BMW has opened European orders for the new i3 50 xDrive First Edition. Based on the M Sport, it has an illuminated grille and upgraded interior. Power comes from a dual-motor all-wheel drive system developing 463 hp. BMW has officially opened orders for the new i3 in Europe, ahead of its launch this fall. Citing high demand, the company is accepting takers for the i3 50 xDrive First Edition. Based on the M Sport variant, the special edition features a handful of extras including an Iconic Glow grille and AC Charging Professional. The latter increases the AC charging rate from 11 kW to 22 kW. More: BMW’s Electric M3 Concept Stands Next To The E30 And Hopes You Approve Bigger changes occur inside as the First Edition adds a heated steering wheel, a tri-zone climate control system, and a 3D head-up display. They’re joined by fancier front seats, an automatic trunk, and a Harman Kardon premium audio system. An assortment of options will be available including heated rear seats, a panoramic glass roof, and an electrically operated tow bar. The model also offers Motorway Assistant, which allows for hands-free driving at speeds up to 81 mph (130 km/h). Customers will also find six color choices as well as three wheel options. The latter measure 19- and 20-inches. Power comes from a 108.7 kWh battery pack, which feeds a dual-motor all-wheel drive system developing a combined output of 463 hp (345 kW / 469 PS) and 476 lb-ft (645 Nm) of torque. This enables the First Edition to accelerate from 0-62 mph (0-100 km/h) in 4.7 seconds and have a WLTP range of up to 563 miles (906 km). When the battery is low, owners will be thankful for 800V technology and a 400 kW DC fast charging capability. It enables the model to get 263 miles (423 km) of range in as little as ten minutes. Board Member Jochen Goller said, “The new BMW i3 is a groundbreaking car for us” and “we can already tell from the high level of interest … that it will be very well-received by our customers.” He went on to call it an “extremely significant” launch and say the start of orders is an “important next step.” The i3 50 xDrive First Edition will be priced from £57,905 OTR ($76,553) in the United Kingdom, which is £4,900 ($6,478) more than the regular i3 50 xDrive. In Germany, it carries a €9,440 ($10,828) premium and begins at €75,340 ($86,420).
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