When setting out on the first drive in your new BMW, you want to know that your vehicle has gone through ample testing to get to your driveway. BMW of Bakersfield understands the importance of this consumer comfort. And so does BMW. In order to ensure that future all-electric BMW models are made to perfection and provide optimum peace-of-mind, the automaker is sending out a fleet of BMW ActiveE electrics for a two-year trial run.

Given to real-life consumers, dubbed "Electronauts," this initial round of BMW ActiveE models will gain real-world driving experience and provide critical driver/vehicle feedback. Recently, the first two electric-loving consumers were given their ActiveE keys. Their names: Tom and Meredith Moloughney. Their mission: show the world the benefits of electric mobility. In a short amount of time, Tom and Meredith will be joined by some 200 Electronauts who will also take on the two-year task.

While the BMW ActiveE Electronaut program may be a test run, the power and innovation used in each trial model is all real. More specifically, the ActiveE is powered by an electric motor capable of generating 170 horsepower with a top torque of 184-lb./ft. Unlike other EV options, the BMW model can go 100 miles on a single charge and hits a top speed of 90 miles per hour. Of course, the ActiveE is also unique because it has the backing of a highly-respected brand. This means that the model is dressed in suave style and comes with all the expected BMW premium accoutrements.

To learn more about the BMW ActiveE progression, feel free to contact BMW in Bakersfield or talk with us in person at 5400 Gasoline Alley Drive Bakersfield, CA 93313. The innovative EV-of-the-future won't be released to the public until late 2013 but in the meantime we promise to keep you updated on any new BMW model information.