i3 will be inspired by BMW Formula E car

The new BMW Formula E race car will help the German automaker create the next generation of electric vehicles.

The next BMW i3 electric car will be based on their new Formula E racing car.

If you haven't heard of Formula E yet, it's because it's not yet particularly popular here in the US, but it's growing in popularity in the Middle East, Europe and Asia. As the name suggests, this is an all-electric racing division where drivers pilot specially built battery-powered racing cars that look like Formula XNUMX cars, only a little more crazy.

BMW recently announced its participation in Formula E with an all-new driver who looks out of this world. He is dressed in the standard blue, white and black livery we've seen on most BMW racing teams, which looks amazing, overlaying the futuristic lines of the Formula E bogie.

Because Formula E will be about fun and hype, BMW says it's also set to develop the next generation of electric road cars. Sources speaking to Top gear BMW is said to have plans to use the new Formula E powertrain in the next generation of i3 electric city cars.

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It actually makes a lot of sense when you look at their explanation. The same team that worked on the current generation of the i3 also worked on the Formula E racer. They also say that the i3 is currently slightly underpowered at 170bhp, but will get double that once it gets a redesigned powertrain.

The Formula E car makes around 335bhp, which is close enough to be easily adapted to a smaller chassis like the i3.

If 335 hp not too much for a race car, keep in mind that the Formula E cart is extremely light: around 1,750 pounds to be exact. These 335 horses can go a long way when all they need to carry is a battery, a driver and a bunch of carbon fiber made to look like a colorful stealth fighter.

We're hoping the new i3 gets more than just a Formula E driver's powertrain. Maybe it could take a few aero elements as well. This double rear spoiler looks especially attractive and will probably work wonders on a hatchback.

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