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At Birne, we have a long-standing interest in technologies that move the world forward – and electromobility is undoubtedly one of them. That's why we enthusiastically accepted the invitation to the Going Green@work event, which we attended together with our partners BMW and Parkl.
During six days of intensive testing, we had eight fully electric BMW and MINI vehicles at our disposal, which we thoroughly tested in real-world conditions. We also received charging cards from Parkl and BMW with the cars, allowing us to experience the entire electromobility ecosystem – from driving dynamics to everyday charging convenience.
🚗 Test Fleet
The testing included the following models:
- BMW iX1 eDrive20
- BMW iX2 xDrive30
- BMW i4 xDrive40
- BMW i5 xDrive40 Touring
- BMW iX xDrive45
- MINI Countryman SE ALL4
- MINI Aceman SE
- MINI Cooper SE
At least two drivers rotated in each car, so everyone could form their own opinion on driving characteristics, comfort, and usability.
⚡ Test Impressions
BMW i4 – The Electric Athlete
The first drive in the i4 was a surprise – a purely electric car with the soul of an athlete. Instant power delivery and precise steering make the i4 a joy to drive.
Charging via Parkl worked without problems, although 15 CZK/kWh is a sum that one would ideally like to see lower for frequent charging. The range of around 320 km could be longer, but otherwise, it's a pure driving experience.
BMW iX2 – Efficiency, Silence, and Technology
Driving the iX2 was an experience for everyone – a quiet, smooth, yet powerful car that responds to every steering wheel movement.
On longer routes, such as Brno-Prague, there was no need to worry about charging if one had a home wallbox.
Drivers appreciated the BMW navigation, which shows the battery level you will arrive with at your destination, making charging planning perfectly sensible.
Several times, there was a comment that the charging cables are short and that closing the doors requires a bit more force. The interior design is a matter of taste – some like it, others less so. Overall, however, the iX2 offered an excellent compromise between performance, comfort, and efficiency.
BMW iX – Silence, Power, and Comfort
The iX showed that even a large SUV can be surprisingly agile. Maneuvering is absolutely smooth thanks to the rear-wheel steering and air suspension.
Drivers appreciated the large battery, power, and technological features such as augmented reality in the instrument cluster (AR).
And even though there were some minor things to improve here – for example, the inability to extend the seat cushion length or a non-functional digital key – the overall impression remains exceptionally positive.
BMW i5 – The Comfortable Executive Cruiser
The i5 proved to be a comfortable yet powerful electric vehicle. In sport mode, it has an unexpectedly sharp acceleration – it literally pins you to your seat.
We appreciated the fast charging, precise handling, and especially practical features like remote car pre-heating via the app – ideal on chilly 2°C mornings.
BMW navigation was unequivocally praised this time: clear, accurate, and supplemented with battery status prediction on arrival.
Minor drawbacks include a partially obscured display by the steering wheel or duplicate control buttons – but nothing that would spoil the great overall impression.
BMW iX1 – Compact Confidence
The iX1 confirmed that a smaller SUV can offer a premium driving experience and very good maneuverability in the city.
Quiet, comfortable, and ideal for everyday use – a sensible compromise between practicality and style.
MINI Aceman – Small Go-Kart with Big Character
The simulated engine sound was an absolute highlight – drivers felt like they were in a go-kart.
The car responds instantly, and driving it is pure joy. Only the front axle sometimes struggles to transmit power to the road, and the interior could use softer armrests.
But as it was said: "I enjoyed every ride to the fullest – like a little boy."
MINI Countryman SE ALL4 – Easygoing Companion
The Countryman left a more "civilized" impression – it felt practical, functional, and clear.
The interior materials are not the most luxurious, but the car offers solid comfort and typical MINI playfulness.
The round display looks unconventional, but once you get used to it, it works well.
MINI Cooper SE – Fun on Four Wheels
"Playful, fierce, and with a MINI heart."
The Cooper SE thrilled everyone with its liveliness, kart mode, and fast app connection.
The infotainment could be more intuitive, but this car is primarily about emotions – and it has plenty to spare.
🔋 Charging with Parkl and BMW
Charging with Parkl and BMW cards was flawless – it worked at all stations, often with over 100 kW of power.
Navigation helped plan routes according to available chargers, which proved to be a huge advantage on longer journeys.
Most of us had our first experience with electric vehicles and agreed that the transition to electric is easier than we expected.
💬 Our Impressions from Testing
Six days of testing flew by incredibly fast, and everyone enjoyed it. Some fell in love with the sporty i4, others with the elegant i5 or the fun MINI. But we all agreed on one thing:
BMW and MINI electric vehicles captivated us.
They offer performance, comfort, modern technology, and driving pleasure – all without emissions.
