BMW i3

After introducing the technologically advanced i8 sedan in the Indian car market, the German luxury car maker BMW has announced about the launch of another electric car BMW i3. However, there is no information related to the official launch date of this hatchback. The automaker has already rolled out this vehicle in some international markets and is slated for a launch by the end of this year. This upcoming vehicle will be targeted towards those individuals, who look to minimize running cost without compromising in terms of luxury. It is expected to come with the same power train and variants, which are available in the global automobile markets. Like its international version, the India-bound version might be available in two trim levels, which will are equipped with a high voltage Li-ion /18.8 kWh battery. In addition to this, it is powered by a electro-synchronous 125kW motor that can churn out a maximum power of 102bhp in combination with a superior torque of 250Nm. It can go up to 190 Kilometers on a single charge, which gradually goes down to about 160 Kilometers in case of regular use. On the other hand, the other variant with range extender is fitted with a 0.6-litre petrol motor. It comprises of two cylinders and four valves that displaces 647cc. It can churn out a maximum power output of 38bhp and yields 56Nm of torque, which is rather good for an electric car. On the other hand, the automaker has bestowed this model series with a superior disc braking mechanism with internally vented brake discs, which delivers superior braking power. At the same time, it also gets a robust suspension system that helps to improve the drive comfort by dealing with all the jerks caused on roads.
Speculated to be out soon, this electric vehicle has a completely new body structure with ultra modern cosmetics. It has a distinct external appearance unlike any other hybrid vehicle available in this segment. The designers at the company seem to have worked hard to give it a conventional hatchback look, without compromise in its style. The front façade has an aggressive look featuring signature kidney bean shaped grille design. Its frame has the accents of Blue or Silver depending upon the exterior paint. Apart from these, the company has also given it sleek bonnet with high gloss shade, eye shaped headlight cluster, which is powered by LED headlights and day time running lights, body colored bumper with lower cladding and round shaped fog lamps. Its side profile is designed with refreshing new window frames, body colored door handles and wing mirrors. The most attractive aspect of its side is the stylish five twin spoke design alloy wheels, which have high sheen finish that enhances the appearance of its sides. However, the company is also going to give a provision for replacing these rims with a set of multi spoke or diamond cut alloy wheels. This yet to be launched vehicle has a glossy rear profile, which embodies the elegant brake lights and turn indicators. The windscreen has a conventional design and is accompanied by a stylish spoiler, which is further incorporated with high mount stop lamp. It also has sporty bumper in a dual tone color scheme, a pair of reflectors along with courtesy lamps and a stylish BMW logo, which is embedded just below the windscreen.

Coming to its interiors, this upcoming vehicle is expected to come with a spacious internal cabin that can accommodate at least five passengers and provide ample space. Its international version has well cushioned seats and are covered with premium fabric upholstery featuring leather inserts. Both the front seats are electrically adjustable including memory setting, which further enhances the comfort. The refreshing dashboard with a lot of wood inserts. It has a sophisticated instrument cluster featuring a high resolution display that provides essential information to the driver. The steering wheel has a modernistic two spoke design, which is covered with premium leather upholstery and gives the cabin a classy look. It is decorated with the company's logo with blue accents and is mounted with multi functional switches for additional comfort. It has an advanced center console that houses several equipments like an AC unit, illuminated control switches and an infotainment system. Apart from these, the cabin is incorporated it with an array of comfort features, which certainly provides a pleasurable driving experience. However, there is no information whether if all the aforementioned features will be available in the Indian version. It can be offered with features like a fully automatic climate control system, power steering with tilt adjustment, push button start, electrically operated windows, automatic headlamps, rain sensing wipers, power adjustable seats, central locking system, electrically operated outside mirrors and cabin lamps. On the other hand, it is expected to be fitted with a number of safety aspects as well. The list includes airbags, three point seat belts, active cruise control system with stop and go function, ABS along with EBD, approach control warning, pedestrian safety with city braking function and park assistance package. One of the most important features of this model series is that its passenger compartment is built with high strength carbon fibre, which is 30 percent lighter than the conventional aluminum. It provides optimum safety to the occupants inside by minimizing the impact that is caused in case of a collision. It is most likely that the automaker will launch this vehicle by the end of 2015 or in the first quarter of 2016.