BMW EV: 'Game-changing' i3 arrives
Date:
22 August 2013
The entry-level i3 is obviously zero-emission, while the range-extender has a figure of 13g/km, making it the lowest-emitting car on sale that doesn't have zero tailpipe emissions. The range quote of 80-100 miles is based on the real-world testing of those vehicles, and can be increased by using the Eco Pro or Eco Pro+ modes, each adding around another 15% to the range by maximising the efficiency of, for example, throttle response and climate control.
"It's quite a game-changer, particularly from a low-emission perspective, with all of the benefits for fleets meeting emissions targets and company car drivers, and it's also the sort of car people want to drive," BMW UK general manager, marketing David Cantle told BusinessCar. "It's a proper BMW with dynamic handling, and it's fun to drive. I think it will fit the bill for fleets and company car drivers."
Built using carbon-fibre technology never before seen on volume productions cars, the i3 is also built in a factory using solely wind power, adding to the sustainability equation. The lightweight construction helps the i3 achieve a 7.3-second 0-62mph figure, and is also claimed to help the car handle well.
Although Cantle said volumes haven't yet been set for 2014, he expected it to be led by demand initially: "It's an immature market but we think it's a game-changer, and will attract more people to electric vehicles. It won't change everything overnight - combustion engines will still be very important - but it's here."
BMW's worldwide sales and marketing chief Ian Robertson said: "We will be a significant player in this market. We're not in it to be a niche player, and we'll make a profit on each car."
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