A few months ago it was rumored that BMW’s i->ke3915 sub-brand was facing some difficulties. Apparently, things must have smoothed out a little, as at the 2012 Los Angeles Auto Show BMW will expand its "i" lineup with the addition of a all-new i3 Coupe Concept. To no one’s surprise, this new concept will feature the same carbon-fiber-reinforced-plastic (CFRP) body as the previously announced concepts and under the hood you will find an electric motor with some pretty stout numbers.

The new i3 Concept Coupe sit atop the same platform as the standard i3, but it adds a gracefully flowing roofline and a fresh interpretation of the BMW i "stream flow" design. Exterior updates include a modified front fascia, restyled doors and new side skirts and for the rear new tailgate and a revised bumper.

So, is this new coupe version of the i3 worth all of the hype that will certainly surround it, or is this just another gimmick to drive up interest in the i sub-brand?

UPDATE 12/13/12: BMW has released a new driving video of the i3 Concept Coupe as it takes to the streets in what looks like downtown LA. Click on the photo above to check out the vid!

Hit the jump to read more about the 2013 BMW i3 Concept Coupe and find out.

2013 BMW i3 Concept Coupe

Specifications
  • Make: Array
  • Model: 2013 BMW i3 Concept Coupe
  • Horsepower: 170
  • Transmission: Single-speed, direct-drive
  • [do not use] Vehicle Model: Array
Pros
Cons

Exterior

The new i3 Coupe Concept features construction defined by the same LifeDrive architecture as the standard i3 Concept. In order to make it translate into a hatchback coupe, BMW had to make some mild revisions.

The concept’s front apron is redesigned so it creates an air-curtain effect that ensures a better motor cooling. On the backside, the apron now incorporates a diffuser component that helps optimize airflow.

The concept’s windscreen is steeply raked and it now extends a long way forward. The doors have received a refresh, as did the side windows and side-view mirrors. The concept sits on a set of 20-inch light-alloy wheels in a double-spoke format and wrapped in low-rolling-resistance tires, measuring 155/60R20 on the front and 175/55R20 on the rear.

The new i3 Coupe Concept is painted a combination of Solar Orange metallic and high-gloss black. Solar Orange covers the bodywork panels around the wheel arches, the doors and the rear sidewalls, and high-gloss black coats the hood, roof, rear hatch lid and the body’s lower edge. For the BMW kidney grille and the sill lines along the sides, the concept features the usual Frozen Grey matte paint.

The i3 Coupe Concept measures in at 3,964 mm (156.1 inches) long, 1,768 mm (69.6 inches) wide, 1,555 mm (61.2 inches) high and has a 2,570 mm (101.2-inch) wheelbase.

Exterior Specifications:

Dimensions (LxWxH)

156.1 in. x 69.6 in. x 61.2 in.

Wheelbase

101.2 inches

Curb Weight

TBD


Interior

According to BMW, the i3 Coupe Concept’s interior is getting a step closer to looking like its final production design. The interior includes a mixture of leather, wood, wool and other renewable raw materials. BMW redesigned the steering column and it now features a combination of light-gray for the supporting elements and black for the controls.

The iDrive menu has also been updated so that the control buttons are on the center console, between the driver and front passenger.

The concept’s front seats are upholstered in a blend of warm-toned textured wool yarn and a monofilament material. In the rear, BMW has opted for two individual seats upholstered in leather and curved outwards prominently to form a seamless connection with the rear paneling.

The concept has two top-class displays that help the exchange of information between the vehicle and driver. This info is displayed on a 6.5-inch screen positioned on the steering column. The second display is positioned in the center of the dashboard, so the driver can easily see it.

Powertrain

Powertrain

Just like with the standard i3 Concept, the new Coupe version is powered by an electric motor that develops 170 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque. The electric motor gets is power from a lithium-ion battery that ensure a 100-mile range, per BMW’s estimates. Power is sent to the rear wheels via a single-speed, direct-drive transmission.

The driver can select from three different driving modes: “Comfort,” “Eco Pro” and “Eco Pro+.” The first mode will ensure you enjoy the sportiness and comfort of the BMW i3 Concept Coupe, but if you want an extended range, the “Eco Pro” mode can increase the i3’s total driving range by up to 20 percent. In “Eco Pro+” mode, the driving range is pushed even further, but it can only be used at speeds of up to 56 mph.

Drivetrain Specifications

Motor Power

170 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque

Range

100 miles (BMW estimate)

Transmission

Single-speed, direct-drive


When can I drive one?

When can I drive one?

BMW did not announced if the new i3 Coupe Concept will be put into production, but its design elements will inspire the production version of the standard i3.