BMW is reportedly accelerating the launch of its all-electric i3 sedan after strong customer interest prompted the company to bring forward the opening of order books for the model.
According to a report by German trade publication Automobilwoche, BMW dealerships will begin accepting orders for the i3 1st Edition on June 18, several months earlier than originally planned.
The move comes after the electric sedan generated significant attention following its global debut in March, with demand reportedly exceeding internal expectations.
Early Launch Driven by Strong Interest
BMW had initially planned to begin taking orders for the new i3 in autumn. However, interest in the vehicle since its unveiling has reportedly convinced the automaker to accelerate the process.
The publication cited company sources indicating that BMW wants to capitalize on the strong momentum surrounding the model, which has attracted attention from customers in Europe, Germany and China.
The electric sedan made its Chinese debut at the Beijing Auto Show, where it also reportedly received a positive market response.
Second Model Based on Neue Klasse Platform
The i3 is one of the first production vehicles built on BMW’s dedicated Neue Klasse electric vehicle architecture.
Following the upcoming iX3 SUV, the i3 will become the second model in BMW’s next-generation EV lineup and represents the electric evolution of the iconic 3 Series.
The new sedan introduces a redesigned exterior and incorporates BMW’s latest battery, software and drivetrain technologies developed specifically for the Neue Klasse platform.
Up to 900 Kilometers of Range
The first version scheduled for launch is the BMW i3 50 xDrive.
The model combines a dual-motor all-wheel-drive system producing 345 kW of power with a 108 kWh battery pack.
BMW has indicated a driving range of up to 900 kilometers, although final homologation figures have not yet been confirmed.
The vehicle utilizes an 800-volt electrical architecture capable of supporting charging rates of up to 400 kW.
According to BMW, the battery can be charged from 10% to 80% in approximately 21 minutes under optimal conditions.
The automaker says its sixth-generation electric drivetrain technology delivers improvements in efficiency, charging performance and overall driving dynamics compared with previous EV platforms.
Production Scheduled for August
Series production of the new i3 is expected to begin in August at BMW’s main manufacturing facility in Munich.
The model represents a key milestone in BMW’s broader electrification strategy, with the Neue Klasse platform expected to underpin a new generation of electric vehicles across multiple segments during the coming years.
As competition intensifies in the global EV market, the strong initial response to the i3 suggests BMW’s next-generation electric technology may be resonating with consumers looking for premium long-range electric vehicles.
If demand remains strong following the opening of order books, the i3 could become one of BMW’s most important electric vehicle launches to date and play a central role in the company’s transition toward a more electrified product portfolio.
