Distance, Performance, Peace of Mind

Boston, MA - August 3, 2011 – Although currently-available electric vehicles suffer from problems ofpoor performance and short driving range, the Strategy Analytics report, “BMW i: Raising Consumer Appeal for Plug-In Vehicles,” presents two electrified concept cars from BMW in a positive light.

Unveiled on July 29, 2011, these two electric concept cars—the i3 compact electric car (with optional range extender) and the i8 plug-in hybrid sports coupe—which will launch in 2013 and 2014, will offer enhanced performance and peace of mind.

Kevin Mak, analyst in the Automotive Electronics Service at Strategy Analytics, said, “Battery electric vehicles (EVs) and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) suffer from limitations imposed by existing battery technology, resulting in high cost, poor relative performance and limited driving range.  The BMW i attempts to mitigate these limitations via scalable platform development, use of new composite materials, battery pack thermal preconditioning and other new systems. These enhance the efficiency and driving range of the vehicle and add new active safety features and a navigation system that clearly shows both the actual driving range and recharging facility locations within that range.  New partnership ventures, such as Intermodal Route Planning, have been formed to provide relevant i car connected support services.” 

Mak adds, “Earlier BMW studies showed that drivers were adapting their driving habits in accordance with the limited driving range of its Mini E EV.  With the developments made with the i car development, BMW hopes for consumer confidence in plug-in vehicles for longer journeys, which would benefit the market as a whole.”