BMW i3 is a game changer for electric cars

At £25,680, the BMW i3 is too expensive to be the electric vehicle equivalent of the Ford Model T, but it will nonetheless do much to alter perceptions.

Electric cars are often dismissed as novelty vehicles; exotic runabouts for the wealthy or badges of honour for the environmentally devout, but for most, a drive in the i3 will be a revelation. No other car makes widespread electric motoring feel nearer.

The fact that BMWs have a reputation as ‘drivers’ cars’ makes the reception the i3 has received from motoring journalists all the more remarkable. Many have been impressed by its levels of refinement, handling and performance.

The BMW i3 has a range of 80 – 125 miles, but is available with an optional range-extending motorcycle engine that keeps the batteries topped up and effectively doubles the range.