BMW Introduces two new Electric Models

Aug 3 2011

BMW has announced the launch of two new electric models – a move that is likely to be welcomed by many middle income auto loan buyers.  The move forms part of the company’s plans to strengthen its “l” sub-brand.

The BMW i3 concept car has been designed with the urban road user in mind.  It develops an impressive 125kW and the maximum torque of 250Nm is not too shabby either.  The range of 93 miles could have been better, but seeing that the car is aimed at city users, this should be sufficient to meet the needs of most people.

The carbon passenger cell combines optimum interior space utilisation with low weight and high crash safety levels.  Provisional calculations show that lifecycle emissions for the car will be at least 33% lower than that of a similar internal combustion engine.  If one takes into account that the car runs on electricity generated from renewable resources, this figure is more likely to be 50%.

As is normal with electric cars, the i3 has a single speed gearbox.  Top speed is reported to be 93 miles per hour and acceleration time from 0-62 miles per hour is less than eight seconds.

The second car in the range, the BMW i8, is a hybrid that offers a system output of 260kW.  In all-electric mode it only has a range of 22 miles before it switches back to the internal combustion engine again.  The car’s acceleration time from 0-62 mph is less than five seconds and its fuel consumption will on average be about 78 miles per gallon.

Author - Louise Hutchinson

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