After attending the launch event for the BMWi3 back in the autumn, I was super excited to get my hands on the real deal and road test the latest electric car to hit the market.
BMWi3, the German car manufacturing company’s first fully-electric and multiple award-winning car, has just been released for sale in the UK. It starts at £25,380 when factoring in the government’s £5,000 grant for electric vehicles.
Undoubtedly, the BMWi3 is a striking and interestingly-designed car. Boxy and upright, its unusually large front doors and flip open rear-opening back doors make it truly unique.
BMWi3 is definitely male; handsome, strong and sturdy. And boy, does he grab attention! Countless people stopped me to ask about it, pedestrians gawped from the kerbs, while other drivers frequently slowed down to take a good gander.
The interior is suitably funky, mixing a high-tech look with natural materials all made from renewable resources; a rather delightful and thoughtful combination.
And it feels big. Very spacious indeed thanks to the omission of door pillars, a super flat floor and raised seating position, which I’ve discovered is also drolly known as the ‘semi-command’ position. There’s plenty of head and leg room and the seats offer support and comfort. This all means that a family can comfortably fit into it and it can also hold a serious amount of shopping too.
As expected, the BMWi3 is jam-packed with an endless array of super-clever technical treats. Daunting for me I’ll admit, but undoubtedly handy stuff. And if it really does prove too tricky, the in-house BMW Genius team are on stand-by to show you the way.
Among others, it comes equipped with blue tooth, a digital radio, sat nav, and three driving mode options (comfort, eco pro, and eco pro+) to set its responses to your intended trip and driving style.
It’s not dull to drive – it definitely burns rubber. It darts off like a silent rocket, faster than the BMW’s sporty M3, and its battery regenerative system slows the car rather fiercely when you lift off the accelerator. And while its handling was a little choppy at times, overall it was a splendid ride.
The BMWi3’s range is similar to other electric cars, around 80 to 100 miles, so the pesky range anxiety did rear its head. I got down to just one mile before finding a charging point. While it was a rather fretful experience it highlighted to me that my planning ahead skills desperately need honing.
I joyfully note, however, that it comes complete with a mains power lead so charging overnight at home is a welcome option.
The BMW i3 is definitely one of my favourite electric cars available to date. It’s good looking, luxurious, practical and lovely to drive. And while progress on range obviously needs to continue I would go so far as to say I’ve experienced electric car nirvana.
For more information about the BMWi3 tweet Andygclark or visit www.lloydnewcastlebmw.co.uk
I’m all over the BMWi3
Jennifer Clair Robson 