BMW has unveiled a China-specific long-wheelbase i3 electric sedan. This bigger and more luxurious version of the i3 is unlikely to come to the UAE, but the standard version is on its way soon. Read more details about it below.

You can also check out the best used BMW cars with Cars24 UAE.

Also read: 2027 BMW 7 Series facelift revealed with design and feature updates

Everything to know about the BMW i3 LWB

The all-new i3 LWB or long-wheelbase version is based on the standard model. Since BMW and other luxury carmakers often launch specific models for China due to high demand, this one is also meant for the Chinese market.

While it will not launch in the UAE, the i3 LWB is surely an interesting model. It is based on the standard i3, which was introduced not long ago globally.

Exterior design

The exterior design of the new i3 LWB is largely similar to the standard car, as it features the Neue Klasse design philosophy, which offers the new dual LED DRLs, an illuminated grille, and sharper LED taillights. Since China has made conventional door handles mandatory, the i3 LWB features the old-school handles.

To slightly differentiate it from the standard spec, the LWB version gets the new alloy wheels. Also, the side profile gives away that it is a stretched version of the i3 electric sedan.

Interior features

On the inside, it boasts the new full-width Panoramic iDrive display, a rhomboidal infotainment screen, an optional passenger screen, a new crystal gear shift lever, and a vertical two-spoke steering wheel.

Feature highlights include the Level 2 ADAS safety suite, wireless charging with a cooling pad, powered seats, ambient lighting, and more. The interior theme of the i3 LWB features a brown and black leather combination.

Battery specs and range

Powering the i3 LWB is the new 800V architecture, which is also used on the iX3 electric SUV. It boasts an 108.7 kWh lithium-ion battery that offers an all-wheel drive 469 bhp and 645 Nm power and torque. 

The i3 LWB supports up to 400 kW DC charging. As per the CLTC cycle, the i3 LWB can deliver upwards of 1,000 km range.

When will the new BMW i3 launch in the UAE?

While the new i3 LWB is only meant for the Chinese market, the standard BMW i3 electric sedan is expected to launch in the Middle East later this year.

Cars24 UAE says

While the global carmakers like Honda and Rolls-Royce are retracting from their EV goals due to slow global sales, BMW insists on the EV expansion as it sees a high demand in China. The new i3 LWB is a classic example of what a high market share in a specific region can make a manufacturer pull out special models.