Technical Specifications
| Plug Type | Maximum Power | Battery Capacity |
| Type 2 (Mennekes) | 3.7 kW (AC) | 5.3 kWh |
Charging Capabilities and Time
The following table shows the types of charging stations and the time required for a full charge of the BMW i8.
| Charging Station Type | Power Supply | Power | Charging Time |
| Mobile Charging Device (2.3 kW) | 230V / 1x10A | 2.3 kW | 2 h 18 min |
| Single-phase 16A | 230V / 1x16A | 3.7 kW | 1 h 26 min |
| Single-phase 25A | 230V / 1x16A | 3.7 kW* | 1 h 26 min |
| Single-phase 32A | 230V / 1x16A | 3.7 kW* | 1 h 26 min |
| Three-phase 16A | 230V / 1x16A | 3.7 kW* | 1 h 26 min |
| Three-phase 25A | 230V / 1x16A | 3.7 kW* | 1 h 26 min |
| Three-phase 32A | 230V / 1x16A | 3.7 kW* | 1 h 26 min |
*Power is limited by the vehicle’s onboard charger capabilities.
Charging Cable for BMW I8
The BMW i8 uses a Type 2 (Mennekes) connector and supports single-phase charging up to 3.7 kW. You can use either a single-phase or three-phase cable – a higher-powered cable won’t increase charging speed but won’t cause any issues.
Fixed Charging Station (EV Charger)
The maximum charging power for the BMW i8 is 3.7 kW. Regardless of whether you use a charger with higher power (e.g., 7.4, 11, or 22 kW), the car will charge at up to 3.7 kW. These are the possible options:
– 3.7 kW (1 phase, 16A)
– 7.4 kW (1 phase, 32A – charges up to 3.7 kW)
– 11 kW (3 phases, 16A – charges up to 3.7 kW)
– 22 kW (3 phases, 32A – charges up to 3.7 kW)
Electrical Panel and Connection
The BMW i8 doesn’t have special electrical installation requirements since almost every electrical panel supports 16A (3.7 kW). However, if you already have a three-phase panel, it might be wise to choose an EV Charger with 11 kW power to be prepared for a future electric vehicle with higher capacity.
Portable Charging Station
Portable EV chargers are a practical and economical solution for the BMW i8. They can charge at 2.3 or 3.7 kW through a standard home outlet (220V). With a small battery capacity like this (5.3 kWh), the portable charger provides quick and efficient charging. However, make sure there are no other high-power devices on the same electrical circuit.
