The BMW i3 is an electric city car that forms the first part of BMW's new i range of hi-tech electric and low-CO2 cars.
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What is the BMW i3?
According to the men from Munich, this is nothing less than the future of personal transport.
More specifically, the i3 is the opening salvo in BMW's new i-car range of fully-electric and range-extender vehicles. It's a four-seat city car that uses technology developed in the prototype electric Mini E.
The all-electric i3 made its public debut at the 2011 Frankfurt Motor Show, alongside the petrol/electric i8 supercar.
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Why should I buy a BMW i3?
At first, probably because you're an 'early adopter'. There's a lot of exciting new tech here - and not just in the powertrain.
BMW's new 'LifeDrive architecture' means this is literally a car of two halves: the aluminium 'drive module' at the bottom, and the carbon fibre and plastic 'life module' on top. This is the first time carbon fibre-reinforced plastic (CFRP) will have been used in mainstream car production.
Runnings costs for the i3 will be low, with free car tax and minimal fuel bills, but the high asking price (estimated to be a cool £30,000) means you won't save money overall. There are also question marks of the future values of electric cars as their batteries could degrade and become less efficient.
If you're interested in electric cars, view our reviews of the Nissan Leaf and Peugeot iOn - the first battery-powered cars go through the Which? Car Test Lab.
What engine does the BMW i3 use?
The i3 relies on a compact electric motor mounted over the rear axle, The batteries are located in the centre of the floorpan and can be charged to 80% capacity in one hour by plugging in to the mains.
Maximum power is around 170bhp - enough to propel the i3 to 62mph in 7.9sec and on to a top speed of 93mph. BMW quotes a range of 90 miles in everyday driving conditions.
When can I buy the BMW i3?
Sooner than you might think. The i3 is scheduled to go on sale in 2013 and its high price means it will be competing against large cars like BMW's own 3 Series.
Hmmm... 3 Series or i3? You'd have to be brave - or wealthy - to choose the latter, but you can't fault BMW's ambition.
See more star cars from the Frankfurt Motor Show in our A-Z guide
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