EV Owning Experience: BMW i4 edrive3.
An Osprey staff member reviews their experience owning a BMW i4 edrive35.
Which EV do you own and why did you choose this specific EV model?
I own a BMW i4 edrive35 which I chose due to it's impressive range of over 250 miles and BMW's high quality.
What is your favourite feature about your car?
The quality of the finish is impressive, it's also very smooth and quiet in all conditions.
How has your experience been with owning and driving an electric car? And how does it compare to owning a petrol car?
My experience has been really good so far. I really enjoy driving electric and feel less guilty about using the car as it makes me feel more environmentally conscious.
These cars also make city driving a lot more relaxing than stick shift petrol cars.
What do you find most enjoyable or convenient about driving your EV?
The regenerative braking is great. You end up only using 1 pedal to drive the car, braking just happens magically, and it doesn't take long to get used to it at all.
Technology like this sets EVs apart from ICE vehicles.
Can you share any interesting or surprising moments you've had while driving your EV?
The many different factors that can impact the speed of charge of an electric car are interesting. It's quite a lot more technical than for liquid fuels and car manufacturers need to help by educating their customers on this point.
Having chosen to rent an electric car during some holidays in Spain this year, I've also realised how good the charging infrastructure is in the UK!
How do you go about charging your EV both at home and on a public network?
I don't have a home charger, so relying on public AC charging nearby or rapid public charging. I've got an Osprey charger nearby which is very convenient for me.
When on longer trips, convenience is key for me and I've found Osprey chargers were very often located next to other amenities that I want/need to use. The main thing for me is that I know that the charger will work when I choose an Osprey site.
Have you noticed any differences in maintenance or operating costs compared to a petrol/diesel car?
I've only had the car for a few months, so no service required to date. I know the EV will be much more economical in that regard though.
What advice would you give to someone considering purchasing an electric vehicle?
Just go for it! If you have the ability to charge at home, it's a no brainer for me and you will not regret it.
If you can't charge at home, the transition is still easily doable. With batteries getting bigger, charging times getting faster, and the mass deployment of chargepoints, incorporating charging into your life and trips is easier than ever!
How do you see the future of electric vehicle ownership evolving?
There is no turning back, electric vehicles are the present and the future.
Ownership will become more widespread as there are some really good second hand cars coming to the market. New battery technologies will also make new cars more affordable.
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