BMW I3 EV Achieves 753-Mile Range in Endurance Test

BMW conducted an endurance test of its new i3 sedan in China, achieving a range of 753 miles on a single charge. The result highlights the efficiency of the automaker’s new Neue Klasse platform, though the specific configuration tested differs from initial U.S. market offerings.

What Happened

BMW took a rear-wheel-drive, long-wheelbase version of the new i3 on a mixed-route endurance run involving highways, national roads, and urban streets. The vehicle covered 753 miles (1,213 kilometers) and finished with 1% of battery charge remaining. With a usable battery capacity of 108.7 kilowatt-hours, the test demonstrated an energy consumption of 14.1 kWh per 100 miles, equating to an average efficiency of 7 miles per kilowatt-hour. The top-spec model supports charging speeds up to 400 kW, allowing a 10-to-80% charge in 21 minutes.

Why It Matters

The test results serve as a promotional effort by BMW to showcase the efficiency of its new EVs following significant investment in development. However, the 753-mile figure applies to a Chinese-spec, rear-wheel-drive model. Vehicles sold in the United States and Europe will initially be offered with dual-motor all-wheel drive only. In the U.S., the i3 50 xDrive has an EPA-estimated range of 468 miles. BMW has confirmed that the battery pack size is consistent globally, and a rear-motor version is planned for the U.S. market. BMW did not disclose the average speed or the specific breakdown of highway versus city driving during the test.

The Bottom Line

The 753-mile range was achieved by a specific Chinese-market configuration that may not immediately mirror U.S. availability. While the shared battery capacity suggests potential for strong real-world efficiency in American models, the EPA estimate for the initially available dual-motor U.S. variant remains significantly lower at 468 miles.