BMW’s compact class goes electrical. BMW plans to revamp its 1 Series lineup by introducing a budget-friendly electric variant, capitalizing on the demographic’s affinity for eco-friendly vehicles. BMW’s 1 Series and several other series will introduce i1 and i2 electric vehicle models.
Two new electric vehicles are already gaining momentum in Munich. According to insiders, BMW intends to position its electrified 1 Series and several M models alongside their gasoline-powered counterparts for enhanced customer appeal.
BMW is expanding its product portfolio by entering new market segments and striving to capture the attention of younger generations of car buyers. According to reports, the BMW i4 will offer the option of a fully electric hatchback or sedan variant, joining the existing range of electrified models from the German automaker. Meanwhile, sources reveal that the i2 would serve as the non-secular successor to the i3.
Bernd Koerber, Head of Product and Model Administration at BMW, emphasized the need for the company to “connect with the younger generation” and expand its presence across all markets.
“In reality, their pricing strategy has resulted in decreased profitability; nonetheless, it effectively targets young customers and boosts brand recognition in specific markets,” Koerber explained.
BMW’s product chief reaffirmed their commitment to the segment, stating “We’re pleased to see two manufacturers thriving here, with Mini playing a significant role.”
BMW targets young customers with affordable electric 1-series EV.
As Mercedes-Benz confirms its exit from the compact car market by phasing out the A-Class by 2026, BMW views this development as an opportunity to strengthen its position. As new market entrants emerge, such as the electric A-Class, Koerber hypothesizes that a one-sequence electric vehicle could potentially claim market share.
The Electrical 1 sequence is expected to debut in 2027, followed by the i2 in 2028. Although slated for release alongside gasoline-powered variants, the forthcoming 1 and 2 Series EVs will ride on BMW’s modular Neue Klasse platform.
BMW unveiled its Neue Klasse platform in September, offering a glimpse into the brand’s environmentally conscious and technologically advanced automotive vision.
BMW reveals its electric vehicle strategy with the Neue Klasse sedan and X concepts, previewing the marque’s sustainable mobility direction. BMW’s new electric vehicle lineup, dubbed the “New Class,” is poised to impress with its enhanced capabilities, boasting 30% greater range, 30% faster charging times, and a 25% boost in efficiency.
According to BMW’s CEO Oliver Zipse, the company plans to introduce a total of six all-electric vehicles within a timeframe of 24 months, encompassing both Sport Activity Vehicles (SAVs) and sedans.
Meanwhile, additional options could support diverse styles. Sources close to BMW confirm that two distinct variants are in development: the NBx and NAx models. While the previous models cater to entrance-and-four-wheel-drive enthusiasts, as well as those seeking rear- and four-wheel electric vehicles, respectively.
The Neue Klass sedan and SUV are expected to ride on the NAx platform, while the brand’s inaugural electric 1 and 2 models will debut on the NBx architecture.
BMW is poised to debut its inaugural Neue Klasse model, a sedan, in 2025. It’s likely that this technology will be integrated into SUVs.
