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BMW built the same car for gas and electric. The EV is $4,400 cheaper.
BMW's 2027 3 Series offers both gas and electric versions, with the electric i3 priced at $61,500—$4,400 less than the gas-powered M350 xDrive. This marks a significant shift as EVs become more affordable than their fossil fuel counterparts, showcasing a shift expected to grow as technology improves.
Key points
- BMW has released the 2027 3 Series in gas and electric versions, showcasing them as comparable models.
- Pricing: Gas-powered M350 xDrive costs $65,900; electric i3 50xDrive costs $61,500, making the i3 6.7% cheaper.
- Both vehicles feature similar performance and styling, catering to the same market demographic.
- The electric version utilizes BMW's latest chassis and technology, while the gas version is based on an existing platform.
- The i3 has a range of 468 miles per charge, slightly more than the gas model's estimated 450 miles per tank.
- This development indicates that EVs are beginning to lower their upfront costs, which were traditionally higher than gas vehicles.
Why it matters
- A historical shift is underway in the automotive industry as electric vehicles become more mainstream and cost-competitive by the mid-2020s.
- Predictions from organizations like BloombergNEF indicated that EVs would surpass gas vehicles in affordability around 2026, which is now occurring.
- This change aligns with the global push for cleaner energy and reducing carbon footprints amid increasing climate awareness.
BMW's introduction of a cheaper electric 3 Series signifies a pivotal moment in the EV market, underscoring the advancing technology and changing consumer preferences towards more sustainable vehicles.