BMW i3 2014-present

BMW i3 2014-present Body Specifications

Explore detailed technical specifications for the 2014-Present BMW i3 body system, including CFRP construction, aerodynamics, weight distribution, and safety features. Ideal for technicians and enthusiasts.

Updated Oct 24, 2023

Overview Specifications

Comprehensive description of the body specifications for the 2014-Present BMW i3, including key features, measurements, and technical details. This section provides detailed insights into the vehicle's body structure, dimensions, materials, and design elements.

How to Use

Use the search function to locate specific body specifications by entering keywords such as 'dimensions', 'materials', or 'weight'. Use exact terms for precise results.

Navigate through the body documentation sections using the table of contents. Each major section is divided into subsections for easy access to specific details.

Key Specifications

Length

3999 mm (157.4 in)

Curb Weight

1195 kg (2635 lbs)

Drag Coefficient

0.29

Trunk Volume

260 liters (9.2 cu ft)

Torsional Rigidity

22,000 Nm/degree

Available Specifications

Exterior Dimensions

Detailed measurements and specifications of the BMW i3's exterior dimensions, including length, width, height, and wheelbase.

Overall Dimensions

Length: 3999 mm (157.4 in)
Width: 1775 mm (69.9 in)
Height: 1578 mm (62.1 in)
Wheelbase: 2570 mm (101.2 in)
Track width (front/rear): 1555 mm / 1555 mm (61.2 in / 61.2 in)

Ground Clearance and Weight

Ground clearance: 130 mm (5.1 in)
Curb weight: 1195 kg (2635 lbs)
Gross vehicle weight: 1545 kg (3406 lbs)
Weight distribution (front/rear): 47% / 53%

Note: Weight distribution is optimized for improved handling and stability.

Body Structure and Materials

Technical details about the BMW i3's body structure, including materials used and their impact on performance and safety.

Carbon Fiber Reinforced Plastic (CFRP) Passenger Cell

Material: Carbon Fiber Reinforced Plastic (CFRP)
Weight reduction: 50% compared to steel
Torsional rigidity: 22,000 Nm/degree
Crash safety: Meets highest safety standards

Aluminum Chassis

Material: Aluminum
Weight: 250 kg (551 lbs)
Corrosion resistance: High
Impact absorption: Enhanced crash safety

Note: The aluminum chassis is designed for lightweight durability and structural integrity.

Aerodynamics and Design

Information on the aerodynamic design features of the BMW i3, including drag coefficient and design elements.

Drag Coefficient

Drag coefficient (Cd): 0.29
Frontal area: 2.38 m² (25.6 ft²)
Air resistance: Optimized for efficiency
Energy consumption reduction: Up to 10%

Design Features

Flush-mounted door handles
Streamlined side mirrors
Underbody paneling for reduced drag
Lightweight alloy wheels

Note: Design features are optimized for both aesthetics and aerodynamic efficiency.

Interior Space and Cargo Capacity

Details about the interior dimensions and cargo capacity of the BMW i3, including seating and storage.

Interior Dimensions

Headroom (front/rear): 1010 mm / 970 mm (39.8 in / 38.2 in)
Legroom (front/rear): 1040 mm / 890 mm (40.9 in / 35.0 in)
Shoulder room (front/rear): 1360 mm / 1320 mm (53.5 in / 52.0 in)
Hip room (front/rear): 1280 mm / 1240 mm (50.4 in / 48.8 in)

Cargo Capacity

Trunk volume: 260 liters (9.2 cu ft)
Rear seats folded: 1100 liters (38.8 cu ft)
Load height: 640 mm (25.2 in)
Load width: 1000 mm (39.4 in)

Note: Cargo capacity is maximized through flexible seating arrangements.

Search Specifications

Search by specification name, value, or description

Component Specifications

Dimensions

Overall Length: 3999 mm

Overall Width: 1775 mm

Overall Height: 1578 mm

Wheelbase: 2570 mm

Track Width Front: 1555 mm

Track Width Rear: 1555 mm

Ground Clearance: 130 mm

Weight

Curb Weight: 1195 kg

Gross Vehicle Weight: 1545 kg

Payload Capacity: 350 kg

Weight Distribution Front: 47%

Weight Distribution Rear: 53%

Materials

Body Structure: Carbon Fiber Reinforced Plastic (CFRP)

Roof Material: Recycled Thermoplastic

Door Material: Aluminum

Hood Material: Aluminum

Rear Hatch Material: Thermoplastic

Aerodynamics

Drag Coefficient: 0.29 Cd

Frontal Area: 2.19 m²

Air Resistance: 0.64 N·s²/m²

Doors

Front Door Type: Suicide Doors

Rear Door Type: Suicide Doors

Door Opening Angle Front: 80 degrees

Door Opening Angle Rear: 90 degrees

Door Hinge Type: Integrated Hinge System

Windows

Front Windshield Thickness: 4.76 mm

Side Window Thickness: 3.5 mm

Rear Window Thickness: 4.76 mm

Window Material: Laminated Safety Glass

Lighting

Headlight Type: LED

Headlight Output: 1200 lumens

Taillight Type: LED

Taillight Output: 600 lumens

Fog Light Type: LED

Fog Light Output: 400 lumens

Mirrors

Side Mirror Type: Electrically Adjustable

Side Mirror Dimensions: 200 mm x 100 mm

Rearview Mirror Type: Auto-Dimming

Rearview Mirror Dimensions: 250 mm x 80 mm

Safety

Airbag Count: 6

Airbag Locations

Front
Side
Curtain

Crash Test Rating: 5-Star Euro NCAP

Seatbelt Type: 3-Point with Pretensioners

Crumple Zones

Front
Rear

Maintenance

Body Wash interval: Every 2 weeks

Waxing Interval: Every 3 months

Rust Protection interval: Annually

Paint Care Products

BMW Paint Cleaner
BMW Wax

Service Information Service

Detailed service requirements and schedules for the BMW i3 body components

10000

Inspect body for damage
Check door alignment and hinges
Inspect and clean window seals
Check and adjust side mirrors

Ensure all body components are functioning correctly and free from damage

20000

Inspect and clean headlights and taillights
Check and replace windshield wipers if necessary
Inspect and clean door seals
Check and adjust rearview mirror

Maintain visibility and safety features in optimal condition

50000

Inspect and replace any damaged body panels
Check and repair any rust spots
Inspect and replace any worn-out door hinges
Check and replace any damaged window glass

Ensure structural integrity and aesthetic appearance of the vehicle

Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to common questions about torque specifications

What materials are used in the construction of the BMW i3 body?

The BMW i3 body is constructed using a combination of lightweight materials, including carbon fiber reinforced plastic (CFRP) for the passenger cell and aluminum for the chassis. This design reduces weight and enhances structural integrity, contributing to the vehicle's efficiency and safety.

What are the dimensions of the BMW i3 body?

The BMW i3 has a length of 3999 mm, a width of 1775 mm, and a height of 1578 mm. The wheelbase is 2570 mm, and the vehicle has a curb weight of approximately 1195 kg, depending on the configuration.

How does the BMW i3 body contribute to its safety rating?

The BMW i3 body is designed with a high-strength CFRP passenger cell that provides exceptional crash protection. The vehicle has received a 5-star Euro NCAP safety rating, with high scores in adult occupant protection, child occupant protection, and pedestrian safety.

What is the drag coefficient of the BMW i3?

The BMW i3 has a drag coefficient (Cd) of 0.29, which is achieved through its aerodynamic design, including a flat underbody, streamlined shape, and optimized airflow around the vehicle.

Can the BMW i3 body be repaired after a collision?

Yes, the BMW i3 body can be repaired after a collision, but it requires specialized techniques and materials due to the use of CFRP. Repairs should be performed by certified BMW technicians using genuine parts to ensure safety and maintain warranty coverage.

Factory Service Resources

Access official service manuals, technical documents, and repair guides. These resources provide detailed procedures, specifications, and diagrams directly from the manufacturer.

BMW i3 Body Repair Manual

Coming Soon

Official repair manual for the BMW i3 body, detailing procedures for collision repair, material handling, and safety precautions.

BMW i3 Aerodynamics Guide

Coming Soon

Technical guide explaining the aerodynamic design principles of the BMW i3 body, including airflow optimization and drag reduction techniques.

BMW i3 Safety Features Overview

Coming Soon

Comprehensive overview of the safety features integrated into the BMW i3 body, including crash test results and structural design details.

BMW i3 CFRP Material Specifications

Coming Soon

Detailed specifications and handling guidelines for the carbon fiber reinforced plastic (CFRP) used in the BMW i3 body construction.

About the Author

Expert automotive knowledge and experience

ASE

Alan Montanye

Automotive Technical Specialist

ASE Master Certified Technician with over a decade of hands-on experience in automotive repair and diagnostics.

Facebook Contact

15+ Years

Experience

500+ Guides

Guides

50+ Makes

Vehicles

1000+ Solutions

Solutions

Diagnostic

Specialized in advanced diagnostic techniques using modern scan tools and oscilloscopes.

Repair

Expert in both traditional mechanical repairs and modern vehicle systems.

Additional Expertise

Documentation

Created over 500 detailed repair guides and technical documents.

Training

Conducted technical training sessions and contributed to repair databases.

Certifications & Research

Certifications

ASE Master Technician Certification
Advanced Diagnostic Specialist
Hybrid/Electric Vehicle Systems
Performance Tuning Expert

Research & Community

Actively researches emerging technologies and contributes to automotive forums.

Legal Disclaimer

Important information about using this content

Always refer to your vehicle's service manual and take appropriate safety precautions when performing any maintenance or repairs.

General Information

The information provided on this website is for general informational purposes only. While we strive to maintain accuracy in our content, all specifications, procedures, and technical information should be verified against your vehicle's official service manual or with the manufacturer directly.

Warranty & Liability

The content on this website is provided "as is" without any representations or warranties, express or implied. We make no representations or warranties regarding the accuracy, completeness, or availability of the information.

We shall not be liable for any direct, indirect, special, or consequential damages arising from the use of information on this website.

Technical Information

All specifications, including torque values, fluid capacities, and maintenance procedures, should be verified against your vehicle's factory service manual.
Vehicle specifications and procedures may vary by model year, trim level, and region.
Always follow the manufacturer's recommended procedures and safety precautions.
Working on vehicles can be dangerous. Always take proper safety precautions and use appropriate safety equipment.
If you're unsure about any procedure, consult a qualified professional mechanic.

Intellectual Property

All content, including text, images, and specifications, is protected by copyright and other intellectual property laws. Any unauthorized use or reproduction is prohibited.