LESSONS LEARNED FROM THE BMW I3 - AUTOLINE AFTER HOURS 295

EV Channels Review

The Autoline After Hours panel, joined by BMW Product Manager John Kelly, provides an in-depth look at the BMW i3, focusing on lessons learned since its market introduction. The discussion highlights the vehicle's unique ground-up design, emphasizing its carbon fiber construction and aluminum chassis for weight reduction and interior space maximization. Customer feedback is a recurring theme, with the panel addressing the controversial strong regenerative braking, the polarizing exterior styling, and the surprisingly positive reception of the interior design and sustainable materials. The extended-range (REX) model's usage is also explored, revealing that most owners utilize it primarily for peace of mind rather than daily necessity, with many rarely engaging the combustion engine. While acknowledging the premium price point and niche appeal, the consensus points to the i3 as a distinctively engineered, enjoyable-to-drive premium electric vehicle that successfully embodies BMW's driving dynamics.