Automaker BMW plans to sell its electricity-powered i3 in South Africa next year.

The BMW i3 features a passenger cell made from carbon-fibre-reinforced plastic (CFRP) and 'eDrive' technology that enables it to be driven on electric power alone with a range of 130 to 160 kilometres.

The vehicle, which is expected to be officially launched next year, is being showcased at Schneider Electric's Xperience Efficiency event in Johannesburg, South Africa.

"We are planning to launch the vehicle by 2015 after all the necessary approvals are done," said BMW director sales and marketing Antonio Antela Martinez.

Martinez also said charging of the i3 can be done at home or work with the BMW iWallbox Pure, a specially developed home charging unit.

Schneider Electric and BMW plan to survey South Africans prior to rolling out these charging stations.

The move to sell the BMW 13 in South Africa comes as fuel prices in the country's most urbanised province Gauteng have been at among their highest levels this year (view graph below).

Gauteng: 93 Unleaded Petrol cents per litre (c/l)

Source: South African Petroleum Industry Association