The Met Police’s trial of the BMW i3 will evaluate how EVs could perform in a live operational environment

The new i3 is now on patrol in Wandsworth, and will respond to police incidents. In addition to the standard testing and evaluation tools, police officers will report back on their experience of using the vehicle during regular patrolling duties.

Chief Superintendent Richard Smith, Wandsworth Borough Commander, said: “We are delighted to have the opportunity to trial this environmentally friendly response vehicle in Wandsworth. Our aim is to ensure that Wandsworth is a safe place for anyone who lives, works or visits here; this vehicle allows us to do so whilst also playing our part in helping to improve air quality, which must be a good thing.”

Jonathan Cook, deputy council leader, added: “Air quality is a major issue right across London and embracing electric motoring has the potential to make a real difference. We hope the trial is a success.”

The MPS Driving School will also be testing the vehicle and providing expert advice on its potential use within the MPS fleet.

Range-extended i3 models have a range of up to 100 miles for the 2017 model, assisted by regenerative braking technology, and can reach 0-30 mph in 3.5 seconds.