BMW’s first electric car, i3

Image via BMW

BMW has developed its first electric car, called i3, and is slated to hit the United States later this year. Cranking out 80 miles per charge, this small four-door automobile seats five. Its digital integration system seems amazing, enabling users to communicate, track, and locate members of their family. The locator app, Life360, is integrated through the dashboard for optimal performance, as users can use it in tandem with mobile phone handsets.

This BMW’s dashboard consists of eucalyptus wood, leather, and plastic, and has a pushbutton start. A small automatic transmission control protrudes from the steering wheel for easy access. The dashboard comes in the form of a small screen that sits above the steering wheel. The main control screen is located right next to the dashboard that shows the car’s iDrive system that can be manipulated with a button on the seat.

Life360 is an app that has reportedly drawn in 70 million users. This app works together with the car only if it has already been installed on the driver’s phone. Users can add their family members to the on-screen circle where you can see the locations of the people in your circle who have downloaded the app. People can then select the where the family member is located and use the in-car navigational system to drive to his/her location. Users can also request notifications to be sent to other app users’ phones when drivers arrive at a particular destination.

Some other features inside the i3 electric car include a panic button, a messaging system, and the life advisors that come as premium features. There is also a parking assistant option that helps with parking distance, and displays what's picked up by rear-view camera. Users can purchase a real-time traffic assistant package, ACC Stop & Go, and Active Driving Assistance services. The i3 has DC fast-charging capabilities. The OnStar-esque car assistant system, offering help anytime/anywhere, costs $5 extra per month.

BMW wants the i3 to be eventually integrated with various “Internet of Things” gadgets, technology, hardware, and apps. The car is set to hit the market later this year, and will sell for around $42,000.

Story via BMW USA, Mashable