The BMW i3, a pioneer in the electric vehicle market, debuted in 2013 and quickly became a favorite for its innovative design and eco-friendly approach. However, one of the initial drawbacks was its limited range, especially when compared to today’s EV standards. The earliest models came equipped with an 18.2 kWh battery pack, which, while sufficient for short commutes, left many drivers desiring more flexibility for longer journeys. This original battery, known as the “60” due to its 60 amp-hour capacity, provided an EPA-rated range of just 81 miles. As time passed, BMW recognized the need for improvement and introduced upgraded battery options, including a 94 Ah battery that extended the range to 114 miles, and later a 120 Ah battery, pushing the EPA-rated range to 153 miles. Despite these advancements, early adopters of the i3 with the original 60 Ah battery often find themselves at a disadvantage, particularly as battery degradation reduces their usable range. Many of these vehicles now struggle to achieve even 70 miles on a full charge, making longer trips a challenge. Fortunately, there’s a promising solution on the horizon.
Enter Martigi Manufacturing (MTG), a Chinese company that’s stepping up to address the range limitations of older BMW i3 models. MTG claims to have developed a battery pack that can effectively double the driving range of the original 60 Ah i3. This isn’t just a replacement; it’s a significant upgrade compatible with all i3 versions, even surpassing the capabilities of the largest factory-installed pack. The secret to MTG’s enhanced battery lies in its use of high-density Nickel Cobalt Manganese (NCM) cells, sourced from CATL, a leading Chinese battery manufacturer. These cells are designed to fit seamlessly into the original battery cradle, replacing the Samsung-made cells. While maintaining the same pack configuration and rated voltage, the energy capacity is substantially increased. Specifically, the MTG battery pack consists of 96 cells arranged in eight modules, boasting a total capacity of 154 Ah or 54 kWh. This represents a remarkable 156% increase in capacity compared to the original 60 Ah pack and a 28% increase over the largest original pack. This BMW i3 battery upgrade promises to breathe new life into older models, making them more practical for modern driving needs.
MTG, as the sole approved seller of this upgraded battery, collaborates with Echi Tech to provide a comprehensive solution. This includes a reflashed battery management system (BMS), new electrical connectors, and all the necessary hardware for a smooth cell replacement. While a DIY installation is technically possible, MTG strongly recommends entrusting the upgrade to a qualified service provider to ensure safety and optimal performance. According to MTG, the CATL pack is capable of delivering a driving range of 248 miles on a full charge. In a real-world test showcased in an MTG video, an i3 equipped with the upgraded pack achieved 186 miles on the highway while maintaining a speed of 62 mph. Impressively, the new pack retains the original charging capabilities, allowing it to accept up to 50 kW from a DC fast charger.
| Battery Type | Capacity | Estimated Range | Price (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Original 60 Ah | 18.2 kWh | 81 miles | N/A |
| MTG 154 Ah | 54 kWh | 248 miles (claimed) | $5,800 (excl. shipping) |
| MTG 120 Ah | N/A | N/A | $4,800 (excl. shipping) |
The 154 Ah pack is listed on Alibaba for $5,800, excluding shipping costs. A 120 Ah version, designed as a direct replacement for the original 120 Ah pack, is also available for $4,800. MTG provides a three-year warranty with the new modules, rated for 2,000 charge and discharge cycles. However, the enforceability of this warranty in regions like the United States remains uncertain. It’s worth noting that a replacement battery pack sourced directly from BMW can cost around $15,000 before labor charges. Even with potentially high shipping fees for the MTG pack, the overall cost is likely to be significantly lower than opting for a BMW-sourced replacement. This makes the MTG battery upgrade a compelling option for BMW i3 owners looking to extend the life and range of their vehicles economically.
