i3 Pricing to be Close to 3-Series

Pricing for the i3 has been pegged at about $40,000 or about the same as a well-equipped 3-series sedan according to Ludwig Willisch, CEO of BMW North America. Additionally, it will likely qualify for a $7500 federal tax credit (although discussions with the US government are ongoing).

The exact price for the five-door compact will be set closer to launch, late this year, but we do know that this all-electric plug-in will have an optional 650cc two-cylinder gasoline engine and auxiliary generator to charge the batteries. BMW will also offer a program allowing i3 owners to borrow a conventional gas or diesel car for longer trips.

Most of BMW’s US dealers are expected to sell both the i3 and i8 hybrid sports car but have until June to decline the option. Some smaller dealers or those in fairly rural areas may decline to sell the electrics because they don’t want to invest in the necessary tools or training.

Source: Automotive News