A Fresh Take on the BMW i3 by AC Schnitzer: Bridging the Gap between Sustainability and Sportiness
It used to be that BMW i3 owners were faced with a conundrum - an environmentally friendly ride without the allure of sporty aesthetics. That landscape has dramatically shifted, with AC Schnitzer, the respected Aachen tuning house, introducing their comprehensive tuning program for the BMW i3 models. What we see is a seamless blend of visual upgrades and tangible improvements in driving dynamics that instill a much-awaited flair of athleticism to the otherwise subdued electric city car.
Lowered and Stable: A More Grounded Drive Experience
A significant piece of the tuning package lies in AC Schnitzer's suspension spring kit. The kit brings the i3 models conspicuously closer to the ground, with a lowering of up to 20mm. This serves a dual purpose: it allows for greater energy conversion in curves and lowers the vehicle's centre of gravity. The result? A driving experience that feels more balanced, responsive, and in touch with the road.
Wheel Spacers: A Subtle Touch with Notable Impact
Complementing the lowered suspension are matching wheel spacers. This addition doesn’t necessitate ditching the standard wheels, but cleverly pushes them 12 mm further out on each side. The resultant widened stance enhances lateral support and promotes driving stability. A side benefit of this upgrade is a visibly more commanding and sporty posture for the i3.
Sleek Aerodynamics: Melding Form and Function
AC Schnitzer's attention to detail goes beyond the vehicle's mechanics. Their aerodynamics kit adds an aesthetically pleasing front splitter and a roof rear wing to the i3. The high-quality ASA material front splitter connects to the standard front apron with three shiny black painted adapters. The glossy black roof rear wing resonates with the splitter, presenting a cohesive, refined look. These elements not only elevate the car's aesthetic appeal but also improve downforce on both the front and rear, enhancing its aerodynamic efficiency.
Interior Tweaks: Refined Touches for an Elevated Driving Experience
The tuning is not just skin-deep. The i3's interior has been thoughtfully updated with high-quality aluminium accents on the pedals and a "Black Line" cover for the iDrive System Controller. These may be subtle modifications, but they add a layer of sophistication to the driving experience, aligning with AC Schnitzer's dedication to creating a comprehensive tuning package.
Reflecting on the Revamped BMW i3
In a nutshell, AC Schnitzer's tuning program for the BMW i3 models is not merely about injecting sporty aesthetics into the green-minded city car. It’s about bringing out the untapped potential of the i3 in terms of driving dynamics, stability, and overall responsiveness, all without betraying the vehicle's core ethos of sustainability. In a market where electric vehicles are too often seen as utilitarian, it's refreshing to witness an amalgamation of innovation, practicality, and flair. It's a bold statement that confirms driving electric need not be a compromise on performance or style.
-Ed
2019 AC Schnitzer BMW i3
