What name would you like to appear in this feature?
Neil (@iroadtrip)
What is the make and model of your current electric car?
I have a BMW i3 120Ah registered new in September 2021. It has the i3 Pro Pack and Comfort Pack fitted as well as the Loft Interior.
What year was your car registered?
September 2021 (71).
How long have you owned your electric car?
I’ve had this for 6 months and it is my first EV.
What is your estimated annual mileage?
I do about 10k per annum.
What is the mileage on your electric car?
Currently I’ve done 4,500.
How many electric cars have you owned?
This is my first EV.
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What got you into an electric car in the first place?
Prior to this, I had a BMW 520d with mild hybrid tech which was a superb car and surprisingly economical but with the rising cost of fuel and ownership I decided to take a radical change of course for the i3. I have a great relationship with my local BMW dealer so another brand wasn’t on the cards so after they lent me an i3 for the day, I was literally hooked. It instantly put a smile on my face!
Initially, what did you find most confusing about electric car ownership and how did you solve that?
The transition was quite easy. I think the biggest fear was worrying about range and how rapid chargers worked and their availability. I also worried a little about suitable charging but all this was solved by just trying fast chargers and selecting the best charging option for me.
What sources of information helped you e.g. people, groups, websites etc?
Twitter seems to have a good EV community which has been helpful in the main and by searching lots of websites and gaining a consensus about what were the right things to try.
What events would you recommend attending to learn more about electric cars?
I’ve not really thought about this but will keep an eye out for some near me.
What needs to happen to get more people driving an EV?
Better understanding of range anxiety. I certainly did have but quickly realised that if you have a solution and also plan longer journeys using Zap-Map or similar, driving an EV over longer distances is in fact an easy and a more relaxed experience. I also feel that more people will be tempted when vehicle purchase prices are lower and there is more choice. Everyone I’ve taken for a drive in my i3 thinks it’s amazing!
Who is your electric car hero/guru and why?
Me, for even getting one in the first place as I was a massive petrolhead!! Lol!!
What are your top 3 pieces of advice for those people considering their first electric car?
1. Consider running costs as a complete package. The car may be more expensive initially but it may be possible to save so much, it repays that additional cost over time.
2. Shop around for a good deal, they are out there.
3. Think about your mileage/journeys and be prepared to plan. It’s easy once you are used to it!
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