BMW’s compact class is stepping into the world of electric vehicles. The BMW 1 Series is becoming an affordable electric vehicle targeting young buyers. The BMW 1 and 2 Series will be launched as electric models named i1 and i2.
BMW 1 Series will be converted into an affordable electric vehicle for young buyers
These two new electric vehicles are in development in Munich. BMW plans to sell the electric 1 and 2 Series models alongside the gasoline versions. According to AutoCar, the BMW 1 Series will be available as an electric hatchback or sedan. Meanwhile, the i2 will be positioned as the “spiritual successor” to the i3.
Bernd Koerber, head of product and brand management, stated that BMW wants to “connect with the younger generation” and expand in all markets. Koerber emphasized that while the profitability of these vehicles may be low, they aim to attract young customers and develop BMW in certain markets.
With rival Mercedes-Benz withdrawing the A-Class from the market in 2026, BMW sees this as an opportunity. The electric 1 Series is expected to be released in 2027, followed by the i2 in 2028. These electric vehicles will be built on BMW’s Neue Klasse platform.
In September, BMW introduced the Neue Klasse electric vehicle platform. This platform represents the brand’s future high-tech and efficiency-focused electric vehicles. Neue Klasse electric vehicles will offer “30% more range, 30% faster charging, and 25% efficiency improvement.” BMW CEO Oliver Zipse announced that six Neue Klasse electric vehicles, ranging from SUVs to sedans, will be launched within the next 24 months.
Two special variants are being developed on the Neue Klasse platform: NBx and NAx. NBx is designed for front-wheel and all-wheel-drive models, while NAx is for rear-wheel and all-wheel-drive electric vehicles. The new electric 1 and 2 Series will be the first models to use the NBx platform.
BMW plans to launch the first Neue Klasse model, a sedan, in 2025, followed by an SUV model. Is BMW’s move to attract young buyers to the electric vehicle market successful? What do you think? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
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