[Jake C]

Could be wise to see the big long term picture here.

The i3 is a very important car for BMW. As it is a BMW sub brand. Not like Mini.

Yes the i3 would be more visually comparable with the Leaf than the Model S. However, I would not doubt that somewhere deep inside the FIZ or in a design studio that there is an i car that will be more comparable style wise with the Model S.

And thinking long term if BMW has invested 1B Euros there will be a long term plan to recoup that money and then make money for the future. BMW is a business and a successful independent business at that. They are not in the business of losing money.

For the enthusiasts out there (of which I am one). Don't think some much of the design of the i3 influencing future cars. My suggestion would be to think of the Carbon Fiber uses for future BMW i or BMW non i cars to reduce weight and improve performance. Not to mention how electric / hybrid cars will improve BMW's CAFE requirements which will allow us to have M2's, M3's, M5's and M6's.

Is the i3 BMW's sexiest car? No.

Is it important? Yes.

- J