Comparing BMW i3-REx and Tesla Model 3

From my benchmarks, 63 mph on a Standard Day:

• 88 mi premium gas range - 2.3 gal, $3.75/gal, $8.63 (8/22/2023), BMW i3-REx
• 106 mi EV range - 28 kWh, $0.12/kWh, $3.36 (retail home), BMW i3-REx
• 215 mi EV range - 48 kWh, $0.12/kWh, $5.76 (retail home), Tesla Model 3

So now we can calculate the cost per 100 miles:

• $4.26 / 100 mi (100%) - premium gas, BMW i3-REx
• $3.17 / 100 mi ( 74%) - EV, BMW i3-REx
• $2.68 / 100 mi ( 63%) - EV, Tesla Model 3

Why would I choose to drive the BMW around town, short trips, versus the cheaper Tesla:

• 16.2 ft vs 19.4 ft turn radius - the BMW is more maneuverable
• 74% vs 63% relative costs - the BMW is only 11% more expensive

Why would I choose to drive the Tesla outside of town versus BMW i3-REx:

• Autopilot+Full Self Driving vs dumb cruise control - the Tesla is much easier on the driver
• 63% vs 100% relative costs - the Tesla is much cheaper versus gas for BMW i3-REx

So what is the practical effect on out of town range:


The red circle is the 88 mi gas range of the BMW i3-REx. The blue circle is the Model 3 EV range. In practice, the BMW segments between truck stops is ~77 mi and the Model 3 charging ~150 mi. The BMW needs twice as many fuel stops, !0 min each, while the Tesla, 20 minutes. So the block-to-block time is awash.

Due to higher electric rates at Superchargers, the Tesla cost per mile is only a little lower than the BMW. But in terms of driver fatigue and safety, the Tesla wins hands down.

Bob Wilson

 

I forgot to mention the 30% tax credit next year for buying a used one:

• $15,000 * 30% = $4,500 ... limited to $4,000

So eventually out of pocket, $11,000 <GRINS>.

Bob Wilson