The official launch of BMW i3 this week at the Frankfurt Motor Show sets a new standard for sustainable production, design and electric driving.

Powered by an electric drive system, the new BMW i3 is supposed to offer an almost silent driving experience with "minimal vibration", generating no local emissions.

The electric car gathers energy from lithium-ion batteries, generating an output of 125 kW/170 hp and giving acceleration from O-62mph in just 7.2 seconds.

Its LifeDrive architecture also makes it light and safe, enabling it to travel long distances on a single charge to 130-160 Km (81-99 miles).

BMW, which unveiled the vehicle in London this July, said the i-branded electric and hybrid-powered car could save corporate users more than £5,000 over three years compared with an efficient petrol or diesel engine.

BMW’s i3 city car will cost £25,680, with its other fuel-assisted version costing £28,830.

The BMW i3 release date is 16 November, but the car is available to order now.

Greener, Faster, lighter and with the initial investment saving you thousands, is it worth saving for?