The BMW i3 60 Ah is a compact electric vehicle designed primarily for city driving, produced between September 2013 and February 2017. With a usable battery capacity of 18.8 kWh, this model offers a real-world range of 115 km under cold weather conditions, making it ideal for short commutes and urban mobility. Its efficiency is rated at 163 Wh/km, providing reliable performance in moderate driving conditions.
This BMW i3 60 Ah delivers 125 kW of power (170 PS) and 250 Nm of torque, allowing it to accelerate from 0–100 km/h in 7.2 seconds. With a top speed of 150 km/h, it combines practicality with sporty driving dynamics. Rear-wheel drive ensures agile handling, while the car’s lightweight structure enhances efficiency. The cabin comfortably seats four people, and cargo capacity ranges from 260 L to 1,100 L with rear seats folded, making it practical for everyday use.
Range and Energy Consumption
The real-world range of the BMW i3 60 Ah varies depending on weather conditions and driving style. Cold weather can significantly reduce range, while mild temperatures allow the battery to perform at its best. The table below summarizes the BMW i3 60 Ah range and energy consumption in different conditions:
| Condition | City | Highway | Combined |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cold Weather (-10°C) | 115 km | 80 km | 100 km |
| Mild Weather (23°C) | 180 km | 105 km | 135 km |
| Energy Consumption (Wh/km) | 163 | 235 | 188 (cold) |
| 104 | 179 | 139 (mild) |
The vehicle’s 1-Stop Range under average conditions is 133 km, reflecting the distance it can cover with a single 15-minute fast charge. However, the long-distance suitability rating is 0 out of 5, highlighting that this EV is best suited for city and suburban driving rather than extended highway trips.
Charging Options
Charging the BMW i3 60 Ah is flexible, offering home, destination, and fast charging options:
Home / Destination AC Charging
| Type | Max Power | Time (0–100%) | Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wall Plug | 2.3 kW | 9h 45m | 12 km/h |
| 1-phase 16A | 3.7 kW | 6h | 19 km/h |
| 1-phase 32A | 7.4 kW | 3h | 38 km/h |
| 3-phase 16A | 3.7 kW† | 6h | 19 km/h |
| 3-phase 32A | 7.4 kW† | 3h | 38 km/h |
† Charging limited by onboard charger
Fast Charging (CCS)
| Power | Avg Power | Time (10–80%) | Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| 47 kW DC | 41 kW DC | 20 min | 240 km/h |
The BMW i3 60 Ah supports Autocharge, allowing seamless initiation at compatible CCS charging stations. However, it does not support Plug & Charge. Fast charging makes short trips or unexpected detours manageable, even with limited range.
Performance and Safety
The BMW i3 60 Ah delivers sporty acceleration with smooth power delivery. Its lightweight architecture and compact dimensions enhance maneuverability, especially in urban environments.
Safety ratings from Euro NCAP (2013) include:
- Adult Occupant: 86%
- Child Occupant: 81%
- Vulnerable Road Users: 57%
- Safety Assist: 55%
While adequate for city use, the modest long-distance performance suggests caution on extended trips, particularly in cold climates where efficiency drops.
BMW i3 60 Ah Full Specifications Table
| Category | Specification |
|---|---|
| Model | BMW i3 60 Ah |
| Production Years | Sep 2013 – Feb 2017 |
| Vehicle Type | Electric City Car / Compact EV |
| Body Style | 5-door hatchback |
| Seating Capacity | 4 |
| Cargo Volume | 260 L (rear seats up) / 1,100 L (rear seats folded) |
| Dimensions | Length: 3,999 mm Width: 1,775 mm Height: 1,578 mm Wheelbase: 2,570 mm Ground Clearance: 140 mm |
| Curb Weight | 1,195 – 1,270 kg |
| Battery Type | Lithium-ion |
| Battery Capacity (Gross / Usable) | 22 kWh / 18.8 kWh |
| Battery Voltage | 360 V |
| Range (EPA / Real-World) | Cold Weather: 115 km Mild Weather: 135 km combined |
| Energy Consumption | Cold: 188 Wh/km Mild: 139 Wh/km |
| Motor | Synchronous AC electric |
| Power Output | 125 kW (170 PS) |
| Torque | 250 Nm |
| 0–100 km/h | 7.2 seconds |
| Top Speed | 150 km/h |
| Drive Layout | Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD) |
| Suspension | Front: MacPherson strut Rear: Multi-link |
| Brakes | Front: Ventilated disc Rear: Disc |
| Wheels / Tires | 19-inch standard 155/70 R19 (front), 175/60 R19 (rear) |
| Steering | Electric Power Steering (EPS) |
| Charging (AC) | 2.3 – 7.4 kW, 3–10 hours depending on setup |
| Charging (DC Fast) | 50 kW CCS, 10–80% in ~20 min |
| Safety Ratings (Euro NCAP 2013) | Adult Occupant: 86% Child Occupant: 81% Vulnerable Road Users: 57% Safety Assist: 55% |
| Features | Regenerative braking, Auto Start-Stop, Keyless entry, BMW ConnectedDrive, Climate control |
| Long-Distance Suitability | 0 / 5 (not ideal for extended trips) |
| Environmental Class | Zero Emission Vehicle |
Conclusion
The BMW i3 60 Ah remains a practical, stylish, and efficient choice for urban commuters seeking an electric vehicle with responsive performance and compact dimensions. Its AC and DC charging flexibility provides convenience for daily use, while real-world range and efficiency make it suitable for short trips rather than long-distance travel. For drivers prioritizing city driving, eco-friendliness, and maneuverability, the BMW i3 60 Ah offers a compelling electric mobility solution.
