Estimated realistic range of the BMW i3 120Ah over ten years at typical UK mileage, against the usual 70% capacity warranty floor.
What degradation looks like on a BMW i3 120Ah
From a realistic 160 miles when new, a typical BMW i3 120Ah still manages about 144 miles at 5 years (90% health), 136 miles at 8 years (85%) and 130 miles at 10 years (81%).
The first year usually shows the biggest single drop as the pack settles, after which the fade slows to a crawl. Batteries almost never fail outright; they just gradually carry a little less.
Most manufacturers warrant the battery for 8 years or 100,000 miles against falling below about 70% capacity. On this car, 70% health still means around 110 miles of realistic range.
Habits that keep the battery healthy
- Charge to 80% for daily use and save 100% for long trips
- Avoid leaving the car parked for weeks at 100% or near empty
- Use AC charging for routine and rapid charging for journeys
- Do not fear normal use: the management system protects the pack far better than folklore suggests
If you are looking at a used BMW i3 120Ah, an EV specialist can read the exact state of health from the battery management system. It is the single most valuable check on a used electric car, and it turns this page's estimate into a measured fact.
Related on The EV Pros
BMW i3 120Ah servicing near you
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