YouTuber Converts 2017 BMW i3 Into Electric Pickup for $8,000
The project involved cutting the roof and rear windows to create a bed while retaining the car's original range-extender gas engine.
YouTuber Michael Pick transformed a 2017 BMW i3 into a functional electric pickup truck for approximately $8,000, aiming to combine EV efficiency with the utility of a work vehicle.
What Happened
Pick purchased a non-running 2017 BMW i3 REX at an auction for $5,598, intending to replace his aging Ford Ranger. After installing a new 12-volt battery to get the car running, he modified the vehicle by removing the rear windows and a section of the roof to create a cargo bed. The build utilized plywood, 2x4s, silicone, and adhesive, with salvaged taillights integrated into a new rear assembly. The original infotainment screen was replaced with a larger aftermarket unit supporting Apple CarPlay, while the distinctive rear-hinged half doors were retained.
Why It Matters
As mainstream manufacturers like Slate, Telo, and Ford develop small electric pickups that remain months away from release, this DIY project highlights an immediate, low-cost alternative for consumers facing rising gas prices. The average gas price cited in the report is $4.20 per gallon. The converted i3 offers a practical solution for budget-conscious buyers, though it comes with limitations. The 2017 i3 REX has an EPA-estimated total range of 180 miles, falling short of Pick's 300-mile goal. Additionally, the presence of the range-extender gas engine requires ongoing maintenance, such as oil changes, which necessitates removing the custom bed to access the motor.
The Bottom Line
The conversion results in one of the most affordable fuel-efficient pickups available, costing just under $8,000 in total. However, the project requires trade-offs, including limited range compared to modern EVs and added maintenance complexity due to the hybrid powertrain.
