YES. Top speed is rated at 150 kph for the i3, while the i3S is capable of 160 kph. Which is impressive, considering there no government incentives or discounts to encourage consumers to buy EVs.

The REX models ranges weren't supplied with the BMW brochure but we estimate that there's at least an additional 100 km of range.The standard i3 has 125 kW and 250 Nm, while the sportier i3S has 135 kW and 270 Nm. The Johannesburg-Pretoria-Johannesburg commute comes to 150 km (in total), making it totally feasible and well within range. It's difficult to believe that the first i3 launched in South Africa in early 2015. Whereas the standard i3 produces 125 kW and 250 Nm, the i3S conjures up 135 kW and 270 Nm. However, the cost is a big barrier to entry and we imagine BMW Group SA is quietly frustrated with the government's reluctance to incentivise EV purchases. Being a premium offering, the standard specification is great with plenty of luxury and convenience features such as satellite navigation. Since the launch of the electric BMW i sub-brand, more than 600 i3 and i8 models have found homes in Mzansi. The new BMW i3 available in South Africa. Further Reading. There are a few Cars.co.za staffers who'd readily take the plunge given their lifestyles. BMW currently has 58 ChargeNow stations in the country, 6 of which are shared with Nissan. South Africa– Blue Sky Publications (Pty) Ltd T/A TheSouthAfrican Number: 2005/028472/07. Globally, it is a different story; BMW reached its goal of selling more than 140 000 EVs in 2018.It doesn't sound like much when we say there's a larger-capacity battery, but it's a critical change. The same methodology should be applied with electric cars and customers should be taking advantage of chargers at malls and gyms as even a quick 15-minute charge is sufficient for 40 km.Should you buy one? BMW i3 (2019) Price in South Africa (May 2019) i3 120Ah R658 500. i3 120Ah REX R740 700. i3s 120Ah R716 900. i3s 120Ah REX R799 100. BMW has announced the i3 will launch in 2014 in South Africa. Still looking like a fresh and futuristic concept straight from a European motor show comes the updated BMW i3. Back in 2015, the Japanese brand signed a memorandum of understanding with BMW and while the first-gen Leaf hasn't quite been a sales success, there's much expected of the 2nd-generation version, which is expected in the local market soon.

BMW i3 and i8 Roadster (2018) Launch Review. Due to the additional weight of the onboard engines, the REX models are a touch slower at 8.1 and 7.7 seconds respectively. It is good to drive too! Be mindful not to tug too enthusiastically at the steering wheel, however: the car gives a sensation that it is quite top-heavy.

Further Reading. The key differentiators between i3 and i3S is not limited to just engine power increase, but there's also a sportier suspension with sporty steering, giving it a slant towards enthusiastic driving.Standard specification is impressive for a German brand and we can see only a handful of options available. REX stands for Range Extender and these models feature an inline 2-cylinder petrol engine with 28 kW and 56 Nm, which doesn't actually drive the wheels but rather generates additional electricity thus increasing the range. According to Korea Times, BMW plans to launch the i3 in May 2014. Dual-colour painted surfaces and short projecting edges are a model of modern design. The BMW i3 makes it very easy for you to implement sustainability into your everyday life. Jaguar I-Pace Is World Car of The Year.

BMW i3 in South Africa. BMW i3 in South Korea. The steering is direct and light – the car is eager to dart about. BMW claims a 0-100 kph time of 7.3 sec for the standard car, with the i3S being a touch quicker (6.9 sec).