BMW is giving the i3 models equipped with a range-extender a much needed software update. The i3 with the two-cylinder range extender currently suffers from an acceleration issue, which was first reported by Consumer Reports.
BMW is giving the i3 models equipped with a range-extender a much needed software update. The i3 with the two-cylinder range extender currently suffers from an acceleration issue, which was first reported by Consumer Reports.
According to Consumer Reports, when one of its drivers attempted to pass on a two-lane highway, the i3’s acceleration cut out after the battery had been depleted on a long hill. Further testing revealed that the 0-60 mph sprint went from 7.5 seconds when the battery is fully charged to an astonishing 40 seconds when the battery is depleted.
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Initially BMW programmed the i3’s software to start the 34-horsepower range extender engine when the battery’s charge level fell to six percent. The updated software will now turn the range extender on much earlier to reserve more charge in the battery. The software update will also provide more information about the battery’s charge level and the navigation system will track topographical information to reserve the battery more when driving uphill.
The software update is now available to current i3 owners.
Source: Consumer Reports
