The BMW i3 is a purpose-built electric car with rear-wheel drive and seating for four. Constructed of carbon fiber-reinforced plastic and aluminum to save weight, the i3’s electric drivetrain gives it a range of 81 miles, according to the EPA, and it can be recharged in 3.5 hours on a Level 2 system, which is available at many charging stations.
To address the range anxiety associated with electric cars, BMW offers an available two-cylinder gas engine for the i3. The engine doesn’t drive the wheels but rather charges the lithium-ion battery to extend the i3’s range to 150 miles total, according to the EPA.
Competitors include the Nissan Leaf, Fiat 500e, Kia Soul Electric, Volkswagen e-Golf and Chevrolet Volt. New for 2016 BMW is offering a 50-unit run of the i3 Shadow Sport Edition that has black exterior paint, a moonroof, a sport suspension and 19-inch wheels. Significant Standard Features
170-horsepower electric motor
22-kilowatt-hour lithium-ion battery pack
3.5-hour charging time on Level 2; DC fast charge provides an 80-percent charge in less than 20 minutes
Traditional front doors and rear-hinged back doors
LED headlights and taillights
Automatic air conditioning
Tilt/telescoping steering wheel
Heated front seats
50/50-split folding backseat
Navigation system
Required in every new car: front airbags, antilock brakes and an electronic stability system
