Beatrice Lang
BMW has been an innovator in the electric vehicle (EV) space since the 1970s, when it released the 1602 Elektro, a support vehicle for long-distance walkers and marathon runners at the 1972 Summer Olympics in Munich. Since then, BMW has continued to develop its EV technology, releasing its first all-electric car in 2013, the BMW i3, and following up with other models such as the i4, i5, i7, and iX. BMW's electric vehicles offer a range of benefits, including environmental friendliness, impressive performance, and networked charging solutions. The company has also set ambitious goals for the future, aiming for half of its total sales to be fully electric by 2030.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Electric Vehicles | iX1, iX2, iX3, i3, i4, i5 M60, i7, i8 PHEV |
| First Electric Vehicle | 1602 Elektro, released in 1972 |
| Sub-brand | BMW i |
| Year of Launch of Sub-brand | 2011 |
| First Electric Vehicles under BMW i | i3, released in 2013, and i8 PHEV, released in 2014 |
| Technology | eDrive |
| Technology Components | Electric motor, lithium-ion high-performance battery, intelligent energy-management system |
| Technology Benefits | Improved charging capability and shorter charging time |
| Environmentally Friendly | Yes |
| Environmentally-friendly Features | No exhaust emissions on shorter trips or around town, almost silent |
| Government Benefits | May include government subsidies and tax concessions |
| Charging Solutions | BMW Charging, one of the largest public charging networks in North America |
Explore related products
What You'll Learn
BMW's electric vehicle history
BMW has been researching and testing electric cars for over 40 years. In 1972, one of their electric cars was used at the Munich Olympics, where it led a pack of long-distance runners without exposing them to fumes. However, the car could only travel 37 miles on a single charge, and its top speed was 40 mph, so the project was not considered a success.
In February 2011, BMW announced a new sub-brand, BMW i, to market the vehicles produced under Project i. The first two production models were the BMW i3, a battery-electric vehicle, and the BMW i8, a plug-in hybrid. The BMW i3 was released in November 2013, and the BMW i8 in June 2014. The BMW i4, the first purely electric BMW Gran Coupé, was unveiled in March 2021, and the BMW iX, an all-electric SUV, was unveiled in July 2020.
As of June 2021, BMW has released seven electrified models using BMW i technology, including the Mini Cooper S E Countryman ALL4 plug-in hybrid. Combined global sales of BMW Group electrified vehicles reached 500,000 units in December 2019, with global sales of the BMW i3 alone reaching over 165,000 units by the beginning of 2020.
Electric Vehicles: The Future of Transportation?
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Current electric BMW models
BMW has a range of electric vehicles (EVs) available for purchase or lease. The BMW i4 is the first purely electric BMW Gran Coupé and has a range of up to 590 kilometres. The BMW iX1, iX2, and iX are also fully electric and offer long ranges and networked charging solutions. The BMW i3 is another electric option, known for its progressive design and use of sustainable materials. For those seeking a larger vehicle, the BMW i5 M60 is an all-electric vehicle with impressive performance, including a SPORT mode that thrills drivers and passengers alike.
BMW electric vehicles offer various features that enhance the driving experience. For example, the BMW Maps feature optimizes routes and incorporates charging stations, making long trips seamless. The My BMW App allows users to start and stop charging, monitor their session, and automatically pay at over 130,000 charging stations. BMW electric vehicles also come equipped with a Flexible Fast Charger, a portable home charger compatible with standard outlets.
BMW electric vehicles provide an environmentally-conscious option for drivers, offering emission-free and almost silent driving, particularly for shorter trips or around town. The electric drive system in current BMW electric cars has an efficiency of up to 95%, contributing to their eco-friendly appeal.
Overall, BMW offers a diverse range of electric vehicles, from sedans to SUVs, each with its unique features, performance capabilities, and design aesthetics.
Electrical Vehicles: The Future of Sustainable Transportation
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Electric BMWs coming soon
BMW has been an innovator in the electric vehicle (EV) space for decades. The German automobile giant had its first BMW electric car, the 1602 Elektro, at the 1972 Summer Olympic Games in Munich. The Elektro acted as a support vehicle for long-distance walkers and marathon runners, showcasing its impressive range of 30km.
Since then, BMW has continued to develop and release electric vehicles, with a range of models available worldwide. The BMW i3, released in 2013, was the first car unveiled under the BMW i badge, followed by the BMW i8 PHEV super car in 2014. The BMW i4, the brand's first fully electric Gran Coupé, was released in Australia in 2022, with two variants: the BMW i4 eDrive40 and the BMW i4 M50. The BMW iX, an all-electric SUV, was also released in Australia in late 2021, with two variants: the xDrive40 and the xDrive50.
BMW is not slowing down when it comes to electric vehicles, with several new models coming soon. The BMW iX1, the company's first all-wheel-drive electric vehicle, is set to be released in Australia in early 2023. The iX1 will be a premium compact crossover SUV with a range of up to 438 kilometres.
In addition, BMW has confirmed that its all-electric lineup will be expanded in the coming years with the i7 limousine and a potential re-introduction of the i3 as an electric version of the 3 Series sedan. BMW is also working on driverless technology with the self-driving iNext concept, a fully electric SUV that could become the basis for fleets of autonomous vehicles. BMW has stated that it plans for half of its total sales to be fully electric by 2030, with a target of delivering about 2 million BMW full-electric vehicles to customers by 2025.
With its range of current and upcoming electric vehicles, BMW is committed to providing environmentally friendly and efficient transportation options for drivers around the world.
Electric Vehicle Revolution: Global Adoption Leaders
You may want to see also
Explore related products
![[2025 Upgraded] ALPHAKIDS Licensed BMW 12V Kids Electric Motorcycle, 3-Wheel Ride-On Ages 3-5 Years,Lightweight, Easy to Ride with Reverse, Headlight, Horn, MP3/USB, Safe Stable Design(Charm Red)](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/71ho9stfT6L._AC_UL320_.jpg)
BMW's electric vehicle technology
BMW has been an innovator in electric vehicle (EV) technology for decades. The German automobile manufacturer had its first BMW electric car, the 1602 Elektro, acting as a support vehicle at the 1972 Summer Olympic Games in Munich. The Elektro supplied water and carried a film crew, showcasing its impressive range of 30km.
Fast forward to 2023, and BMW has expanded its range of electric vehicles, with the iX1 being the company's first all-wheel-drive electric vehicle in the premium compact crossover segment. The iX1, iX, iX3, and i7 are all part of BMW's fully electric small EV lineup. The iX1 xDrive30 delivers a combined output of 200kW and 494Nm of torque, with an additional 30kW available in 'boost' power mode. It can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 5.7 seconds and has a range of 413-438km.
The BMW i4 and BMW iX are also notable additions to the BMW electric vehicle family, offering long ranges and networked charging solutions. The i4 is the brand's first-ever fully electric Gran Coupé, with a range of up to 590km and impressive acceleration. The BMW i3, introduced in 2013, stands out with its progressive design and sustainable materials, while the BMW i8, launched in 2014, is a Plug-In Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV) supercar.
BMW is committed to expanding its EV offerings, with plans for half of its total sales to be fully electric by 2030. The brand has also explored driverless technology with the self-driving iNext concept, a fully electric SUV, and is investigating hydrogen-powered vehicles with the BMW i Hydrogen Next SUV.
California's Electric Vehicle Incentives: What You Need to Know
You may want to see also
Explore related products
BMW's electric vehicle charging
BMW offers a range of electric vehicles, including the i3, i4, i5 M60, and iX. These vehicles provide an impressive driving experience with their electric all-wheel drive and exceptional range. The transition to electric vehicles can be easy, as charging an electric car is similar to charging a phone. BMW offers various charging solutions to cater to different needs, whether charging at home or on the go.
BMW EV Charging Solutions
BMW provides a comprehensive program with one of the largest public charging networks in North America. The BMW Charging Network partners are seamlessly integrated into the My BMW App, making it convenient for users to locate and utilise charging stations. The app also allows users to start and stop charging, monitor the session, and make automatic payments at over 130,000 charging stations.
Charging at Home
BMW offers flexible charging solutions for at-home charging. The BMW Flexible Charging Cable is an optional accessory for all electric cars, providing mobile and flexible charging at different power sockets. It can be used at domestic power sockets and, with an adapter, at industrial "high-power" sockets as well. BMW also offers the Wallbox or Flexible Fast Charger, allowing for convenient home charging.
Charging on the Go
For charging while on the move, BMW electric vehicles are equipped with BMW Maps, a built-in navigation system that optimises routes and incorporates charging stations seamlessly. This system ensures that charging stations are readily available when needed during long trips. Additionally, the BMW ID feature allows users to save personal settings and enjoy a personalised experience in their vehicles.
Factors Affecting Charging
It is important to note that several factors influence the charging process and the range of an electric vehicle. The driving style, speed, and energy consumption factors, such as air conditioning or trailer load, can impact the range. Additionally, the battery's performance and capacity are affected by temperature, similar to how mobile phone batteries perform in cold temperatures.
Toyota's Electric Vehicle Absence: Why the Wait?
You may want to see also
Frequently asked questions
Yes, BMW has a range of electric vehicles, including the iX1, iX2, iX3, i3, i4, i5 M60, and i7.
The range of BMW electric vehicles varies depending on the model. For example, the i4 has a range of 590km, while the i4 M50 has a range of 510km. The iX1 has a range of between 413 and 438km.
BMW electric vehicles offer significant savings, credits, and convenience. They are also environmentally friendly, producing zero emissions on shorter trips or around town. Additionally, BMW has one of the largest public charging networks in North America, making it convenient for customers to find charging stations.
