As a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV), the BMW i8 offers the best of both worlds, combining a powerful electric motor with a traditional gasoline engine. This hybrid technology allows drivers to enjoy the thrill of a sports car while minimising their environmental footprint. However, to get the most out of this cutting-edge vehicle, understanding the ins and outs of BMW i8 charging is crucial.
With its sleek design and eco-friendly performance, the BMW i8 has become a favourite among electric vehicle (EV) enthusiasts. But like all EVs, charging can seem complicated if you’re not familiar with the options.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about charging your BMW i8—from understanding different charger types to finding convenient charging stations.
The BMW i8 features a hybrid charging system that combines the best of both worlds: electric power for short trips and a gasoline engine for longer journeys. Its battery capacity is designed for everyday use, providing around 18-22 miles of electric-only range. But to maximise the convenience and efficiency of your charging, you'll want to know the difference between a Level 1 and a Level 2 charger.
Your BMW i8 comes with a standard charging cable, but there are additional cable options available that can enhance your charging experience. The standard cable works perfectly for home charging and at many public stations, but if you frequent public charging stations, you might want to consider some aftermarket options.
The BMW i8 features a charging port located conveniently on the side of the vehicle, allowing for easy access. It uses a Type 2 connector for AC charging, which is the most common plug type in Europe. This makes it compatible with a large majority of public chargers, ensuring you can charge up wherever you go.
For DC fast charging, the BMW i8 also supports CCS (Combined Charging System) connectors, which provide rapid charging options at specific public stations. With these ports, you're set for both at-home convenience and fast charging on the road, giving you the flexibility to charge wherever and whenever it suits you.
Whether at home or using a public station, the time it takes to power up your BMW i8 can vary depending on the charger you use. Let’s break down the different charging times so you can plan your electric adventures efficiently.
Charging your BMW i8 at home is one of the most convenient options, especially if you have access to a Level 2 charger. With a 7kW home charging station, you can fully recharge your BMW i8 in about 3 hours. This is ideal for overnight charging or a quick top-up before you head out for the day.
For those using a 3kW charger, the process will take a bit longer, usually around 4.5 to 5 hours for a full charge. While it’s slower, it’s still manageable, especially if you plug in overnight. The main difference between a 3kW and 7kW charger is the speed at which the electricity flows into the battery. If you’re frequently on the go, upgrading to a faster charger at home might be worth considering for that extra convenience.
Public charging stations offer a range of options for BMW i8 owners. The most common public chargers you’ll encounter are AC chargers, which typically offer between 7kW and 22kW. At a 22kW station, you can charge your i8 significantly faster than at home, with the time dropping to around 2 hours for a full charge.
If you’re planning a longer journey, fast charging is your best bet. With rapid chargers, you can get your BMW i8 back on the road in record time. DC fast chargers, often found at service stations or high-traffic areas, can charge your i8 up to 80% in about 30 minutes. This makes them perfect for those times when you’re on a road trip and need to make a quick pit stop.
Although not every charging station offers rapid charging, the OVO Charge app will help you locate the nearest ones that do, ensuring your journey remains smooth and efficient.
Whether you're charging at home or using public stations, costs can vary based on factors like electricity rates, charger types, and charging speed. Let's break down what you can expect to pay when charging your BMW i8.
Charging your BMW i8 at home is often the most convenient and cost-effective option. Using a Level 2 home charger, you can expect to pay somewhere between £5 to £10 for a full charge, depending on local electricity rates. Given the i8's battery capacity, you can expect a range of around 18 to 22 miles on a full charge, which makes it perfect for short commutes or city driving.
One of the perks of home charging is that you can charge overnight when electricity rates tend to be lower. If you want a more in-depth look at how these costs stack up compared to other electric vehicles, check out our detailed guide on how much does it cost to charge an electric car.
Public charging costs can vary widely depending on the network and charging speed. On average, you might pay between £0.20 to £0.50 per kWh at public AC charging stations. DC fast chargers, on the other hand, can be slightly more expensive, with rates ranging from £0.40 to £0.80 per kWh due to the faster charging times they offer.
The good news is that OVO Charge helps you find the most affordable charging stations wherever you are in Europe. With its extensive network coverage, you can filter charging options based on price, speed, and availability, ensuring you always get the best deal possible.
With a few simple strategies, you can reduce charging time, extend battery life, and even save on electricity costs. Take a look at these expert tips to help you get the most out of your BMW i8 charging experience.
Efficiency is key when it comes to charging your BMW i8. One of the best ways to reduce charging time and improve efficiency is by investing in a Level 2 home charger, which can dramatically speed up your charging sessions compared to a standard Level 1 outlet. However, there are other practical ways to boost charging efficiency:
The battery is the heart of any electric vehicle, and by following a few best practices, you can significantly extend its longevity.
As we look toward the future of EVs, the market for electric sports cars is more exciting than ever. Brands are pushing the boundaries of performance and sustainability, introducing models that deliver thrilling speed while staying eco-friendly. But where does the BMW i8, a pioneer in the electric sports car world, stand in comparison to the new wave of high-performance EVs?
The BMW i8 may no longer be in production, but its legacy continues to influence the design and innovation of the best electric sports cars hitting the road in 2024 and 2025. For example, cars like the Tesla Roadster and Rimac Nevera are setting new benchmarks for speed and acceleration, boasting 0-60 times that rival even the fastest gasoline-powered cars.
However, the BMW i8 still stands out for its innovative hybrid system, which allows drivers to switch between electric power and a turbocharged engine for a truly versatile driving experience. While it may not have the all-electric power of newer models, the i8’s design philosophy laid the groundwork for what we’re seeing in today’s high-performance EVs.
To get a full rundown of what’s to come, check out the best electric sports cars for 2024 & 2025 and see how the latest models compare.
BMW’s vision for an all-electric future is quickly becoming a reality. With models like the i4 and iX already on the market, the company is doubling down on EVs that combine luxury, performance, and sustainability. The brand has committed to having at least 50% of its sales come from fully electric vehicles by 2030, a goal that showcases their dedication to a greener future.
To dive deeper into BMW’s journey toward an electric future and explore the exciting models leading the charge, check out our guide to BMW all-electric vehicles.
Europe is home to a growing number of public charging networks that make it easy to keep your BMW i8 powered while you’re on the move. Networks such as IONITY, Allego, and ChargePoint are just a few examples of reliable public chargers available throughout the continent.
They offer a mix of AC and DC fast chargers, ensuring you have access to the type of charge you need, whether you’re just running errands or embarking on a long-distance adventure.
OVO Charge offers one of the most seamless and reliable solutions to charging your EV, connecting you to over 290,000 stations across the continent, removing the need for multiple apps and memberships. The app provides detailed information on each station, including real-time availability, charger type, speed, and cost, making it easy to plan your trip and ensure you always have access to power.
Whether you're driving through city streets or cruising on the highway, OVO Charge connects you to the best public charging options available. All you have to do is open the app, input your location, and OVO Charge will guide you to the nearest station that suits your needs. It’s convenience redefined for EV drivers.
In addition to convenience, the app offers simple, transparent pricing and even discounts with their membership plans, saving you money on every charge. You can plan your route, find the best charging stations, and pay—all in one place.
Ready to make charging your BMW i8 a breeze? Download our app to get started and take the hassle out of finding charging stations.
Charging your BMW i8 doesn't have to be complicated. From understanding which charger to use and how long it takes to power up, to finding the best charging stations across Europe, this guide has covered all the essentials. Now that you know how to maximise efficiency and maintain your battery’s health, what’s next?
Your next question might be: how do I make charging as easy and seamless as possible on the road? That's where OVO Charge comes in. With access to thousands of charging stations across Europe, real-time updates, and transparent pricing, it ensures you're always connected to the best charging options, no matter where you are.
Download the OVO Charge app today and enjoy the journey!
You can charge your BMW i8 using either a standard household outlet (Level 1) or a faster home charging station (Level 2). You can also use public charging stations, many of which offer AC and DC fast-charging options for quicker results.
No, the BMW i8 is not self-charging. It’s a plug-in hybrid, meaning you need to plug it into a charging station or outlet to recharge the electric battery.
The BMW i8 uses a Type 2 charging connector for AC charging and supports CCS (Combined Charging System) for DC fast charging at public stations.
On a full electric charge, the BMW i8 can travel between 18-22 miles, depending on driving conditions. It then switches to its gasoline engine for longer journeys, offering a total range of about 330 miles.
As a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV), the BMW i8 offers the best of both worlds, combining a powerful electric motor with a traditional gasoline engine. This hybrid technology allows drivers to enjoy the thrill of a sports car while minimising their environmental footprint. However, to get the most out of this cutting-edge vehicle, understanding the ins and outs of BMW i8 charging is crucial.
With its sleek design and eco-friendly performance, the BMW i8 has become a favourite among electric vehicle (EV) enthusiasts. But like all EVs, charging can seem complicated if you’re not familiar with the options.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about charging your BMW i8—from understanding different charger types to finding convenient charging stations.
The BMW i8 features a hybrid charging system that combines the best of both worlds: electric power for short trips and a gasoline engine for longer journeys. Its battery capacity is designed for everyday use, providing around 18-22 miles of electric-only range. But to maximise the convenience and efficiency of your charging, you'll want to know the difference between a Level 1 and a Level 2 charger.
Your BMW i8 comes with a standard charging cable, but there are additional cable options available that can enhance your charging experience. The standard cable works perfectly for home charging and at many public stations, but if you frequent public charging stations, you might want to consider some aftermarket options.
The BMW i8 features a charging port located conveniently on the side of the vehicle, allowing for easy access. It uses a Type 2 connector for AC charging, which is the most common plug type in Europe. This makes it compatible with a large majority of public chargers, ensuring you can charge up wherever you go.
For DC fast charging, the BMW i8 also supports CCS (Combined Charging System) connectors, which provide rapid charging options at specific public stations. With these ports, you're set for both at-home convenience and fast charging on the road, giving you the flexibility to charge wherever and whenever it suits you.
Whether at home or using a public station, the time it takes to power up your BMW i8 can vary depending on the charger you use. Let’s break down the different charging times so you can plan your electric adventures efficiently.
Charging your BMW i8 at home is one of the most convenient options, especially if you have access to a Level 2 charger. With a 7kW home charging station, you can fully recharge your BMW i8 in about 3 hours. This is ideal for overnight charging or a quick top-up before you head out for the day.
For those using a 3kW charger, the process will take a bit longer, usually around 4.5 to 5 hours for a full charge. While it’s slower, it’s still manageable, especially if you plug in overnight. The main difference between a 3kW and 7kW charger is the speed at which the electricity flows into the battery. If you’re frequently on the go, upgrading to a faster charger at home might be worth considering for that extra convenience.
Public charging stations offer a range of options for BMW i8 owners. The most common public chargers you’ll encounter are AC chargers, which typically offer between 7kW and 22kW. At a 22kW station, you can charge your i8 significantly faster than at home, with the time dropping to around 2 hours for a full charge.
If you’re planning a longer journey, fast charging is your best bet. With rapid chargers, you can get your BMW i8 back on the road in record time. DC fast chargers, often found at service stations or high-traffic areas, can charge your i8 up to 80% in about 30 minutes. This makes them perfect for those times when you’re on a road trip and need to make a quick pit stop.
Although not every charging station offers rapid charging, the OVO Charge app will help you locate the nearest ones that do, ensuring your journey remains smooth and efficient.
Whether you're charging at home or using public stations, costs can vary based on factors like electricity rates, charger types, and charging speed. Let's break down what you can expect to pay when charging your BMW i8.
Charging your BMW i8 at home is often the most convenient and cost-effective option. Using a Level 2 home charger, you can expect to pay somewhere between £5 to £10 for a full charge, depending on local electricity rates. Given the i8's battery capacity, you can expect a range of around 18 to 22 miles on a full charge, which makes it perfect for short commutes or city driving.
One of the perks of home charging is that you can charge overnight when electricity rates tend to be lower. If you want a more in-depth look at how these costs stack up compared to other electric vehicles, check out our detailed guide on how much does it cost to charge an electric car.
Public charging costs can vary widely depending on the network and charging speed. On average, you might pay between £0.20 to £0.50 per kWh at public AC charging stations. DC fast chargers, on the other hand, can be slightly more expensive, with rates ranging from £0.40 to £0.80 per kWh due to the faster charging times they offer.
The good news is that OVO Charge helps you find the most affordable charging stations wherever you are in Europe. With its extensive network coverage, you can filter charging options based on price, speed, and availability, ensuring you always get the best deal possible.
With a few simple strategies, you can reduce charging time, extend battery life, and even save on electricity costs. Take a look at these expert tips to help you get the most out of your BMW i8 charging experience.
Efficiency is key when it comes to charging your BMW i8. One of the best ways to reduce charging time and improve efficiency is by investing in a Level 2 home charger, which can dramatically speed up your charging sessions compared to a standard Level 1 outlet. However, there are other practical ways to boost charging efficiency:
The battery is the heart of any electric vehicle, and by following a few best practices, you can significantly extend its longevity.
As we look toward the future of EVs, the market for electric sports cars is more exciting than ever. Brands are pushing the boundaries of performance and sustainability, introducing models that deliver thrilling speed while staying eco-friendly. But where does the BMW i8, a pioneer in the electric sports car world, stand in comparison to the new wave of high-performance EVs?
The BMW i8 may no longer be in production, but its legacy continues to influence the design and innovation of the best electric sports cars hitting the road in 2024 and 2025. For example, cars like the Tesla Roadster and Rimac Nevera are setting new benchmarks for speed and acceleration, boasting 0-60 times that rival even the fastest gasoline-powered cars.
However, the BMW i8 still stands out for its innovative hybrid system, which allows drivers to switch between electric power and a turbocharged engine for a truly versatile driving experience. While it may not have the all-electric power of newer models, the i8’s design philosophy laid the groundwork for what we’re seeing in today’s high-performance EVs.
To get a full rundown of what’s to come, check out the best electric sports cars for 2024 & 2025 and see how the latest models compare.
BMW’s vision for an all-electric future is quickly becoming a reality. With models like the i4 and iX already on the market, the company is doubling down on EVs that combine luxury, performance, and sustainability. The brand has committed to having at least 50% of its sales come from fully electric vehicles by 2030, a goal that showcases their dedication to a greener future.
To dive deeper into BMW’s journey toward an electric future and explore the exciting models leading the charge, check out our guide to BMW all-electric vehicles.
Europe is home to a growing number of public charging networks that make it easy to keep your BMW i8 powered while you’re on the move. Networks such as IONITY, Allego, and ChargePoint are just a few examples of reliable public chargers available throughout the continent.
They offer a mix of AC and DC fast chargers, ensuring you have access to the type of charge you need, whether you’re just running errands or embarking on a long-distance adventure.
OVO Charge offers one of the most seamless and reliable solutions to charging your EV, connecting you to over 290,000 stations across the continent, removing the need for multiple apps and memberships. The app provides detailed information on each station, including real-time availability, charger type, speed, and cost, making it easy to plan your trip and ensure you always have access to power.
Whether you're driving through city streets or cruising on the highway, OVO Charge connects you to the best public charging options available. All you have to do is open the app, input your location, and OVO Charge will guide you to the nearest station that suits your needs. It’s convenience redefined for EV drivers.
In addition to convenience, the app offers simple, transparent pricing and even discounts with their membership plans, saving you money on every charge. You can plan your route, find the best charging stations, and pay—all in one place.
Ready to make charging your BMW i8 a breeze? Download our app to get started and take the hassle out of finding charging stations.
Charging your BMW i8 doesn't have to be complicated. From understanding which charger to use and how long it takes to power up, to finding the best charging stations across Europe, this guide has covered all the essentials. Now that you know how to maximise efficiency and maintain your battery’s health, what’s next?
Your next question might be: how do I make charging as easy and seamless as possible on the road? That's where OVO Charge comes in. With access to thousands of charging stations across Europe, real-time updates, and transparent pricing, it ensures you're always connected to the best charging options, no matter where you are.
Download the OVO Charge app today and enjoy the journey!
As a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV), the BMW i8 offers the best of both worlds, combining a powerful electric motor with a traditional gasoline engine. This hybrid technology allows drivers to enjoy the thrill of a sports car while minimising their environmental footprint. However, to get the most out of this cutting-edge vehicle, understanding the ins and outs of BMW i8 charging is crucial.
With its sleek design and eco-friendly performance, the BMW i8 has become a favourite among electric vehicle (EV) enthusiasts. But like all EVs, charging can seem complicated if you’re not familiar with the options.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about charging your BMW i8—from understanding different charger types to finding convenient charging stations.
The BMW i8 features a hybrid charging system that combines the best of both worlds: electric power for short trips and a gasoline engine for longer journeys. Its battery capacity is designed for everyday use, providing around 18-22 miles of electric-only range. But to maximise the convenience and efficiency of your charging, you'll want to know the difference between a Level 1 and a Level 2 charger.
Your BMW i8 comes with a standard charging cable, but there are additional cable options available that can enhance your charging experience. The standard cable works perfectly for home charging and at many public stations, but if you frequent public charging stations, you might want to consider some aftermarket options.
The BMW i8 features a charging port located conveniently on the side of the vehicle, allowing for easy access. It uses a Type 2 connector for AC charging, which is the most common plug type in Europe. This makes it compatible with a large majority of public chargers, ensuring you can charge up wherever you go.
For DC fast charging, the BMW i8 also supports CCS (Combined Charging System) connectors, which provide rapid charging options at specific public stations. With these ports, you're set for both at-home convenience and fast charging on the road, giving you the flexibility to charge wherever and whenever it suits you.
Whether at home or using a public station, the time it takes to power up your BMW i8 can vary depending on the charger you use. Let’s break down the different charging times so you can plan your electric adventures efficiently.
Charging your BMW i8 at home is one of the most convenient options, especially if you have access to a Level 2 charger. With a 7kW home charging station, you can fully recharge your BMW i8 in about 3 hours. This is ideal for overnight charging or a quick top-up before you head out for the day.
For those using a 3kW charger, the process will take a bit longer, usually around 4.5 to 5 hours for a full charge. While it’s slower, it’s still manageable, especially if you plug in overnight. The main difference between a 3kW and 7kW charger is the speed at which the electricity flows into the battery. If you’re frequently on the go, upgrading to a faster charger at home might be worth considering for that extra convenience.
Public charging stations offer a range of options for BMW i8 owners. The most common public chargers you’ll encounter are AC chargers, which typically offer between 7kW and 22kW. At a 22kW station, you can charge your i8 significantly faster than at home, with the time dropping to around 2 hours for a full charge.
If you’re planning a longer journey, fast charging is your best bet. With rapid chargers, you can get your BMW i8 back on the road in record time. DC fast chargers, often found at service stations or high-traffic areas, can charge your i8 up to 80% in about 30 minutes. This makes them perfect for those times when you’re on a road trip and need to make a quick pit stop.
Although not every charging station offers rapid charging, the OVO Charge app will help you locate the nearest ones that do, ensuring your journey remains smooth and efficient.
Whether you're charging at home or using public stations, costs can vary based on factors like electricity rates, charger types, and charging speed. Let's break down what you can expect to pay when charging your BMW i8.
Charging your BMW i8 at home is often the most convenient and cost-effective option. Using a Level 2 home charger, you can expect to pay somewhere between £5 to £10 for a full charge, depending on local electricity rates. Given the i8's battery capacity, you can expect a range of around 18 to 22 miles on a full charge, which makes it perfect for short commutes or city driving.
One of the perks of home charging is that you can charge overnight when electricity rates tend to be lower. If you want a more in-depth look at how these costs stack up compared to other electric vehicles, check out our detailed guide on how much does it cost to charge an electric car.
Public charging costs can vary widely depending on the network and charging speed. On average, you might pay between £0.20 to £0.50 per kWh at public AC charging stations. DC fast chargers, on the other hand, can be slightly more expensive, with rates ranging from £0.40 to £0.80 per kWh due to the faster charging times they offer.
The good news is that OVO Charge helps you find the most affordable charging stations wherever you are in Europe. With its extensive network coverage, you can filter charging options based on price, speed, and availability, ensuring you always get the best deal possible.
With a few simple strategies, you can reduce charging time, extend battery life, and even save on electricity costs. Take a look at these expert tips to help you get the most out of your BMW i8 charging experience.
Efficiency is key when it comes to charging your BMW i8. One of the best ways to reduce charging time and improve efficiency is by investing in a Level 2 home charger, which can dramatically speed up your charging sessions compared to a standard Level 1 outlet. However, there are other practical ways to boost charging efficiency:
The battery is the heart of any electric vehicle, and by following a few best practices, you can significantly extend its longevity.
As we look toward the future of EVs, the market for electric sports cars is more exciting than ever. Brands are pushing the boundaries of performance and sustainability, introducing models that deliver thrilling speed while staying eco-friendly. But where does the BMW i8, a pioneer in the electric sports car world, stand in comparison to the new wave of high-performance EVs?
The BMW i8 may no longer be in production, but its legacy continues to influence the design and innovation of the best electric sports cars hitting the road in 2024 and 2025. For example, cars like the Tesla Roadster and Rimac Nevera are setting new benchmarks for speed and acceleration, boasting 0-60 times that rival even the fastest gasoline-powered cars.
However, the BMW i8 still stands out for its innovative hybrid system, which allows drivers to switch between electric power and a turbocharged engine for a truly versatile driving experience. While it may not have the all-electric power of newer models, the i8’s design philosophy laid the groundwork for what we’re seeing in today’s high-performance EVs.
To get a full rundown of what’s to come, check out the best electric sports cars for 2024 & 2025 and see how the latest models compare.
BMW’s vision for an all-electric future is quickly becoming a reality. With models like the i4 and iX already on the market, the company is doubling down on EVs that combine luxury, performance, and sustainability. The brand has committed to having at least 50% of its sales come from fully electric vehicles by 2030, a goal that showcases their dedication to a greener future.
To dive deeper into BMW’s journey toward an electric future and explore the exciting models leading the charge, check out our guide to BMW all-electric vehicles.
Europe is home to a growing number of public charging networks that make it easy to keep your BMW i8 powered while you’re on the move. Networks such as IONITY, Allego, and ChargePoint are just a few examples of reliable public chargers available throughout the continent.
They offer a mix of AC and DC fast chargers, ensuring you have access to the type of charge you need, whether you’re just running errands or embarking on a long-distance adventure.
OVO Charge offers one of the most seamless and reliable solutions to charging your EV, connecting you to over 290,000 stations across the continent, removing the need for multiple apps and memberships. The app provides detailed information on each station, including real-time availability, charger type, speed, and cost, making it easy to plan your trip and ensure you always have access to power.
Whether you're driving through city streets or cruising on the highway, OVO Charge connects you to the best public charging options available. All you have to do is open the app, input your location, and OVO Charge will guide you to the nearest station that suits your needs. It’s convenience redefined for EV drivers.
In addition to convenience, the app offers simple, transparent pricing and even discounts with their membership plans, saving you money on every charge. You can plan your route, find the best charging stations, and pay—all in one place.
Ready to make charging your BMW i8 a breeze? Download our app to get started and take the hassle out of finding charging stations.
Charging your BMW i8 doesn't have to be complicated. From understanding which charger to use and how long it takes to power up, to finding the best charging stations across Europe, this guide has covered all the essentials. Now that you know how to maximise efficiency and maintain your battery’s health, what’s next?
Your next question might be: how do I make charging as easy and seamless as possible on the road? That's where OVO Charge comes in. With access to thousands of charging stations across Europe, real-time updates, and transparent pricing, it ensures you're always connected to the best charging options, no matter where you are.
Download the OVO Charge app today and enjoy the journey!
You can charge your BMW i8 using either a standard household outlet (Level 1) or a faster home charging station (Level 2). You can also use public charging stations, many of which offer AC and DC fast-charging options for quicker results.
No, the BMW i8 is not self-charging. It’s a plug-in hybrid, meaning you need to plug it into a charging station or outlet to recharge the electric battery.
The BMW i8 uses a Type 2 charging connector for AC charging and supports CCS (Combined Charging System) for DC fast charging at public stations.
On a full electric charge, the BMW i8 can travel between 18-22 miles, depending on driving conditions. It then switches to its gasoline engine for longer journeys, offering a total range of about 330 miles.
