BMWs have always been known for their incredible handling, unstoppable power, and ultimate comfort. Now, thanks to their line of eco-friendly electric vehicles, the brand has once again made a name for itself with its best-in-class performance, innovation, and sustainability.
Since it was first introduced in 2013, the BMI i series has been giving drivers the experience they’ve come to expect. These vehicles offer the power of a sports car and the comfort of a luxury sedan — all while reducing carbon footprints. Here’s a look at how they do it.
Electrifying Performance
All of BMW’s electric vehicles derive their power from their signature e-Drive technology. The all-electric engine in the BMW i3 and i3s offers smooth, instant acceleration and incredible efficiency.
The sleek BMW i8 Roadster and i8 Coupe both deliver an impressive 420 lb-ft of torque. These models offer drivers a choice of sport, comfort, or eco-pro driving modes to truly customize your experience. Smoothly switch from electric to gas to ensure you achieve the perfect blend of sports performance and everyday efficiency.
Intelligent Design
Each of these vehicles is made of Carbon Fiber Reinforced Plastic (CFRP), which offers the strength of steel at only half the weight. It’s this innovative framework that allows the vehicles to operate so efficiently and handle like a BMW should. The LifeDrive frame was specifically designed to increase the vehicle’s range and reduce weight while still offering a spacious and comfortable cabin.
Sustainable Manufacturing
It’s not enough for an electric vehicle to run efficiently once it hits the roads. If you really care about your carbon footprint, sustainable manufacturing matters too.
All of the i-series vehicles are manufactured in Leipzig. This is one of the most modern and eco-friendly automobile factories in the world and is entirely powered by factory-owned wind turbines. The CFRP is manufactured at the Moses Lake plant, which is run on locally-sourced hydropower.
According to BMW, the entire production of the i3 requires 70% less water and 50% less power than traditional vehicle manufacturing.
Eco-Friendly Materials
The commitment to sustainable materials doesn’t stop with CFRP. BMW i vehicles also use open-pore eucalyptus wood, which is both beautiful and widely recognized as a sustainable resource. Instead of using harsh chemicals, the company also tans its fine leather upholstery with olive leaf extract to protect it from fading and wear.
Eco-friendly plastics, like recycled bottles, are woven into the seat fabric and a sustainably grown and harvested type of hemp, called kenaf, is used to reinforce the door trims and dashboard.
Charging Convenience
You may wonder whether owning an electric vehicle is inconvenient, but when that vehicle is a BMW, the answer is no! In fact, you can use the Occasional Use Cable to conveniently charge your battery from any household outlet.
You can also install the BMW i Wallbox in your garage or use a wide network of public vehicle charging stations. Plug-in overnight and you’re always good to go — the i3 goes from empty to fully charged in just six hours, while the i8 is ready to go in just 3 hours.
The Future Has Arrived
The driving experience of the future is here today. It’s a place where performance, efficiency, and ground-breaking design combine to give drivers a new kind of Ultimate Driving Experience. These vehicles aren’t just turning heads — they’re changing minds by showing the world that high-performance and sustainability can work together to protect the planet and create a better future.