BMW i3 gets a price hike for 2015

Those looking to buy the BMW i3 this year will have to shell out a bit more as the German automaker has just bumped the prices up by around $1,075 (Rs 66,000). According to a few reports, the highly versatile EV  now carries a price tag of $43,350 (Rs 26.64 lakh) marking a slight increase in retail prices. 

The price hike has been applied to both the fully electric i3 and its hybrid sibling i3 REx which now starts off at $47,200 (Rs 39 lakh). It’s not all bad news though as BMW has also added a few more features including heated front seats, satellite radio and DC fast-charging as standard in the 2015 year model.

Mechanically, the more expensive 2015 year model is identical to the 2014 model. The vehicle continues to make use of the 170bhp electric motor in conjunction with a lithium-ion battery. The i3 REx hybrid, on the other hand, gets a two-cylinder petrol engine for improved driving range.

With its futuristic looks and a highly advanced powertrain, the i3 caught the attention of many when it was introduced in late 2013. Sadly, it doesn’t look like BMW India has immediate plans to bring in the i3 to India. Instead, the company is working on launching the i8 hybrid sports car which is scheduled to hit the Indian market on February 18. 

Source: GreenCarReports via WCF