After quite some time of prototypes and testing, BMW launched its $42,000 electric car—the BMW i3. It is the first ever all-electric car that uses most of BMW’s most advanced technologies to date. The debut happened simultaneously in three cities including, Beijing, London, and New York.

During the conduction of the “Project I” research, BMW found that the standard daily driving distance was around 48 kilometers (30 miles). When peered through that prism, i3’s range of 129 to 161 kilometers (80 to 100 miles) seems more than enough. BMW claims that an additional 12 percent can be attained in ECO MODE.

For those who are not convinced with the ample range, BMW makes an interesting offer. BMW is prevacating its bets with the i3. Besides the electric version, buyers can opt to furnish the i3 with a 34-hp 650cc range-extending two-cylinder engine, basically making the car into a Volt-like series hybrid. However, the engine will not power the wheels but will serve strictly as a reserve or back-up, adding range and adaptability.

BMW says that with the range extender, drivers can refill their tanks at gas stations rather than searching for an electrical charge station because Gas stations are more readily accessible than charge stations.

On the other hand, BMW is convinced that most buyers will choose the electric-only models.

Categorized as a compact, the i3 is a four-door car with rear-hinged coach doors that creates an open, B pillar-less entry into the car. It has a hatchback over the tiny cargo area which has 8 cubic feet of space. Other external features of interest include U-shaped LED tail and head lamps, black surfaces, a huge back windshield, and aerodynamic air curtains.

Yet, BMW anticipates that most buyers will also order the customized 240-volt charger, which costs about US$3,000 plus installation and recharges the under-floor battery pack in three hours. A fast 480-volt charger, which is offered only at public charging stations, can do an 80 percent charge in about 20 minutes. But extensive use of the quick charger can cause battery deterioration.