BMW i3 Electric Saloon Hits Irish and UK Markets with 900km Range, Pricing Revealed

BMW has set the Irish price for its new i3 electric saloon, offering a 900km range, according to The Irish Times. The UK market also confirmed pricing details, with the electric 3 Series model featuring a 567-mile range for £53,000, as reported by PistonHeads and Autocar.

Irish Market Pricing and Range Details

The Irish Times reported that BMW has finalized the pricing for the i3 electric saloon in Ireland, which boasts a 900km (approximately 559-mile) range. While the exact price tag was not specified in the report, the vehicle’s extended range positions it as a competitive option in the Irish EV market. This announcement aligns with BMW’s broader strategy to expand its electric vehicle lineup across European markets.

UK Pricing Confirmed: £53,000 for 567-Mile Range

PistonHeads confirmed that the UK pricing for the i3 has been officially set, with the electric 3 Series model available for £53,000. Autocar highlighted that the vehicle’s 567-mile range—slightly higher than the 900km figure cited in the Irish report—makes it one of the most range-competitive models in its class. The discrepancy in range figures may stem from different testing standards or rounding conventions between sources.

Comparison of Range Figures: km vs. Miles

The i3’s range is reported as 900km in Ireland and 567 miles in the UK. Converting 900km to miles (559 miles) shows a near match, suggesting the difference is likely due to rounding. This highlights the importance of standardized testing protocols in EV range reporting. BMW has not yet clarified whether the variation reflects different certification processes or model configurations.

Market Implications and Consumer Appeal

The i3’s pricing and range figures place it in direct competition with models like the Tesla Model 3 and Audi e-tron. According to a 2023 analysis by BMW’s official press releases, the i3 aims to attract buyers seeking a balance between performance, range, and premium features. The vehicle’s £53,000 price point in the UK also positions it as a challenger to the Porsche Taycan in the luxury EV segment.

What Comes Next for BMW’s Electric Strategy?

BMW’s expansion of the i3 into Ireland and the UK follows its 2022 announcement to invest €50 billion in electric vehicle development by 2030. The company’s CEO, Oliver Zipse, stated in a