Metiria Turei's new 'pure-electric' BMW

Metiria Turei's new electric BMW (Newshub.)
Metiria Turei's new ride. Photo credit: Newshub.

The Greens aren't renowned for their penchant for fine European luxury cars - but that's exactly what you'll find co-leader Metiria Turei driving around in.

She's been given a BMW i3 electric car for the duration of the election campaign, and she's taking it on a tour of the country.

"My friend gave me her car because she's awesome," Ms Turei says.

"It's a naughty and generous gift she's given me."

Metiria Turei's new electric BMW (Newshub.)
Metiria Turei's loaning this car from ChargeNet. Photo credit: Newshub.

That friend was Dee West, who works for ChargeNet, a company which is rolling out electric car charging stations across the country.

The Te Tai Tonga candidate took delivery of the German-made car in Auckland on Friday and has been driving it to various appointments around the super city - including the Green Party's AGM at AUT's Sir Paul Reeves building.

The car has some impressive stats. It can go from 0-100km/h in 7.9 seconds, with a top speed of 150km/h. On a full charge, which only takes around 30 minutes, it can travel around 170km.

And the important part: it doesn't pump out exhaust fumes.

Inside, there's a lack of the usual clutter you would find, mainly because there's no gear stick. There's also a big touch screen that controls everything, and a big sunroof too.

Ms Turei says the i3 is a great car to drive, although she was very cautious at first.

Newshub.