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BMW Prices Range Extender for i3 EV at $3,900
BMW AG plans to charge buyers of its new i3 electric minicar an extra $3,900 to add a range-extending generator powered by a 2-cylinder gasoline engine.
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BMW AG plans to charge buyers of its new i3 electric minicar an extra $3,900 to add a range-extending generator powered by a 2-cylinder gasoline engine.
The standard $42,300 i3 can travel 80-100 miles per charge. BMW says the extender system, similar in concept to one used in the Chevrolet Volt, will hike the car's range by about 80 miles.
All i3 models are propelled by a 22-kWh lithium-ion battery and electric motor that produces 170 hp and 184 lb-ft of torque.
The extender consists of an electrical generator powered by a motorcycle-type 650-cc engine that makes 34 hp. The system does not deliver power directly to the wheels.
BMW R&D chief Herbert Diess estimated in January that half of initial i3 buyers will opt for the extender system. He also predicted the ratio would fall to 20% as most consumers realize they would rarely need the onboard charger.
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