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Vehicle of choice: BMW i4 eDrive40 M Sport
In the ever-evolving landscape of electric vehicles, the quest for practicality and convenience has become a crucial aspect of their widespread adoption. On December 11th, Eastern Western Motor Group's Social Media Manager, Joseph Kidd, embarked on an electric journey, putting the BMW i4 eDrive40 M Sport to the test. The challenge: a road trip from Edinburgh to Oban and back, relying solely on the public charging infrastructure scattered across Scotland.
The automotive industry is undergoing a transformative shift, with electric vehicles (EVs) at the forefront. BMW's i4 eDrive40 M Sport represents a new era of performance, blending luxury with sustainability. The journey aimed not only to showcase the capabilities of this electric marvel but also to emphasise the growing network of public charging stations supporting such adventures.
One of the common concerns about electric vehicles is range anxiety. To address this, meticulous planning was essential. The route from Edinburgh to Oban was strategically chosen to include prominent public charging stations along the way. This not only ensured a smooth journey but also allowed for an exploration of Scotland's beautiful landscapes.
The journey unfolded with ensuring the vehicle was fully charged at the dealership. From urban fast chargers to scenic rural locations, each stop from here was an opportunity to experience the evolving infrastructure. Joseph actually made it to Oban with an impressive 43% of charge left (without any need to stop and charge on the way up). The social media updates provided real-time insights into the journey, dispelling any myths about inconvenience or delays.
The BMW i4 eDrive40 M Sport demonstrated its prowess throughout the journey. The combination of dynamic driving capabilities and a spacious, luxurious interior made the electric road trip a delight. From the bustling city streets of Edinburgh to the serene roads leading to Oban, the i4 eDrive40 M Sport seamlessly integrated into the diverse landscapes of Scotland.
Beyond the vehicle's performance, the road trip highlighted the commendable efforts in establishing a robust charging infrastructure across Scotland. The availability of charging stations, even in remote areas, underscored the commitment to making electric mobility accessible to all.
During the trip, Joseph mainly utilised the Charge Place Scotland charging stations as he had access to one of their access cards. ChargePlace Scotland are Scotland’s national Electric Vehicle (EV) charging network. They're owned and have been developed by the Scottish Government, and funded in partnership through a public grant from Local Authorities and other organisations. Their network has grown from 55 public charge points in 2013 to over 2,600 in 2023. You can see all of the publicly available chargers and their status on our live map – where you can also see type and availability.
To access charge points on the ChargePlace Scotland network, you must first order an access card at a one off fee of just £12 per card. You can then use your access card to charge your EV for a fraction of the cost of a combustion engine. Some may even be free of charge! You can check tariff rates on their extremely useful 'Live Map' feature.
Eastern Western Motor Group's electric adventure showcased not only the capabilities of the BMW i4 eDrive40 M Sport but also the growing infrastructure supporting electric mobility. As the automotive industry accelerates towards electrification, such real-world experiences play a crucial role in dispelling myths and instilling confidence in the viability of electric vehicles for everyday use. The road trip from Edinburgh to Oban and back was more than just a journey—it was a testament to the exciting future of electric mobility in Scotland and beyond.
The intelligent driving system created by the merging of the efficient drivetrain concept, lightweight construction, aerodynamic design and a powerful high-voltage battery, allows the BMW i4 eDrive40 to reach up to 365 miles[1]. In addition to this, other innovative technologies, such as brake energy recovery, help to extend the range and reduce energy consumption to less than 16.5 kW/h.
Engine power in kW (hp): 250 (340)
Maximum torque in Nm: 430
Acceleration 0–62 mph in s: 5.7
Electric range in miles (WLTP): up to 365[1]
Maximum charging capacity: recharging for 10 min can add up to 101 miles (high-power charging station)
WHAT CAR?
"Thinking about going electric but don’t want to shout it from the rooftops? Well, the BMW i4 could be the car for you"
AUTO EXPRESS.
"Sophisticated, well-built and typically great to drive, the all-electric BMW i4 is an easy car to recommend"
CARBUYER.
"BMW's first all-electric compact executive model has arrived to challenge the Tesla Model 3"
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