[Video] BMW i3S REx Tested on the Road at 70 mph

From the very start, the i3 was featured with two variants – the BMW i3S REx and BMW i3 REx. The first one was produced for those who are having trouble with what some call today as ‘range anxiety’, and the other one was an entirely electric variant. Operating as a generator, the i3 REx was integrated along with a small-scale 650cc scooter engine found in the back. Taking advantage of the usual old gasoline, that small two-cylinder plays its role by recharging the batteries underway. Lastly, the engine also comes with a few provisions while solving every range-associated dilemma.

The fact that it is a denser car is one of the biggest dilemmas. What makes it heavier includes every electronics that is essential for its internal combustion. This also includes the fuel tank and the fuel that will be placed inside it. Unlike the genuine EV model, every ounce has input on electric cars and therefore exhibited in its performance. For this reason, the battery electric vehicles are considered to be faster in contrast with the REx. Also, it surely has a completely longer electric range.

Despite some of its issues, the i3 REx was still handpicked by many people. Tom Moloughney is one of them. And in order for him to take advantage of the i3 REx, he resolved to check how all its extra kit can make a huge difference. At 70 mph, Moloughney borrowed an i3 REx to test it on the road. With a battery of 93.5%, the results showed that it can run 126 miles. The range extender engine launches when the battery life is already at 6.5%. Therefore, we cannot experience the i3 REx to run 126 miles with 100% of its battery.

For a BMW i3S REx, it is accordingly the accurate EPA estimates that it can cover. On the said road test, the weather was on a slightly high temperature. Moreover, there were also two people in the car and the AC was on for the totality of the trip.

The i3S REx can be found to be surely capable of covering more miles with various situations. If it was driven around a small town, for instance, there would be lower energy consumption. Plus, another positive impact would be to turn off the AC and to carry less weight such as the number of passengers.