Andy drives a BMW i3 120Ah 42.2kWh 2019 electric car.
This is Andy’s first electric car, he’s owned the BMW i3 under 1 year and drives 10,000-15,000 miles annually. The current mileage of the car is between 10,000-20,000 miles and he achieves 160 miles range from a full charge.
Why did you choose the BMW i3?
We didn’t want a large car and the BMW i3 was the best compromise between city car and the greater range of large cars. This is due to it’s unique carbon reinforced plastic/aluminium construction which makes it over 200kg lighter than the smaller Renault Zoe. The interior is a delightfully light place to be even on dull, dismal days, the exterior is a bit marmite ‘love or hate’ it, we love its (still) fresh, futuristic looks. The performance and range are excellent, a recent trip to the East Coast from West Yorkshire saw us achieve 173 miles with 14%/24 miles remaining.
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Positives – List 3 or more reasons why you love this electric car
- Build quality
- range
- looks.
Negatives – List 3 or more things that you really don’t like about this electric car
- Charge port cap dangling on paintwork.
Have you experienced any faults with the car? If so, what have they been?
None
What are the standout technological features of the car?
The car was designed purely as an EV with aluminium chassis for the batteries and running gear with a carbon reinforced passenger cell. The battery management is second to none ensuring a long life and optimal performance. The interior and many other parts of the car are made from recyclable materials or sourced as ethically as possible according to BMW. The factory in Leipzig is one of the most modern and sustainable car factories in the world.
Surprise us! Tell us something people wouldn’t readily know about this electric car
The rear ‘suicide’ doors were a design feature to remove the need for a B post and therefore reducing weight.
What electric car(s) are you interested in next and why?
We are looking at keeping the BMW i3 as long as possible because there is no direct replacement on the market.
Home charging unit – outline both positive & negative elements
The Pod Point 7kW generally gets our i3 up to 100% in around 4 1/2 hours.
Electricity supplier & tariff – outline both positive & negative elements
We are on a fixed rate until March 2023 so we aren’t looking forward to the rise from our current 18p per kWh.
What public charging networks would you recommend to others and why?
We only use public chargers on really long trips and have found Gridserve and Osprey very good.
Insurer – outline both positive & negative elements
Insuring the i3 has been no different to insuring our previous car.
Itemise how much money you’re saving owning & running your BMW i3
£1,200
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