Since the REX engine is a component of a "serial" hybrid, making the REX engine available as an accessory would be beneficial for the following reasons:
1. Environmentally beneficial:
(a) Many inbuilt-REX purchasers may use it only occassionally, if at all. So, lugging around ~300 lbs at all other times isn't good for the environment, along with construction costs and minimum maintenance required for the REX engine.
(b) Many current ICE owners who balk at the idea of EVs might reconsider if they are assured that an ICE-on-wheels can be purchased or rented and added as an accessory, as their range needs change.
2. This would go well with the modular concept that has been used with the i3 design. Along with battery upgrades, one won't be boxed in with the initial range of the car.
3. ICE-on-wheels can be larger than the current REX engine, with a bigger gas tank so that highway speeds can be sustained for a longer range, regardless of battery SOC.
4. This will obviate the need to rent a whole car, which again would be better for the environment.
5. Well-maintained ICE-on-wheels can be made available at BMW dealerships, instead of , or in addition to whole cars.
6. ICE-on-wheels can also made to double as a generator for the house.
I am sure BMW is capable of making the ICE-on-wheels asesthetically pleasing.
1. Environmentally beneficial:
(a) Many inbuilt-REX purchasers may use it only occassionally, if at all. So, lugging around ~300 lbs at all other times isn't good for the environment, along with construction costs and minimum maintenance required for the REX engine.
(b) Many current ICE owners who balk at the idea of EVs might reconsider if they are assured that an ICE-on-wheels can be purchased or rented and added as an accessory, as their range needs change.
2. This would go well with the modular concept that has been used with the i3 design. Along with battery upgrades, one won't be boxed in with the initial range of the car.
3. ICE-on-wheels can be larger than the current REX engine, with a bigger gas tank so that highway speeds can be sustained for a longer range, regardless of battery SOC.
4. This will obviate the need to rent a whole car, which again would be better for the environment.
5. Well-maintained ICE-on-wheels can be made available at BMW dealerships, instead of , or in addition to whole cars.
6. ICE-on-wheels can also made to double as a generator for the house.
I am sure BMW is capable of making the ICE-on-wheels asesthetically pleasing.