BMW is making ready to launch one in all its most important electrical autos to this point: the 2027 BMW i3, a completely electrical sedan driving on the model’s next-generation Neue Klasse structure. Codenamed NA0 internally, this i3 is a far cry from the quirky hatchback it replaces. It represents a brand new step into the longer term—sleeker, extra superior, and engineered from the bottom up as an EV. Will probably be the second mannequin to make use of the Neue Klasse platform after the all-electric iX3 SUV, which enters manufacturing later this yr.
Sequence manufacturing of the i3 sedan is scheduled to start in July 2026 at BMW’s Munich plant. This manufacturing facility is within the midst of a serious transition and can produce solely electrical autos by the top of 2027, an enormous shift for a plant identified principally for combustion-powered fashions and engine manufacturing. Fashions for the U.S. market will start rolling off the road in November 2026, with manufacturing help from BMW’s San Luis Potosi (SLP) plant in Mexico. Manufacturing for Europe will proceed by way of October 2034, indicating BMW sees a protracted life cycle forward for this automobile.
The Mannequin Lineup
The mannequin lineup will likely be numerous, encompassing a number of efficiency tiers that steadiness effectivity and sportiness. The vary is predicted to incorporate the i3 20, i3 40, i3 40 xDrive, i3 50, i3 50 xDrive, and the high-performance i3 M60 xDrive. Early studies level to spectacular technical figures: the i3 50 may ship as much as 900 kilometers (about 560 miles) of vary on a full cost, relying on market-specific check cycles. In the meantime, the i3 M60 xDrive is alleged to be able to producing as much as 630 horsepower, giving it severe efficiency credentials for the electrical period.
New Batteries and Motors
Powering the i3 lineup is BMW’s sixth-generation eDrive know-how. At its core is a new cylindrical battery cell format, which replaces the earlier prismatic and pouch cells with a extra environment friendly and compact design. These Gen6 batteries are a game-changer for BMW, providing a 20% improve in power density, 30% sooner charging, and as much as 25% higher vary. The battery structure is paired with next-generation electrical motors which are extra highly effective and environment friendly, additional enhancing the i3’s real-world usability and sustainability. Thermal administration has additionally improved, guaranteeing constant efficiency even below demanding circumstances.
Model New Inside Design
Inside, the 2027 i3 breaks from custom with a clear, tech-forward cabin constructed round BMW’s all-new iDrive X working system. Considered one of its most hanging options is the Panoramic Imaginative and prescient show—a full-width head-up projection system that spans the bottom of the windshield. The normal instrument cluster has been eradicated, opening up the dashboard and making a extra spacious, minimalist really feel. Info sometimes proven within the gauge cluster is now projected immediately into the motive force’s line of sight, assisted by a big central touchscreen show measuring 17.9 inches diagonally. The steering wheel has been redesigned as effectively, that includes spokes solely on the 12 and 6 o’clock positions to enhance ahead visibility and reinforce the futuristic cockpit structure.
BMW can also be specializing in sustainability and digital intelligence within the Neue Klasse inside, with recycled and renewable supplies used all through. The iDrive X system integrates AI-powered assistants, voice recognition, and over-the-air updates, making a consumer expertise that evolves and improves over time. Augmented actuality options, superior driver help techniques, and next-gen navigation instruments are all anticipated to be a part of the package deal.
A New Design Language
Design-wise, the 2027 BMW i3 sedan will carry over a lot of the visible id launched by the 2023 Imaginative and prescient Neue Klasse idea. Spy photographs verify a minimalist aesthetic with a closed-off kidney grille, slim LED lighting, pop-out door handles, and aerodynamic wheels. It’s unclear whether or not BMW will provide a frunk, like they did within the unique i3 hatchback. BMW will embody although the NACS charging port which can give them entry to a variety of charging stations.
We count on the primary NA0 BMW i3 fashions to reach in the US in early 2027.
First revealed by https://www.bmwblog.com
