| BMW Qualcomm i3 | |
|---|---|
| |
| Car Details | |
| Manufacturer |  BMW
|
| Model | i3 |
| Designer |  Richard Kim
|
| Motor | Series plug-in hybrid
Range extender (i3 REx) |
| Battery | 37.9 kWh lithium-ion battery |
| Length | 3,999 mm (157.4 in) |
| Width | 1,775 mm (69.9 in) |
| Height | 1,578 mm (62.1 in) |
| Weight | 1,315 kg (2,899 lb) |
| Top Speed | 93mph |
| Debut | 2014/15 |
| Final Season | 2021/22 |
The BMW Qualcomm i3 is a hybrid compact car that had previously served as both the Medical Car and Driver Extraction Car for the FIA Formula E Championship as part of the line up of Course Vehicles up until BMW decided to exit the sport.
The i3 Medical Car, along with the i8 Safety Car, were unique among the 2014/15 field in that it is the only hybrid cars used in the otherwise all electric series - its 37.9kWh battery is supported by a 9L range extender with a limited speed of 150km/h (93mph)
While the technology was not yet available to do so, the FIA had stated that they intended to develop wireless charging capability for the Safety Car and Medical Car by 2017, thus increasing the range of the vehicle on electric power alone, this was never achieved due to increased efficiency and range of later safety cars.
In the event that a driver is injured and requires on-track medical assistance, the Medical Car would be deployed. The Medical Car carries FIA Medical personnel including Dr. Phil Rayner and is supplied with a wide range of medical equipment to be used depending on the severity and conditions of the accident.
Usage in Formula E Championship[]
| Season | Role | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 2014/15 | Medical/Driver Extraction Vehicle | |
| 2015/16 | Medical/Driver Extraction Vehicle | |
| 2016/17 | Medical/Driver Extraction Vehicle | |
| 2017/18 | Medical/Driver Extraction Vehicle | |
| 2018/19 | Medical/Driver Extraction Vehicle | |
| 2019/20 | Medical/Driver Extraction Vehicle | |
| 2020/21 | Medical/Driver Extraction Vehicle | |
| 2021/22 | Medical/Driver Extraction Vehicle | This would be the last season the Qualcomm i3 would be employed as the Medical and Driver Extraction Vehicle. It was replaced by a Porsche Cayenne. |