BMW has posted a few screenshots of the new i3 iPhone application to its Facebook page, and EV groupies are drooling for more.

BMW has posted a few screenshots of the new i3 iPhone application to its Facebook page, and EV groupies are drooling for more. Even judging by this fleeting glimpse, the new software looks sleeker and more sophisticated than any we’ve seen yet.

A translucent cool blue car and a noirish virtual city map show your state of charge, existing range and nearby charging stations. You can control your EV’s AC/heat and door locks remotely, choose a smart charging option, and plan trips, including “intermodal” routes incorporating public transport.

Alas, before you glide off into virtual EV heaven, we must step on the brake. The wonderful new cars that will use the app – BMW’s i8 plug-in hybrid sports car and i3 electric city car, both unveiled as concepts in 2011 – aren’t expected to go into production until 2013. If you really can’t wait, you can always buy a ticket for Detroit, where they and their sleek software might just be on display at next week’s North American International Auto Show.

Images: BMW