BMW I3 50 xDrive Claims 468-Mile Range, Exceeding Tesla Lineup
The preliminary EPA estimate ranks fourth among all U.S. EVs, behind Lucid, Chevrolet, and GMC.
BMW has revealed preliminary specifications for the new i3 50 xDrive sedan, claiming up to 468 miles of U.S. range. This figure exceeds the EPA-rated range of every passenger vehicle currently in Tesla’s lineup.
What Happened
The estimated 468-mile range places the i3 50 xDrive fourth among all electric vehicles sold in the United States by advertised figures, trailing only the Lucid Air (512 miles), Chevrolet Silverado EV (493 miles), and GMC Sierra EV (478 miles). For context, the Tesla Model 3 Long Range All-Wheel Drive is EPA-rated at up to 342 miles, while the single-motor long-range version covers 363 miles. It is important to note that these figures mix EPA ratings and manufacturer claims, and BMW’s number is preliminary.
The i3 50 xDrive utilizes an 800-volt architecture with two motors and all-wheel drive, mirroring the specs of the iX3 SUV. While the U.S. release did not explicitly state battery capacity, European models are confirmed with a 108.7 kWh battery, suggesting the U.S. version is likely identical. The sedan produces 463 hp and accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in 4.5 seconds.
Why It Matters
The i3 50 xDrive features a NACS port for North American Supercharging compatibility, alongside a CCS adapter. It supports peak charging at 400 kW, with BMW stating that 10 minutes of charging can add up to 208 miles of range in the U.S. This charging speed and range combination positions the vehicle as a direct competitor in the long-distance EV segment, addressing range anxiety with hardware that matches its claims.
In Europe, the same model boasts an even higher WLTP estimate of 567 miles (912 kilometers) and can add 263 miles in 10 minutes. However, the difference in range addition between markets is attributed to calculation methods rather than hardware differences. The U.S. model starts at $61,500, or $62,850 including destination fees, with deliveries scheduled for the first quarter of 2027.
The Bottom Line
BMW’s i3 50 xDrive enters the U.S. market with a range claim that surpasses Tesla’s passenger cars and ranks fourth overall among available EVs. With a starting price of $61,500 and NACS integration, it presents a significant option for buyers prioritizing distance per charge, pending final EPA verification of the preliminary figures.
