These are the first pictures of BMW‘s new i3 Concept Coupe, which is a slightly sportier looking but less practical, three-door version of the carmaker’s carbon-fiber i3 hatchback that will enter production next year.
The i3 Concept Coupe will make its world premiere at this week’s Los Angeles Auto Show, with the Bavarian automaker stating that it “demonstrates the potential for conceivably extending the model range”, which in other words, means, expect a similar model to be added to the i3’s range in the very near future.
While keeping the 5d model’s lightweight structure and 2,570mm (101.2 inches) long wheelbase, BMW says that the Coupe has a “has a broader, lower-slung look”. The designers also eliminated the see-through panels on the doors and the lower section of the rear tailgate.
The i3 Coupe study measures 3,964mm (156.1 inches) in length, 1,768mm (69.6 inches) wide and 1,555mm (61.2 inches) tall, making it roughly the same size as a Ford Fiesta hatchback.
At a first glance, the i3 Coupe features a similar interior design to the i3 5d, but if you take a closer look, you will see that BMW has added some more production ready parts such as the infotainment system on the center console and the iDrive and window controls on the lower console.
The three-door model is propelled by an electric motor that produces 168hp (170PS) and 250Nm (184 lb-ft) channeled to the rear wheels via a single-speed transmission. Power is provided by a lithium-ion battery stored under the floor.
We will remind you that aside from the pure electric version, the i3 5-door will also be offered in a plug-in hybrid variant fitted with a normally-aspirated 1.5-liter three-cylinder petrol engine acting as a range extender charging the battery to generate extra miles.
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