BMW has announced it will officially unveiled its highly-anticipated i3 electric city car at an event on July 29th. The i3 will be the first car introduced under BMW’s new “i” electric vehicle sub-brand.
Developed under the codename Megacity, the i3 made its debut as a futuristic concept at the 2011 Frankfurt Motor Show. It is the first vehicle to ride on automaker’s new LifeDrive architecture, which enables it to offer a generous cabin size despite its small footprint.
BMW describes the i3’s interior – which seats four – as “lounge-like”, thanks to the use of natural fibers and naturally tanned leathers. The i3 features opposing coach doors and dual cargo compartments, ensuring that it is useful as an everyday driver.
Power for the i3 is provided by an electric motor driving the rear axle. The i3 boasts 170 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque which, when combined with the i3’s superlight weight, results in a 0-60 run of under 8 seconds.
BMW hasn’t detailed the i3’s battery, but says the city car can “travel long distances on a single charge.” To quell range anxiety, the battery-powered city car will be offered with an optional two-cylinder internal combustion range extender.
Given the i3’s target market, innovative technology is a big part of its package, with the EV featuring a number of smartphone functions. 
Some of the car’s technologies include the ability to find nearby charging stations and a smartphone app to precondition the vehicle at the touch of a button. BMW has also hinted that the i3 will be capable of some form of autonomous driving.
Look for the BMW i3 to make its first public appears at this fall’s Frankfurt Motor Show before beginning regular production later this year.