Test Drive in VW ID.3

[Camperfamily]

I have range anxiety with these new-fangled electric vehicles, but maybe if we could tow a gas powered generator we’d have a solution to the problem?

The Range Extender option in the BMW i3 was essentially that. An on-board 700cc engine supported a 7 litre petrol tank - each tank boosts range by another circa 90 miles, with the little petrol engine charging the battery, which then turns the motor. You also have the option of the petrol engine maintaining a certain level of battery charge, or kicking in when battery gets down to 5% (the latter being the default mode). It is a wonderful option.

Unfortunately BMW have phase the range extender option out as the larger battery now has longer capacity on a single charge, but it loses that versatility and back-up of the petrol range extender.

 

[Camperfamily]

This was our i3. We returned it (leased, as we didn’t want the financial risk of long-term EV ownership in a fast developing sector) earlier this week due to our growing family having outgrown it, but starting to miss it already.

 

[Wildcamper]

I have range anxiety with these new-fangled electric vehicles, but maybe if we could tow a gas powered generator we’d have a solution to the problem?

It's called a Hybrid Electric Vehicle or Self Charging Hybrid.

 

[GregW]

It's called a Hybrid Electric Vehicle or Self Charging Hybrid.

Or a towable self-charging solution. I reckon with a meaty big 5.0l V8 in the caboose one could go anywhere?

 

[pjm-84]

Pick our new pool car up this Tuesday. First Edition in White.

 

[pjm-84]

Picked our new Company Pool car up this morning

 

[GregW]

Picked our new Company Pool car up this morning

View attachment 70978

And how does it drive?

 

[pjm-84]

I haven't driven it! I walk to work.

 

[pjm-84]

Okay. Numerous software issues with the car which will hopefully be fixed in Jan. Range is also an issue but the user is a touch heavy on the right pedal. 1000miles already under the belt.

A puncture this morning but the tyres are self healing once the offending item was removed. Confused us and the tyre guys until we Googled it. Plus no tyre inflator, wrench to remove the wheel or jack provided by VW.

 

[pjm-84]

Software now fixed. Used this to go to the dentist today from the office and it was a hoot. Really enjoyed the 6mile drive there and back.

Slight problem getting in and out of it with my hamstring issue but that's not the fault of the car

 

[sebh31]

Whats the battery like in the cold weather. What sort of range are you getting. Our GTE hates it and loses 5 miles range in the cold.

 

[Trevor Brown]

The Range Extender option in the BMW i3 was essentially that. An on-board 700cc engine supported a 7 litre petrol tank - each tank boosts range by another circa 90 miles, with the little petrol engine charging the battery, which then turns the motor. You also have the option of the petrol engine maintaining a certain level of battery charge, or kicking in when battery gets down to 5% (the latter being the default mode). It is a wonderful option.

Unfortunately BMW have phase the range extender option out as the larger battery now has longer capacity on a single charge, but it loses that versatility and back-up of the petrol range extender.

Had one with range extender engine. Simply fabulous system.

 

[pjm-84]

About 210miles when its cold.

 

[sebh31]

About 210miles when its cold.

Thats more than enough. I travel 100 miles or so for work Good to see its a viable option.

 

[Karlos]

No good for me I can do 300-350 miles in a day. Role on Hydrogen.

 

[pjm-84]

3miles a day for me. Legs

 

[66tim99]

No good for me I can do 300-350 miles in a day. Role on Hydrogen.

379 miles?
Recharging times getting shorter too... 20mins to 50% and 40mins to 80%
https://www.carmagazine.co.uk/electric/longest-range-electric-cars-ev/