BMW has launched its new i3 electric sedan in France, offering a competitive price and extended range compared to traditional thermal (gasoline) and hybrid vehicles. The i3 50 xDrive variant, part of the First Edition launch series, is priced at 74,850 euros, with deliveries expected in September 2026. The base models, i3 40 xDrive and i3 50 xDrive, will be available starting in autumn 2026. The i3 40 xDrive features an 82.6 kWh battery, providing up to 710 km of range in the WLTP (World Light Duty Vehicle Test Procedure) cycle, while the i3 50 xDrive includes a larger 108.7 kWh battery, offering up to 912 km of range. BMW notes that the 50 xDrive's range is provisional, with the First Edition version showing between 758 and 906 km. The i3 40 xDrive has a combined power of 374 horsepower, achieving 0 to 100 km/h in 5.4 seconds. The i3 50 xDrive has a higher power of 469 horsepower, achieving 0 to 100 km/h in 4.7 seconds. Both versions benefit from an 800-volt architecture, allowing a 10 to 80% charge in 21 minutes. The i3 40 xDrive has a charging power of 300 kW, while the i3 50 xDrive reaches 400 kW, enabling faster recharging times. In comparison to the thermal Série 3, the i3 40 xDrive is priced at 59,900 euros, while the thermal 320 is priced at 55,450 euros. However, the thermal model incurs a malus (a tax penalty for high-emission vehicles) of between 5,344 and 7,275 euros, making its total cost at least 60,800 euros, which is more than the i3 40 xDrive. The BMW M350 xDrive, a thermal variant, is priced at 78,250 euros, compared to 65,400 euros for the i3 50 xDrive, with the latter also benefiting from a lower malus. The i3 features two motors: a synchronous motor at the rear and an asynchronous motor at the front. The rear motor uses electric excitation, allowing for adjustable magnetic field intensity, while the front asynchronous motor requires a "slip" to produce torque. The Gen6 propulsion system combines these technologies to improve efficiency and reduce losses by 40%, with a 10% weight reduction and 20% lower costs compared to previous configurations. The i3's pricing and features make it more economical than its thermal counterpart, with lower maintenance costs and immunity to fuel price fluctuations. In France, the i3's range and price position it as a strong competitor, though the Lucid Air Grand Touring offers a slightly higher range of 960 km at a significantly higher price. The i3's expanded range, including the 40 xDrive, is expected to open for orders this autumn.