How does the new BMW i3 compare with our favorite EVs?

This morning, BMW finally pulled the wraps off of the 2014 BMW i3 electric car, laying clear the last details surrounding this car for the cities of the future.

The car arrives in the second quarter of 2014, so it will be a while before most of you will be able to take one for a spin. In the meanwhile, we’ve got a lot of specs on our hands, so let’s compare the i3’s numbers with those of competing small EV models.

(Credit: Wayne Cunningham/CNET)

2014 BMW i3 I’d wager that BMW placed a high emphasis on driving dynamics with the i3, because its little EV’s 125 kw, 170 horsepower motor is the most powerful in this roundup. Depending on how close its carbon fiber chassis gets to the estimated 2,700 pound curb weight, it could also end up being the lightest. High power and low weight are two of the main ingredients when baking a deliciously fun ride.

The BWM also boasts the fastest estimated 240V Level 2 charging time, beating the 4 hour standard by a full hour thanks possibly to its more powerful on-board charger. Finally, the Bimmer’s optional range extender grants it nearly unlimited cruising range, making it the most flexible. However, the addition of that gasoline engine option adds complexity and tailpipe emissions to this zero-emissions roundup and could potentially confuse less well-informed buyers.

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