BMW has showcased the capabilities of the i3 50L, a long-wheelbase electric sedan developed exclusively for the Chinese market. During a recent endurance test, the vehicle covered 754 miles, or 1,213 km, on a single charge, finishing the journey with 1% of battery capacity remaining.
The i3 50L is equipped with a 113.4 kWh battery, a component not currently available in the versions of the i3 sold in the United States or Europe. The vehicle features a single-motor, rear-wheel-drive configuration and includes specific design modifications, such as unique door handles, to comply with local safety regulations.
Data from the test indicates an average efficiency of 8.8 kWh per 100 miles. The Chinese-market model is also 108 mm longer than its Western counterparts, a design choice intended to provide additional rear-seat space for local customers, which may also accommodate the larger battery pack.
In contrast, the European i3 40 xDrive utilizes an 82.8 kWh battery, while the i3 50 xDrive variant is equipped with a 108.7 kWh battery. These Western models currently feature dual-motor, all-wheel-drive systems, with the i3 50 xDrive offering a WLTP-rated range of up to 567 miles, or 912 km.
