BMW i3 Charging Time Guide

Complete charging specifications and times for all BMW i3 variants

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BMW i3 Model Variants

BMW i3 (60 Ah)

2014-2016

Battery Capacity

18.8 kWh

EPA Range

81 miles

Max DC Fast

50 kW

BMW i3 (94 Ah)

2017-2018

Battery Capacity

27.2 kWh

EPA Range

114 miles

Max DC Fast

50 kW

BMW i3 (120 Ah)

2019-2022

Battery Capacity

37.9 kWh

EPA Range

153 miles

Max DC Fast

50 kW

BMW i3s (120 Ah)

2019-2022

Battery Capacity

37.9 kWh

EPA Range

153 miles

Max DC Fast

50 kW

BMW i3 Charging Times

Charging MethodPower LevelCharging Time (10-80%)Estimated Cost

Home (120V)

2.3 kW (Level 1)15-20 hours$3.50-4.50

Home/Public (240V)

7.4 kW (Level 2)4-6 hours$3.50-4.50

Public DC Fast

50 kW (DC Fast)30-45 minutes$8-15

BMW i3 Charging Curve

The BMW i3 has a relatively simple charging curve due to its smaller battery capacity:

  • 0-50%: Maintains peak charging speed (up to 50 kW on DC fast charging)
  • 50-80%: Gradual reduction in charging speed for battery protection
  • 80-100%: Significantly slower charging (trickle charge)

BMW i3 Charging Costs

Home Charging (Most Economical)

  • • Level 2 (240V): $3.50-4.50 per full charge
  • • Cost per mile: ~$0.03-0.05
  • • Best for overnight charging
  • • Requires 240V outlet installation

Public DC Fast Charging

  • • DC Fast: $8-15 per session
  • • Cost per mile: ~$0.08-0.12
  • • Best for road trips
  • • 30-45 minutes for 10-80%

Cold Weather Charging

The BMW i3 is particularly sensitive to cold weather due to its smaller battery capacity:

Winter Challenges:

  • • Range can drop by 30-40% in freezing temperatures
  • • Charging speeds reduced by 20-30%
  • • Battery preconditioning recommended

Winter Tips:

  • • Precondition while plugged in
  • • Park in heated garage when possible
  • • Use seat heaters instead of cabin heat

BMW i3 Charging Tips

Optimal Charging Strategy

Charge to 80% for daily use, 100% only for longer trips. The i3's small battery makes this less critical than larger EVs.

Range Extender (REx) Models

REx models have a small gas engine backup. Still charge the battery fully for maximum efficiency and minimal emissions.

Charging Port Location

The i3's charging port is on the right rear quarter panel. Plan parking accordingly at charging stations.

BMW ConnectedDrive

Use the BMW app to monitor charging status, precondition the cabin, and find nearby charging stations.

Related BMW i3 Guides

Calculate Your BMW i3 Charging Time

Get precise charging times based on your current battery level and charging setup.

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