An interim review of the BMW i3 as it turns two

Two years after it went on sale, the BMW i3 has established itself at the pinnacle of its segment worldwide. In Germany, one in every four electrically-powered vehicles (EV) sold since then has been a BMW i3, globally it is one in 10.

With the creation of the BMW i brand and the decision to develop a purpose-built vehicle architecture, as well as passenger cells made from Carbon Fibre Reinforced Plastic (CFRP) and BMW eDrive technology, the BMW Group has taken on a pioneering role in the field of personal mobility.

Both the BMW i3 - designed to provide locally emission-free mobility in urban areas - and the trailblazing BMW i8 plug-in hybrid sports car blend the joy of driving with a premium character that is focused squarely on sustainability and also involves a resource-friendly approach to materials selection and manufacturing.

Crucial element within the success story of the BMW i3 has been that it is the only EV worldwide with an optional Range Extender, with customers having the option of an additional small combustion engine to augment the car's capabilities.

The success of the BMW i models offers clear evidence of the growing interest in sustainable personal mobility while also providing a valuable shot in the arm for the infrastructure development still required. Positive examples of how the impact of electric mobility can be increased to good effect through infrastructure measures and public incentives can be found in countries such as Norway and the Netherlands.

The BMW i3 is available now in 49 countries.