BMW i3 production wraps up for North America, Australian future unclear
It appears time could be just about up for the all-electric hatchback, which launched to much fanfare in 2013.
Production of the BMW i3 will wrap up this month for North American markets, however the quirky electric hatchback's future in Australia is unclear for now.
While US-bound production is ending, insiders suggest the vehicle will continue to be built for Europe until June 2022. CarAdvice has contacted BMW Australia for clarification on the vehicle's local status, and this story will be updated when more information becomes available.
Sales of the i3 in Australia have faltered in recent years, likely due to its ageing platform, below-par driving range and increased competition in the electric vehicle segment. In 2020 just 55 examples were reported as sold according to VFACTS industry data, down from 150 throughout 2015.
Launched in 2013 and last updated in 2018, the i3 is built on a dedicated aluminium and carbon-fibre skateboard platform.
In i3s 120Ah guise – the only variant currently on offer in Australia – a single electric motor mounted on the rear axle sends 135kW/270Nm to the road, allowing the 0-100km/h sprint to be completed in a claimed 6.9 seconds.
Energy is drawn from a 42.2kWh lithium-ion battery pack, permitting a claimed maximum range of 260km between charges.
Pricing starts from $71,900 before on-road costs in Australia.
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