BMW i3s 94 Ah EV charger: Which one is the best fit?
The BMW i3s 94 Ah charges at home at a maximum AC charging power of 11 kW using three phases and a Type 2 connection. An 11 kW EV charger is therefore the logical choice because it allows the car to use its full AC charging capacity. To compare the different versions first, view our overview of the BMW i3 or all BMW EV chargers at Wallbox Discounter.
For the BMW i3s 94 Ah, we recommend an EV charger from our range of 11 kW EV chargers.
Charging specifications of the BMW i3s 94 Ah
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Battery capacity | 33.2 kWh gross, approx. 27.2 kWh usable |
| Maximum AC charging power at home | 11 kW, three-phase |
| Real-world range | approx. 160 km |
| Charging time with an 11 kW EV charger | approx. 3 to 3.5 hours |
| Charging connector | Type 2 |
| DC fast charging | CCS, up to approx. 50 kW |
Which EV charger is suitable for the BMW i3s 94 Ah?
The BMW i3s 94 Ah charges using three phases at a maximum of 11 kW. A three-phase 11 kW EV charger is therefore the best match: it allows the car to use its maximum AC charging capacity without providing unnecessary additional power. A 22 kW charger can also be used but will not charge the i3s any faster because the onboard charger limits the power to 11 kW. Choose a charger with an integrated MID meter when the charged kilowatt-hours must be reimbursed by an employer or leasing company. In the Netherlands, a MID meter may also be required for ERE registration. The ERE scheme applies exclusively in the Netherlands.
| Situation | Recommended EV charger | MID meter | Why? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard home charging | Easee Charge Up 22 kW | No | A compact and intelligent EV charger that automatically supplies the BMW i3s with its maximum charging power of 11 kW. It can be expanded with dynamic load balancing but does not have an integrated MID meter. |
| Business use or ERE registration in the Netherlands | Zaptec Go 2 22 kW | Yes | The integrated MID meter accurately and verifiably records the charged kilowatt-hours. This makes the charger suitable for employer or leasing-company reimbursement and, exclusively in the Netherlands, ERE registration. |
| Budget-friendly choice | Besen 11 kW | No | An affordable 11 kW EV charger that is technically well matched to the BMW i3s. It does not have a MID meter and is therefore less suitable for certified reimbursement or ERE registration. |
View all 11 kW EV chargers in our range. The i3s uses a Type 2 connection. To charge at a public charging station with a socket, you need a suitable Type 2 charging cable.
How long does it take to charge the BMW i3s 94 Ah?
With a usable battery capacity of approximately 27.2 kWh, a complete charging session at 11 kW theoretically takes around 2.5 hours. When the charging curve and normal charging losses are taken into account, you should allow approximately 3 to 3.5 hours in practice. An EV charger rated above 11 kW will not reduce the charging time because the BMW’s onboard charger determines the maximum AC charging power.
Other versions of the BMW i3
Wallbox Discounter also provides charging information for the other versions of the BMW i3:
- BMW i3 60 Ah, the first model with a smaller battery
- BMW i3 94 Ah, the regular version of this generation
- BMW i3s 120 Ah, the later version with a larger battery
Frequently asked questions
Does the BMW i3s 94 Ah require a three-phase connection?
Yes, if you want to use the maximum AC charging power of 11 kW. This requires a three-phase connection rated at 3 × 16 amps. The car charges more slowly on a single-phase connection. A 22 kW EV charger can also be used but provides no charging-speed advantage for this vehicle.
Why is a MID meter important for the BMW i3s 94 Ah?
A MID-certified kWh meter accurately and verifiably records charging consumption. This is particularly important when the charged kilowatt-hours are reimbursed by an employer or leasing company or accounted for as business charging costs. In the Netherlands, a MID meter may also be required for ERE registration. The ERE scheme applies exclusively in the Netherlands.
Should I have the EV charger installed professionally?
We always recommend having the connection installed by a certified electrician. This is safer and may be important for your insurance coverage. You can arrange an EV charger including installation through our regular installation partner.