The BMW i3 is BMW's first modern electric car. Powering all models is a 170-horsepower electric motor connected to the rear wheels via a single-speed transmission. While no one will ever confuse the i3 with a sports car, 170 horsepower is enough to give the i3 brisk acceleration, especially when its 184 foot pounds of torque are accounted for. BMW claims 0?60 mph in 7.2 seconds. Rear-wheel drive prevents all that torque from causing unwanted torque steer, while also ensuring that the i3 lives up to BMW's high standards for vehicle dynamics and handling. The i3 may be a departure from traditional BMW aesthetics and design, but it is still offers the automaker's enthusiasm for performance and style.
BMW claims that the i3 has an electric-only range of about 80?100 miles in normal everyday driving, which should be plenty for most people's daily commute. The car's charging times are remarkably short; BMW claims a scant 30 minutes are needed to charge the car up to 80 percent capacity through the standard DC fast-charging system. Even at home, on a conventional 220V charger, the i3 only needs about three hours to get from empty to a full charge. For those who desire a bit more range, BMW offers a range extender -- a small 2-cylinder gasoline engine that functions as a generator. With the range extender, the i3 can travel about 180 miles until it needs a gas or charging station.
The cabin is accessed through a combination of traditional front doors and rear-hinged rear doors. Inside, the i3 uses a variety of materials available in several different color combinations, with trim packages named things like "Loft," "Lodge," and "Suite." All of it looks relatively expensive but many of the materials are renewable, sewn from hemp, kinaff and other unconventional plant fibers. More traditional materials are available as well, if desired.
Standard equipment on the i3 is plentiful, including BMW's iDrive system, an integrated SIM card, Bluetooth and USB connectivity, heated front seats, plus rear mounted parking sensors and a stationary climate control system. Options include a navigation system that is smart enough to interact with the car and suggest alternate routes based on battery charge, adaptive LED headlights, a glass roof, automatic climate control, a rearview camera and several driver assistance functions.
Small Footprint
Electric Drivetrain
Efficient Usage Of Space
Good Driving Dynamics
Full Of Cutting-edge Technology
For 2015, the electric BMW i3 features standard heated front seats, satellite radio and DC fast-charging capability.
The BMW i3 is part of the new wave of electric and hybrid cars that are becoming more and more popular in the U.S. The i3 has relatively compact external dimensions, but still has a very usable cabin with surprising amounts of interior space. Standard equipment levels are high and the i3 generally aims to compete in the compact premium segment, offering buyers plenty of luxury features in a car that is perhaps a little smaller than the traditional luxury cars of old.
Of course, the electric drivetrain is what really separates the i3 from its competitors. In standard form, it offers a combination of usable range and remarkably fast charging times. With the optional range extender equipped, the system offers functionality similar to other hybrid cars on the market such as the Chevrolet Volt- the i3 uses its range extending gasoline engine exclusively as a generator, providing electric power to the rear wheel motors. The i3 base price starts at under $43,000, while versions equipped with a range extender start at around $46,000.
