
36.0 cu ft
Curb Weight Bev:
Approximately 2,950 lbs (1338 kg)
Curb Weight Rex:
Approximately 3,234 lbs (1467 kg)
NHTSA Overall Rating:
4 out of 5 stars
IIHS Top Safety Pick:
Yes
Active Safety List:
Dynamic Stability Control (DSC), Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Brake Fade Compensation, Start-off Assistant, Cornering Brake Control (CBC)
Passive Safety List:
Advanced front airbags, front side-impact airbags, front and rear head protection system (air curtains), seat belt pre-tensioners, tire pressure monitor
Optional Driver Assistance:
Park Distance Control (PDC), rearview camera, optional Driver Assistance Package (includes adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning)
Infotainment System:
BMW iDrive infotainment system
Display Size:
10.7-inch central information display
Features:
Navigation system (optional), Bluetooth connectivity, USB audio interface, SiriusXM Satellite Radio (optional)
Driver Assistance Suite:
Available adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking (optional).
Connectivity Platform:
BMW ConnectedDrive services
Connectivity Features:
Remote Services (e.g., pre-conditioning, locking/unlocking via smartphone app)
General Maintenance Schedule:
Based on vehicle condition monitoring (CBS - Condition Based Service); typically includes cabin air filter, brake fluid, and battery health checks. REx model requires standard ICE maintenance like oil changes.
Coolant Type:
BMW Blue Performance Antifreeze/Coolant
Wiper Fluid:
BMW Windscreen Washer Concentrate or equivalent approved washer fluid
Common Wear Items:
Tires (due to instant torque), brake pads (reduced wear due to regenerative braking), cabin air filter.
Potential Ev Specific Issues:
Battery degradation over time (though generally managed well by thermal management systems), charging port issues, REx engine servicing (for REx models).
Heritage Focus:
BMW's long history of engineering excellence, performance, and premium vehicles, with a significant push into sustainable mobility.
I Subbrand Launch:
The i3 was the first mass-produced vehicle from BMW's 'i' sub-brand, dedicated to electric mobility and sustainable design.
Design Philosophy:
Built from the ground up as an electric vehicle, utilizing innovative materials like CFRP for weight reduction and efficiency.
Production Start Year:
2013
Manufacturing Location:
Leipzig, Germany