BMW's i division has upgraded the electric-powered i3 with a new battery that is claimed to extend its range by almost 30% under everyday driving conditions.

The new 120Ah lithium ion unit replaces the 94Ah battery used by the existing i3 and brings a 9.2kWh increase in energy capacity. In the standard i3, it provides a range of 311km, up to 55km more than its predecessor. In the more performance-orientated i3s, the new battery is claimed to bring a 40km improvement in range, officially rated at 285km.

The new battery, developed in partnership with Samsung, retains the same dimensions as the unit it replaces, enabling it to be packaged in the same dedicated space within the floor of the i3.