John Gibson drives a BMW i4 81.3kWh 2024.
This is John’s first electric car, he’s owned the BMW i4 1-2 years and drives 5,000-10,000 miles annually. The current mileage of the car is between 15,000-20,000 miles and he achieves 200 miles range in the summer and 170 in the winter, from an 80% charge. John added 20″ alloys, the Driving Assistance package, HUD & HK Sound.
Why did you choose this car?
Better range than the more powerful BMWs, got a free charger install and I liked the hatchback and 4 doors. Very quiet and comfortable, no slouch at the traffic lights, either!
Positives
The outline of the car, aesthetically very easy on the eye!
Negatives
The charging is a bit confusing, it asks for the departure time and sometimes alters my settings, infuriating!
Compared to when you first bought the car, does your battery still charge at the same rate & do you still get the same range?
No degradation that I’ve noticed, still the same as when new.
Have you experienced any faults with the car? If so, what have they been?
None whatsoever!
What are the standout technological features of the car?
The reversing assistant is brilliant, it shows a GPS picture of your parking space.
Tell us something people wouldn’t readily know about your i4
Again, the parking assistance.
What electric car(s) are you interested in next and why?
Probably the VW ID. Buzz, decent range and very practical now I’ve retired.
Home charging unit
Pod Point
Electricity supplier & tariff
Octopus Energy – best supplier around, nothing to dislike.
What public charging networks would you recommend to others and why?
I found charging in Northern Ireland to be cheaper than the mainland. InstaVolt are very expensive, a company called Weev were significantly cheaper.
Insurance
Admiral – on a multi car policy.
Please itemise where you’re saving money (or not) owning & running a BMW i4
Yes, I did save quite a lot when I was working, approx. £30-40 per week, although my previous car was an M240i which was a thirsty beast!
