Yes, the BMW i3 is a fully electric vehicle (EV). The BMW i3 was designed and manufactured as an electric car from the ground up, and it does not have an internal combustion engine. It is part of BMW’s “i” sub-brand, which focuses on sustainable mobility solutions, including electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles.
Key features of the BMW i3 include:
- Electric Powertrain: The i3 is powered exclusively by an electric powertrain, which consists of an electric motor that drives the vehicle’s wheels. There is no traditional gasoline engine.
- Battery Electric Vehicle (BEV): The i3 operates solely on electric power stored in a high-voltage lithium-ion battery pack. It does not have a gasoline engine backup or a range extender, making it a Battery Electric Vehicle (BEV).
- Range: The i3 offers a range on a full charge, allowing drivers to travel without using any gasoline. The specific range may vary based on the model year and battery capacity.
- Sustainable Materials: BMW designed the i3 with sustainability in mind, incorporating recycled and eco-friendly materials in its construction to reduce its environmental impact.
It’s important to note that while the BMW i3 is a fully electric vehicle, BMW also offers plug-in hybrid models as part of its “iPerformance” lineup, such as the BMW i8. These plug-in hybrid models combine an internal combustion engine with an electric motor and a battery, allowing drivers to use electric power or a combination of electric and gasoline power. However, the i3 itself is a dedicated electric car.