Running on empty?
BMW's i sub-brand is reaching a tipping point and the automaker is reportedly considering contingency plans should sales fail to materialize.
According to Automobile Magazine, a number of external
factors - including the lack of a recharging infrastructure and
austerity moves in Europe (which could result in less EV/hybrid tax
credits) - are causing the company to second guess their goal of selling
100,000 i3s and 10,000 i8s annually.
Despite the obstacles, BMW is
reportedly committed to launching the models because it would cost
"billions" to abandon the projects right now. While that's good news
for fans of eco-friendly vehicles, the i1 and i5 are rumored to be on ice.
Regardless of what happens, BMW is undoubtedly watching sales of the
Chevrolet Volt, Nissan Leaf and Fisker Karma. These models have all
received praise, but have lost some of their momentum after being
launched. PHOTOS
