BMW stops sales of i3 electric hatchbacks in US; recalled all models sold in the country since 2014
BMW has stopped the sales of its zero emission pure electric hatchback i3 in US. Also, the Bavarian auto giant has recalled all the i3 models sold in the country since 2014. The recall program has been initiated over a safety issue. The recalled cars come lacking frontal impact performance standard that was detected by a recent National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) crash test.
As the crash test for BMW i3 conducted by the NHTSA, it was reported that driver of the vehicle sustained loads marginally above the limit. Though BMW’s own compliance testing showcased the results are satisfactory, several recent tests by other agencies revealed inconsistent results. Clearly these test results prompted the company to recall the model.
Also read: 2018 BMW i3 Emerges With Sporty i3S Variant Revealed At Frankfurt
However, the German luxury car manufacturer has ordered to stop sales of the i3 electric hatchback in US market only. Sales of this zero emission vehicle will continue in other global markets. The German brand is expected to reveal further details regarding the recall program in coming days. Interestingly, the i3 has been one of the major steps from the automaker to introduce the all-electric green mobility.
The hatchback garnered pretty good attention from the buyers within short period after it launch. In October this year, BMW announced the i3 has crossed 100,000th production milestone. Also, at the 2017 Frankfurt Motor Show, the auto giant revealed all-new i3 and introduced a new sporty variant as well that comes christened as i3S.
Also read: BMW i3 Touches 1,00,000th Production Milestone Globally
BMW i3S comes with a sportier character and delivers high performance compared to the standard model. It is capable of accelerating to 100 kmph from standstill position in just 6.9 seconds and it also arrives with a top speed of 160 kmph. It kicks out 184 hp of peak power and 269 Nm of peak torque. It runs on 20-inch alloy wheels and gets sporty suspension as well.
Source: InsideEVs