21 March 2013

i3 range 'up to 330km'

BMW's first production electric car, the i3, will have a range of 220km, the company says.

Set to go on sale before the end of the year in global markets, the car will also have a range-extender system that can boost distance travellable up to 350km.

The 220km range will require use of specific 'Eco' modes which will trim down use of ancillary systems such as aircon and heating.

The 'range extender' is a 2-cylinder motorcycle engine and a generator, using petrol to charge the system for an extra 130km.

There are no prices for the i3 yet.