BREAKING NEWS: BMW has just announced the highly anticipated return of the i3 nameplate, this time reimagined as an electric saloon based on the cutting-edge Neue Klasse platform. The new model, designed to rival the popular 3 Series, is set to begin production at their state-of-the-art facility in Munich later this year.
New reports confirm that BMW is rolling out the first near-series test vehicles of the i3, marking a significant milestone in the carmaker’s transition to electric vehicles. The production phase, which is already underway, signifies the final preparations for this groundbreaking sedan, with the first units expected to hit the assembly line in the latter half of 2023.
The Munich plant is now at the forefront of BMW’s innovative manufacturing technologies and digitally connected processes. This development is especially noteworthy as it represents the first time BMW will produce the i3 entirely on-site, showcasing the factory’s modernized press, body shop, paint shop, and assembly area.
Peter Weber, head of BMW’s Munich factory, emphasized the importance of this production milestone: “This marks a new chapter for us, as the i3 is the first BMW to pass through all production steps at our Munich facility, ensuring a streamlined and future-ready manufacturing process.”
The all-new i3 will be built on BMW’s 800-volt Neue Klasse platform, which promises significant advancements in electric vehicle technology. This platform can accommodate up to four next-generation electric motors and the latest NMW batteries featuring BMW’s innovative Gen6 cylindrical cells, designed for enhanced energy density.
While specific details about the i3’s powertrain remain under wraps, previous models like the iX3 hint at impressive capabilities. The iX3 boasts a claimed range of 805 km on a full charge, raising expectations for the new i3 saloon.
As BMW accelerates towards an electric future, this latest development underscores the company’s commitment to sustainability and advanced automotive technology.
What’s next? The automotive industry is eager to see how the i3 will perform in real-world scenarios and what features will set it apart in the competitive electric vehicle market. With production ramping up, industry experts and consumers alike will be closely monitoring any further announcements.
Stay tuned for more updates as this story develops. The return of the i3 not only marks a significant moment for BMW but also represents a broader shift in the automotive landscape toward electrification.
