Status symbols getting smaller

PANAMA’S  first 100% electric car  arrived on the market this week bringing the country in line with other Latin American countries such as Mexico, Costa Rica, Colombia and Chile.

But don’t expect to see the streets flooded with the environmentally  friendly BMWi3.

In a country where the have’s like to demonstrate that they are up with the Joneses by flaunting  their bigger-the-better  models, the two-door four seater vehicle comes with a price tag from $54,000 -$59, 000.

Ahead of the pack
But if you want to stay ahead of the pack, and are a city driver this eco friendly model is for you. Status symbols have gotten smaller.

Aaron Romero, vice president of marketing for Bavarian Motors predicts  sale of 12-15 units in the first year

The BMWi3  is spacious inside, and with 170 horsepower has a range of about 168-170 km on a full charge of the battery, but that may vary depending on the driving mode chosen.

The default mode is Comfort. When used in Eco Pro, it becomes more efficient cargo and air conditioning is regulated. In Eco Pro +, the speed, which can reach up to 240 km / hour, only goes up to 90km / h and the air is regulated; so the battery can yield 180 km or slightly more.

The vehicle is quiet , and  when braking,  it actually  regenerates.

A sensor sounds as the car approaches traffic lights, indicating that the car is very close.. Equipped with multiple computers and sensors, it alao has the GPS-enabled maps for  Panama and connectivity with smartphones via Bluetooth to play music.

The i3 is made with carbon fiber and is recyclable parts. The battery, which is located in the bottom of the trunk, has eight years of warranty. No need to replace complete, as it is divided into modules and will replace individual cells can.

Its cost varies by country. In Panama, the model with the most basic configuration is around $54,000, and the most equipped the 59 thousand 900 dollars. Panama is still a small market, but the company plans to sell 12 to 15 units per year.