A Chinese language firm has launched upgraded battery modules for the getting older BMW i3, claiming that its new energy-dense pack can double the driving vary of the unique mannequin.
The BMW i3, launched in 2013, was initially outfitted with an 18.2-kilowatt-hour battery pack. This primary mannequin, generally known as the “60” resulting from its 60 amp-hour capability, had an EPA-rated vary of solely 81 miles. This was later enhanced with a 94 Ah battery, which elevated the vary to 114 miles, and finally, a 120 Ah battery was launched, permitting for an EPA vary of 153 miles.
Whereas these updates represented vital developments, house owners of the unique i3 have been left with a much less environment friendly energy supply. Over time, as batteries degrade, these with the 60 Ah pack could now discover it tough to exceed 70 miles on a full cost. Whereas this vary may work properly for metropolis driving, it will probably pose challenges for longer journeys.
Luckily, an answer has emerged from a Chinese language firm named Martigi Manufacturing (MTG). They’ve developed a battery pack that reportedly doubles the driving vary of the 60 Ah model and is appropriate with all i3 variants. This new battery pack is claimed to even outshine the most important factory-installed pack.
MTG’s innovation makes use of higher-density Nickel Cobalt Manganese (NCM) cells manufactured by China’s CATL, which match into the identical battery casing as the unique Samsung cells. The configuration and voltage stay unchanged, however the vitality capability is considerably elevated.
The upgraded pack comprises 96 cells organized in eight modules, with a complete capability of 154 Ah or 54 kWh. This marks a 156% enhance over the unique 60 Ah pack and a 28% enhance in comparison with the most important authentic pack put in within the i3.
MTG collaborates with Echi Tech to offer a reflashed battery administration system, new electrical connectors, and all the mandatory parts for a house set up. Nevertheless, they suggest {that a} certified service supplier carry out the improve for optimum outcomes.
The brand new CATL pack is projected to supply a driving vary of 248 miles on a full cost. In an illustration video launched by MTG, an i3 outfitted with the upgraded pack managed a powerful 186 miles on the freeway whereas sustaining a velocity of 62 miles per hour. Charging is reportedly much like the unique setup, permitting the brand new pack to just accept as much as 50 kW from a DC quick charger.
On Alibaba, the 154 Ah battery pack is priced at $5,800, excluding transport. There’s additionally a 120 Ah model accessible for $4,800, which serves as a direct alternative for the unique 120 Ah pack. MTG assures that the brand new battery modules include a three-year guarantee, rated for two,000 cost and discharge cycles, though it stays to be seen if this guarantee applies in the US.
As compared, an authentic BMW-sourced battery pack prices round $15,000 with out labor. Even when contemplating potential transport prices from China, the overall expense for the upgraded pack is more likely to be considerably decrease than the OEM possibility.
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