Award could boost i3 sales in the showroom
BMW New Zealand expects to see an increase in sales of the i3 after the electric vehicle was named Car of the Year this week.
The BMW beat nine contenders to the award, announced on Wednesday at an event hosted by the AA and the Motoring Writers’ Guild.
Members of the guild and an AA motoring expert voted on the list of finalists, judging the models on their styling, performance, handling, economy, comfort, interior design, build quality and finish, practicality, value for money, and their X-factor.
For guild members, the i3 showed itself to be a revolutionary car in the emerging electric vehicle segment and also proved a dynamic product to drive.
The i3 also took out the Best in Class Compact Car award.
“We anticipate winning the New Zealand Car of the Year award, and being the first ever electric car to do so, will provide a significant positive rub-off effect for interest in the i3,” said BMW NZ’s corporate communications manager, Edward Finn.
“Less than 24 hours after winning the award, we have noticed increased interest in the BMW i3 and a rise in levels of inquiry about the new model.”
Since its launch in New Zealand late last year, 33 models of the i3 have been registered here.
“Such an accolade means not only good news for BMW and the i3, but also electric vehicles as a whole,” said Finn.
“The recognition bestowed on the BMW i3 represents an important step in the future of sustainable personal mobility.”