There’s A New BMW i3 In China, But It’s Not What You Think It Is

Spy photographers have snapped the BMW 3-Series EV on multiple occasions, but now it’s been revealed by Chinese authorities as the all-new i3.

Sharing nothing in common with the electric hatchback, the 2022 BMW i3 is apparently based on the facelifted 3-Series Long Wheelbase. Besides new headlights that will presumably be shared with the standard model, the i3 features a fully enclosed grille with available blue accents.

Elsewhere, we can see a relatively sporty fascia with sizable intakes. The model also has aerodynamic wheels and modified front fenders that flow into more pronounced side skirts. Out back, there’s a unique rear bumper and diffuser as well as i3 badging on the trunk.

Also Read: The 2022 BMW i4 M50 Is The First Electric M Car And It Packs 536 HP

The government listing for the i3 is light on specifics, but notes the model has a “pure electric” powertrain and a top speed of 112 mph (180 km/h). The listing also says the sedan has an electric motor that produces 335 hp (250 kW / 340 PS). That’s the same output as the i4 eDrive40, which features a single rear-mounted electric motor.

If the similarities extend beyond the motor, the i3 could have an 83.9 kWh lithium-ion battery pack. It enables the i4 eDrive40 to have a preliminary EPA-estimated range of up to 300 miles (483 km).

Little else is known about the model at this point, but an unveiling shouldn’t be far off. If we were to guess, we wouldn’t be surprised to see the i3 turn up at the Beijing Auto Show in April.