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BMW built the same car for gas and electric. The EV is $4,400 cheaper.
TechCrunch • • business
Key Points:
- Electric vehicles (EVs) are becoming cheaper than comparable gas-powered cars sooner than many analysts predicted, with BloombergNEF expecting this shift around 2026.
- BMW’s 2027 3 Series offers both gas and electric versions, with the EV i3 50 xDrive priced $4,400 (6.7%) lower than the gas-powered M350 xDrive, despite similar power and styling.
- While a cheaper gas-powered 3 Series trim exists, it does not have an electric equivalent yet; the EV benefits from BMW’s latest platform and technology, unlike the gas model which uses an updated older platform.
- The range and refueling experience of the two models are comparable, with the gas version offering about 450 miles per tank and the EV providing 468 miles per charge plus fast charging that adds 208 miles in 10 minutes.
- For most drivers, the transition to EVs may be seamless given the similar performance, pricing, and convenience, marking a significant milestone in EV affordability and practicality.
