The BMW i3s 120 Ah stands out as a significant milestone in the evolution of electric vehicles (EVs), combining sporty performance with sustainable design. Announced and released in 2019, this model showcases BMW’s commitment to advancing electric mobility with enhanced power, improved battery capacity, and refined features. The i3s 120 Ah not only represents an environmentally friendly choice but also demonstrates that driving an electric vehicle can be exhilarating and luxurious. As an embodiment of BMW’s vision for the future, it continues to influence the development of next-generation EVs.
See also: The BMW i3 94 Ah | BMW i3s 94 Ah
Key Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Launch Date | Announced: 2019; Released: 2019 |
| Status | Available to order |
| Base Price | €42,600 / £34,800 |
| Performance | RWD, 135 kW (184 hp), 270 Nm (199 lb-ft) |
| Acceleration | 0-100 km/h in 6.9 seconds |
| Max Speed | 160 km/h (99 mph) |
| Battery Capacity | 37.9 kWh usable, 42.2 kWh total |
| Battery Technology | Liquid-cooled Li-ion 350V |
| Range | 283 km WLTP (246 km EPA, 344 km NEDC) |
| Consumption | 16.2 kWh/100 km WLTP (18.6 kWh/100 km EPA) |
| Recuperation | Yes, up to 50 kW |
| Heat Pump | Yes |
| AC Charging | Type 2 11 kW, 0-80% in 3 hours |
| DC Charging | CCS 49 kW max, 0-80% in 45 min |
| Body Type | 5-door hatchback, 4 seats |
| Dimensions | 4011 x 1775 x 1598 mm (157.9 x 69.9 x 62.9 in) |
| Drag Coefficient | 0.29 Cd |
| Wheelbase | 2570 mm (101.2 in) |
| Clearance | 131 mm (5.2 in) |
| Weight | EU: 1365 kg unladen, 1730 kg gross |
| Suspension | Independent Front MacPherson struts, Independent rear five-link |
| Wheels | R19, R20 |
| Trunk Capacity | 260 l, 1100 l max |
| Frunk | No |
| Towing Capacity | No |
| Center Display | 8.8″ touchscreen |
| Driver’s Display | 6.5″ |
| Head-up Display | No |
| Seats | Heated front seats |
| Roof | Panoramic glass sunroof |
| Parking Aids | Front and rear sensors, reversing camera, automatic self-parking system |
| Connectivity | Wireless Apple CarPlay |
| Airbags | 6 airbags: front, side, including head airbag system; front seats knee airbags |
| Driving Aids | Forward Collision Warning, City Collision Mitigation, Preventive Pedestrian Protection, Cruise Control with Stop&Go, Speed Limit Info, Route-ahead Assistant, Traffic Jam Assist |
Performance
The BMW i3s 120 Ah delivers a dynamic driving experience with its rear-wheel-drive setup powered by an electric motor that produces 135 kW (184 hp) and 270 Nm (199 lb-ft) of torque. This powerful combination allows the i3s to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in just 6.9 seconds, making it one of the sportiest compact electric cars on the market. With a top speed of 160 km/h (99 mph), the i3s is well-suited for both urban commuting and highway driving. Its agile handling and responsive steering are enhanced by a low center of gravity and a lightweight carbon fiber-reinforced plastic (CFRP) body, providing a thrilling yet efficient driving experience.
Battery and Charging
The BMW i3s 120 Ah is equipped with a 37.9 kWh usable battery (42.2 kWh total capacity), offering a practical range of up to 283 km on the WLTP cycle (246 km EPA, 344 km NEDC). This substantial battery capacity ensures that drivers can cover considerable distances on a single charge, making it suitable for both daily commutes and longer journeys.
The vehicle’s energy consumption is competitive, at 16.2 kWh/100 km (WLTP) and 18.6 kWh/100 km (EPA), highlighting its efficiency. The i3s supports both AC and DC charging, with Type 2 AC charging at 11 kW allowing an 80% charge in approximately 3 hours, and CCS DC fast charging up to 49 kW enabling an 80% charge in just about 45 minutes. Additionally, the i3s features a recuperation system that can recover up to 50 kW during braking, further extending its range and enhancing efficiency.
Design and Dimensions
The BMW i3s 120 Ah features a distinctive and futuristic design that sets it apart from other vehicles. Its compact dimensions—4011 mm in length, 1775 mm in width, and 1598 mm in height—make it ideal for navigating crowded urban environments. The drag coefficient of 0.29 Cd reflects its aerodynamic efficiency, contributing to its overall range and performance. The 2570 mm wheelbase and 131 mm ground clearance provide stability and comfort, whether maneuvering through city streets or cruising on the highway. The vehicle’s independent front MacPherson strut and independent rear five-link suspension systems deliver a smooth and balanced ride, enhancing the overall driving experience.
Infotainment and Displays
The BMW i3s 120 Ah comes equipped with a state-of-the-art infotainment system centered around an 8.8-inch touchscreen display. This high-resolution screen provides access to navigation, media, and vehicle settings, ensuring that drivers stay connected and informed. A 6.5-inch driver’s display offers essential driving information, such as speed, range, and battery status, directly in the driver’s line of sight. Although it lacks a head-up display, the system’s intuitive design and user-friendly interface make it easy to operate. Wireless Apple CarPlay connectivity allows seamless integration of iPhones, enabling drivers to access their favorite apps, music, and contacts without the need for cables.
Comfort and Convenience
Comfort and convenience are key aspects of the BMW i3s 120 Ah. The vehicle features heated front seats, providing warmth during colder months. The panoramic glass sunroof enhances the cabin’s airy and spacious feel, allowing natural light to flood the interior. Parking is made effortless with front and rear sensors, a reversing camera, and an automatic self-parking system, making maneuvering in tight spaces a breeze. High-quality materials and thoughtful design details contribute to a premium feel inside the cabin, while features like wireless Apple CarPlay enhance connectivity and convenience for all occupants.
Safety Features
Safety is a paramount concern for BMW, and the i3s 120 Ah is equipped with an array of advanced safety features. The vehicle includes six airbags, including front, side, and head airbags, as well as knee airbags for the front seats. Advanced driving aids such as Forward Collision Warning, City Collision Mitigation, and Preventive Pedestrian Protection provide additional layers of protection. The car also features Cruise Control with Stop&Go, Speed Limit Info, Route-ahead Assistant, and Traffic Jam Assist, ensuring that drivers are well-supported in various driving conditions. These features not only enhance safety but also contribute to a more relaxed and enjoyable driving experience.
Legacy and Influence
The BMW i3s 120 Ah has left a lasting legacy in the electric vehicle market. As one of BMW’s pioneering electric models, it showcased the potential of electric mobility combined with luxury and performance. Its innovative design, efficient powertrain, and comprehensive safety features set new standards for future electric vehicles. The i3s demonstrated that electric vehicles could be both practical and exciting, paving the way for subsequent models and advancements in the EV industry. As the automotive industry continues to evolve towards a more sustainable future, the BMW i3s 120 Ah will be remembered as a trailblazer that helped shape the path forward.
In conclusion, the BMW i3s 120 Ah is a remarkable example of how electric vehicles can provide a compelling blend of performance, efficiency, and style. Its influence on the market and the future of electric mobility is profound, making it a significant chapter in the story of sustainable transportation.
