The 2015 BMW i8 has its charging port on the driver's side, behind a motorized cover that opens automatically when you approach with the key fob

The charging port sits on the driver's side of the car, roughly midway between the front and rear wheels. When you press the unlock button on your key fob or touch the car's door handle, the cover pops open automatically — you do not need to manually push or pull anything. The port itself is a standard SAE J1772 connector, which is the North American plug type used by most Level 1 and Level 2 chargers.

This automatic cover design is one of the i8's distinctive features. It protects the port from weather and road debris when the car is parked. If the motorized mechanism ever fails, you can manually open the cover by pressing a small release button inside the cover's edge, though this is rarely necessary.

Key Takeaways

  • The charging port is located on the driver's side of the 2015 i8, behind a motorized cover that opens when you unlock the car.
  • The port uses the SAE J1772 connector standard, compatible with most public Level 1 and Level 2 charging stations across North America.
  • A manual release button inside the cover edge allows you to open it by hand if the motorized mechanism fails.
  • The i8 comes with a portable Level 1 charger in the trunk that works with any standard 120-volt household outlet.

What charger types work with the 2015 i8

The i8 accepts both Level 1 and Level 2 charging. Level 1 uses a standard household 120-volt outlet and comes with the car as a portable charger — you can plug it in anywhere. Level 1 adds roughly 2 to 3 miles of range per hour of charging, so it is slow but requires no installation.

Level 2 chargers use 240 volts and are either installed at home or found at public charging networks. A Level 2 session adds 10 to 15 miles of range per hour, depending on the charger's power output. The i8's battery is relatively small — 7.1 kilowatt-hours — so a full charge on Level 2 typically takes 1.5 to 2 hours.

The 2015 i8 does not support DC fast charging, which is the third charging type. This means you cannot use Tesla Superchargers or other high-speed networks. For road trips, you will rely on Level 2 chargers, which are more common but slower.

Opening the cover if it gets stuck

The motorized cover is reliable, but if it fails to open when you unlock the car, you have a manual backup. Look for a small recessed button or lever on the inside edge of the cover — it is usually marked with a small arrow or symbol. Press or pull this release, and the cover will swing open enough for you to access the port.

If the cover is stuck closed and you cannot find or operate the manual release, do not force it. Contact a BMW service center instead. Forcing a stuck motorized cover can damage the mechanism further and create a more expensive repair.

Charging at home versus public stations

Home charging is the most convenient option for i8 owners. If you have a garage or driveway, installing a Level 2 charger costs between $500 and $2,000 for the equipment and installation, depending on your electrical setup. Once installed, you can charge overnight and start each day with a full battery. For daily commuting, this is usually the only charging method you will need.

Public charging is useful for longer trips or if you do not have home charging. Networks like ChargePoint, Electrify America, and Evgo have Level 2 stations at shopping centers, parking garages, and rest areas. You will need an account and payment method with each network, though many offer monthly memberships that reduce per-session costs. The i8's small battery means you can reach most public chargers within its electric range, so you are not stranded between stations.

The portable Level 1 charger that comes with the car

Your 2015 i8 includes a portable Level 1 charger in the trunk. This charger has a standard three-prong plug on one end and the SAE J1772 connector on the other. You can use it at any 120-volt outlet — your home, a friend's house, a hotel, or a parking lot with outdoor outlets.

Keep this charger in your car or at home. It is your backup if you are away from home and need to top up, or if your installed Level 2 charger is ever out of service. The charger itself is durable and weather-resistant, but store it in a dry place when not in use to extend its lifespan.

Maintenance and care for the charging port

The charging port requires minimal maintenance. Keep the cover and port clean and dry. If dirt or salt accumulates around the port opening, wipe it away with a dry cloth before plugging in a charger. Do not spray water directly into the port or cover mechanism.

Inspect the port visually every few months. If you notice corrosion, discoloration, or loose connections, have a BMW technician inspect it before using the charger again. The SAE J1772 connector is designed to be durable, but damage to the pins or housing can prevent a proper connection and create a safety hazard.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I charge the 2015 i8 with a Tesla Supercharger?

No. The i8 uses the SAE J1772 connector, and Tesla Superchargers use Tesla's proprietary connector. You would need an adapter, and even then, the i8 does not support the DC fast-charging protocol that Superchargers use. Stick to Level 1 and Level 2 chargers designed for SAE J1772 vehicles.

What happens if the motorized cover opens while I am driving?

The cover is designed to open only when the car is unlocked and parked. While driving, the cover will not open. If it somehow opens at speed, it will not damage the charging port or affect the car's operation — the port is recessed and protected. straightforward park and close the cover manually using the release button.

How long does a full charge take on Level 2?

A full charge from empty to full on Level 2 typically takes 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on the charger's power output (usually 3.3 kilowatts or 6.6 kilowatts). A 6.6-kilowatt charger will charge faster than a 3.3-kilowatt charger. Most public Level 2 chargers are 6.6 kilowatts or higher.

Is the portable Level 1 charger safe to leave plugged in overnight?

Yes. The charger and the i8's onboard charging system are designed for overnight charging. The car will stop charging automatically once the battery is full, so leaving it plugged in does not overcharge or damage the battery. This is the normal way most i8 owners charge at home.