Steve J drives a BMW i3S 2022 electric car.
This is Steve’s first electric car, he’s owned the BMW i3S from new and drives between 5,000-10,000 miles annually. The current mileage is between 500-1,000 miles and he achieves 150 miles range from a full charge.
Rate your BMW i3S out of 5.
Get our FREE ‘BMW i3 Guide’ e-mailed directly to your inbox
Why did you choose the BMW i3S?
We were using a diesel SUV for local trips as well as towing. Decided to do keep the SUV for towing and very long trips and go electric vehicle for probably 95% of what we drive. The i3S was chosen because of its character and the fact it is finishing production soon.
Positives – List 3 or more reasons why you love this electric car.
- Characterful looks
- quality interior
- good acceleration
- overall size of car.
Negatives – List 3 or more things that you really don’t like about this electric car.
- Strong side winds knock car around a bit
- real life 150 mile range needs planning on longer trips.
Have you experienced any faults with the car? If so, what have they been?
No faults so far, but it’s early days.
What are the standout tech features of your BMW i3S?
Love the pre-conditioning/pre-heating via BMW app. The car has tech I expect but nothing I would say is standout.
Surprise us! Tell us something people wouldn’t readily know about this BMW i3S.
You can tilt the front seats to get better rear seat access via a lever in the back of the headrest. The cars turning circle is unbelievably tight. It also helps give it a go-kart feel.
What electric car are you interested in next and why?
Something that can replace my diesel SUV and has a range of 250+ miles when towing 2,000kgs.
What home charging unit do you use? Would you recommend it to others and why?
Currently using 13A home socket to charge. It works but it’s slow. There is a wait for a dedicated home charger – that is being fitted end of April 2022. Home charging on a standard plug is ok for smaller batteries if you don’t get home late and need to leave early the following morning, needing a full range.
Rate your home charging unit out of 5.
What home electricity supplier & tariff do you use? Would you recommend it to others and why?
I have a British Gas fixed rate until November 2023. It was agreed before I purchased the EV. It works for me but if energy costs were normal, I would look for a cheaper night time rate
Rate your electricity supplier out of 5.
What public charging networks would you recommend to others and why?
Shell Recharge and bp pulse based on my experience. I would totally avoid anything on a motorway unless really needed as far too expensive.
List your top 3 favourite public charging networks (in order of preference).
- Shell Recharge
- bp pulse.
Who do you insure your electric car with? Would you recommend them to others and why?
LV – I would recommend.
Rate your insurance provider out of 5.
Estimate how much money you save per month owning and running an electric car compared to a petrol/diesel car.
£100.
See other owner reviews here
