One of the most popular brands of electric cars is BMW, due to features such as lithium-ion batteries that create a high-performance drive and long-lasting range with minimal charging time.
BMW has led the way for many innovative additions to electric cars, such as mass-producing the first car with carbon fibre reinforced plastic. The German manufacturer has also implemented fifth-generation e-Drive technology into its electric cars.
In this guide, we’ll talk you through the various aspects of the BMW electric car range, such as the range, charging times and luxury features.
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What models of electric cars does BMW sell?
BMW sells a wide range of high-performance electric vehicles that have a long-range and short charging time. Below is a comprehensive list of the electric cars that the manufacturer has to offer.
i3 and i3s
The i3 was BMW’s first electric vehicle to be released, which went into production in 2013. With an electric motor output of 125kW, the i3 can go from zero to 62 mph in approximately 7.3 seconds. It is currently priced at £33,805.
A classic in the world of electric cars, the i3 has led the way in terms of performance and driver comfort. This model includes BMW Professional Navigation, Apple Carplay and Park distance control. It’s also possible to set the temperature of the car using the iDrive or My BMW App.
There are two versions of this model available – one with an output of 125 kW and a range of 180-190 miles, whilst the other has 135 kW power and a 175 miles range. To do 62 miles (100km), the i3 can be charged in one hour and 57 minutes, whilst the i3s can be charged for the same mileage in two hours and nine minutes using a Wallbox charging station.
The i3 is better suited to inner-city driving, although it can also handle tight corners and bumps in a more rural setting. Inbuilt parking sensors can also help you navigate tricky car parks, as can the rearview camera.
iX3
This SUV is perfect for those looking for a slightly more exciting ride than the standard i3. High comfort sport seats, a panoramic sunroof and the BMW Live Cockpit Professional with a 12.3″ display are just some of the highlights of the iX3.
The iX3 contains the fifth generation of BMW eDrive technology and combines a high voltage battery with the adaptive suspension to create a luxurious and enjoyable drive. The driver assistant functions can be controlled by voice command for easy access and added safety during your journey.
With its 210 kW electric motor, the iX3 has a 285-mile range and can be charged for a 62 mile (100km) journey in 10 minutes at a high powered charging unit or 2 hours and 25 minutes at a Wallbox unit. Prices start from £60,970 for this electric vehicle.
i4
This next-level performance vehicle comes in varying models – the i4 M50, i4 eDrive40 Sport and i4 Drive40 M Sport. Prices differ across the three models, as the eDrive Sport sells for £55,345, the M Sport has an OTR price of £64,255 and the i4 M50 is the most expensive at £72,995.
i4 M50
Out of the three i4 models, the i4 M50 has the most power of 400kW (544 bhp). The all-wheel-drive vehicle can go from zero to 62 mph in 3.9 seconds and has a combined WLTP electric range of between 258 and 318 miles.
You can choose from ten colours for the exterior, as well as five shades of Vernasca leather in the interior. In addition, there is plenty of choice of colours for the trim.
i4 eDrive Sport
On a full charge, the BMW i4 eDrive Sport has a range of 359 miles and can reach 62 mph in 5.7 seconds. The engine performance is 250 kW (340 bhp) and has 0g/km CO2 emissions, according to the Worldwide Harmonised Light Vehicle Test Procedure (WLTP).
As with all BMW cars, there is a choice of customisable features to the i4 range. You can choose from are six colours for the exterior, alloy wheels, as well as a choice of leather upholstery and interior trims.
i4 eDrive40 M Sport
As with the standard eDrive40 Sport, this model has a performance of 250 kW (340 bhp), as well as a range of 347 to 365 miles which will vary depending on weather and temperature conditions, as well as the level of charge. Prices start from £63,905, which makes the M model more expensive than the standard Sport.
Some aspects of electric vehicles, such as air conditioning and heating can affect the mileage of the car as they tap into the battery’s power. However, this can be somewhat controlled by keeping an eye on cold and hot temperatures outside and storing the car in garages or in the shade to help control the interior temperature.
iX
The iX comes in four models – xDrive40 Sport/M Sport and xDrive50 Sport/M Sport. Prices vary from a starting point of £69,905 for the xDrive40 Sport to £72,905 for the M model.
For a 62 mile (100km) trip, it takes two hours and 31 minutes on a Wallbox charge to charge the xDrive50, whilst the xDrive40 takes slightly less at two hours and 28 minutes. The xDrive40 M model has an engine performance of 240kW (326 bhp), whilst the xDrive50 has a higher performance of 385 kW (523 bhp).
The xDrive50 goes from zero to 62 mph in 4.6 seconds, as well as a range of 365 to 380 miles. With slightly slower acceleration, the xDrive40 can reach 62 mph in 6.1 seconds. This model also has a range of between 246 miles and 257 miles.
BMW ethos for a Sustainable Automotive Future
BMW has committed to reducing its CO2 emissions by 2030. To achieve this goal, the manufacturing company uses water power in some of its electric car factories, as well as using a high proportion of recycled materials in the production of its electric range, such as the iX models.
Some new initiatives include growing peanut plants in the surrounding area outside of its Chinese factories. Any income that is made from the sale of the nuts is then inputted into local infrastructural projects.
Through the growing battery electric vehicle range and sale of plug-in hybrid models, BMW is also helping the wider public to cut down fuel consumption and therefore limiting the output of CO2 and other greenhouse gas emissions.
BMW Model Market reaction and Reviews
BMW models such as the iX have received a number of comments on the appearance of the vehicle since it was released. The chunky appearance of the vehicle certainly cuts an imposing figure, although the carbon fibre and aluminium construction does create a sleek finish. In addition, the kidney grilles leave no doubt that these cars are ready to make a statement.
The main focus for many potential owners is how well the BMW electric cars can perform, however. Over the past few years, the range of electric cars has steadily increased and no longer incites ‘range anxiety’ into drivers.
Electric cars in the BMW newest range contain fifth-generation eDrive, which gives the vehicles an impressive driving style. The energy consumption has significantly reduced in newer models, which is supported by the improvement of high power charging stations that can increase the charge of the battery in a short space of time.
These vehicles do see some variations in weather driving, as the mileage can reduce in colder weather whilst you have the heating on.
Upcoming models
An upcoming purely electric car that is set to be released in November 2021 is the latest i4 model. The vehicle can reach a 365-mile range, which is obtained after the battery has been fully charged.
Along with the upcoming i4, BMW is said to be launching all-electric versions of their current 5 and 7 series saloons. This is part of their plan to launch 25 electric vehicles by 2023.
BMW has often been associated with luxury and it seems that this hasn’t changed with its developing and expanding electric car range.
BMW subscriptions
There are various subscription services that offer electric vehicles for temporary ownership. Wagonex, has two BMW electric cars that you can drive as part of their subscription service. These models are the iX3 SUV and the i3 hatchback. Both vehicles offer some of the best features of a standard BMW model, combined with state-of-the-art electric car technology.
The i3 can be bought for around £33,805 brand new, but you can use the car for as little as £450 per month on a two-year subscription. Likewise, the iX3 sells for £60,970 brand new, but it can be used for two years under the subscription service at a cost of £1,299.30 per month.
BMW lease
The leasing comparison site, leaseloco.com offers various BMW electric vehicles. These include the iX3, i3, iX and BMW i4 models. There are plenty of factors to consider when choosing the right electric car for you, such as the driving styles and vehicle requirements for you and your family. As an example, for £574.99 per month and a deposit of £7,258, you can lease the i4 M50 for four years.
Conclusion
Electric cars are becoming increasingly popular, largely thanks to the reduced emissions and eco-friendly image that they have. Government grants and subsidies have been implemented over the past few years to encourage drivers to choose electric vehicles over a car with a combustion engine.
Whether you decide to get a BMW or another brand, you can use our car check to find out information on any second-hand electric car. This will save you time and money as we can give you a detailed report on the vehicle in seconds, including information on the MOT history, mileage and number of owners.
Frequently Asked Questions
Electric batteries are designed to last around 10 years, although, with proper care and maintenance, this can extend up to 20 years. There are various factors that can extend the lifespan of a battery, such as limiting charging to 80% rather than a full charge. This is because car batteries can become damaged if they are repeatedly charged to 100% and can begin to affect the range that the battery and car are capable of.
The batteries of new electric cars are often accompanied by a warranty. This is set by how much battery capacity the manufacturers estimate the battery to retain over a set number of years. Find out more about electric cars here.
Although electric car batteries are designed to last a number of years, their efficiency does decrease over time and the battery may need replacing whilst it’s in your possession. The cost of a new battery will vary depending on the model of the car and will be based on the cost per kilowatt-hour, as well as the installation fees. EV batteries are more expensive than standard car batteries due to the cost of their materials, such as cobalt. However, you should check what the warranty is on your vehicle before taking it to a garage as the cost of a new battery might already be covered under it. Find out more about electric cars here.
