Following on from the i3 with five doors, the i3 coupe concept is BMW's effort to get more people to love electric cars. It is a coupe, so it's got the right proportions, even if it does seems a little too tall to be called a coupe. It is a wee bit longer than the other i3, but shares the wheelbase.
It has got massive 20-inch rims, but on rubber that is relatively narrow for the wheel size - 155mm wide in the front and 175mm wide at the rear. Maximum range is 160km on a full charge. That range can be extended by selecting Eco Pro or Eco Pro+ mode, which will limit the i3 Concept Coupe to a maximum of 88kmph.
Instead of focusing on the driving aspect like BMW usually does, it has displayed a telematics system that downloads your calendar and messages, monitors driving, and offers tips for recharging. It also updates the driver with changes in range as traffic conditions change, including a switch in modes to reach your destination. It will even go so far as to direct you to the next charging station and book you a slot. Among the cabin changes are the 6.5-inch TFT display that replaces the traditional gauges and an 8.8-inch display on the centre console.
If it goes into production, expect not only an all-EV version but also a range-extender version like the Chevy Volt. The five-door i3 will probably go on sale next year as a 2014 model.
