BMW launches i Remote app for i8 and i3

BMW has launched a new smartphone app to work with its hybrid i8 and electric i3. The i Remote app can be used to help drivers maximise their car’s range and improve driving style to boost efficiency.

Key features include a battery charge status and remaining range display, which can also calculate if the car has enough energy left to reach the nearest charging station. If users want to schedule, start or end a charge, they can also do so via the app. 

Users can share efficiency statistics of previous journeys with the BMW i Community, using factors like CO2 output and fuel usage to calculate total efficiency (displayed as a percentage).

Dean Smith

Also included is a wireless door lock and unlock function, and the ability to pre-set interior climate settings to warm or cool the car ahead of a journey.

Currently, the app only works with BMW’s i cars, comprised of the i8 hybrid sports car - which BMW claims can achieve 134.5mpg (a number we fell significantly short of in our own tests) - and the electric i3 hatch - which BMW claims can cover as much as 211 miles when equipped with a range extender.

Though the app is free to download, users have to be signed up to BMW Assist in order for it to work with their car. i Remote is available to download on Apple’s App Store and Android’s Google Play.