Switch to a new kind of drive with BMW’s first all-electrical mass produced vehicle, the BMW i3. The BMW i3 as an electrical car means great news for global warming as it’s been named the Green Car of the Year for its zero emissions. It has a lightweight design and the high percentage of sustainably produced materials used in its manufacture.
Also being that its battery operated the i3’s electric motor is powered by a supercharged lithium-ion battery with a usable energy capacity of 18,8kWh
With its futuristic exteriorthe i3 has adifferent enough aesthetic to get you noticed. But it’s more of a show car considering its price range of nearly half a million and that it’s one of those vehicles you need not drive too far in. Also despite it being electrical it doesn’t really provide relief of the rising petrol price, as there are currently two main ways the car is charged.
At selected BMW dealerships, which have rapid-charge stations that “refuel” the batteries with direct-current power, getting you an 80% charge in 25 minutes. Alternatively, owners can recharge at home much more slowly using grid power from Eskom and the home charging station costs a further R30 000.
The cardefinitely comes packing a luxury punch on four wheels with a whole lot of other features, which some you have to pay for such as a range extender option that comes at a premium of R70 000 over the base unit. This option offers a two-cylinder petrol engine that develops 28kW, maintains a minimum charge level and boosts the vehicle’s range to around 300km.
Not forgetting the option of the concierge service at a cost of R3 200 extra for three years. Is used to find places of interest such as restaurants or hotels and also allow you to access flight schedules in planning a journey.
If you’ve got pockets deep enough why not go for it.