BMW prepares to sell i3 and i8 models
BMW reveals that its i3 and i8 models will be sold in 46 of its dealerships after the cars’ launch.
Only 46 of BMW UK’s 153 dealers will sell the new i range of cars from launch, initially carrying the manufacturer’s first fully-electric production car, the i3, and the top-of-the-range i8 plug-in hybrid sports car.
Each i dealer will have specialist technical knowledge that will allow them to carry out repairs to the cars’ high voltage batteries, while general servicing, maintenance and repairs will be offered in a more general service network.
BMW UK managing director Tim Abbott said: “Our BMW i dealerships are located in the areas of the UK with the highest concentrations of population.”
He also said that BMW is already taking deposits on the two cars.
The i3 is expected to cost around £35,000, and will be available with two power outputs. The electric model will have a range of around 80 miles, while the petrol-electric hybrid version will manage up to around 250 miles.
The i8 will rival the Porsche 911 for driving performance and fun. Costing around £80,000, the high-performance car will do 0-62mph in 4.8 seconds - yet return 75mpg.
