BMW’s Neue Klasse period is about to enter full swing with the upcoming BMW i3 Sedan (NA0), the model’s next-generation electrical 3 Sequence. Constructed totally on the brand new Neue Klasse platform, this isn’t a modified model of immediately’s G20 3 Sequence — it’s a clean-sheet electrical structure and design that may outline BMW’s future lineup of sedans. After the iX3 (NA5) kicks issues off in 2025-2026, the i3 Sedan will observe in 2026 because the second Neue Klasse mannequin, combining long-range effectivity, ultra-fast charging, and promising nice BMW dynamics.
Manufacturing and Timeline
Sequence manufacturing of the i3 Sedan will start in July 2026 at BMW’s Munich Plant, which can turn into one of many first BMW services totally devoted to electric-vehicle manufacturing. In keeping with sources, U.S.-spec manufacturing is scheduled to begin in November 2026, with Europe-bound deliveries starting across the identical time. The performance-focused i3 M60 xDrive is predicted to enter manufacturing in March 2027. European manufacturing is deliberate to proceed by October 2034, signaling that BMW expects this to be a long-running core mannequin.
Mannequin Lineup
As of now, the BMW i3 (NA0) is predicted to launch with the next variations, but remember the fact that none of those have been confirmed by BMW at this level:
- i3 20 – entry-level single-motor mannequin
- i3 40 – mid-range rear-wheel-drive variant
- i3 40 xDrive – dual-motor all-wheel drive
- i3 50 – high-output long-range model
- i3 50 xDrive – xDrive variant and first launch mannequin in America
- i3 M60 xDrive – high-performance flagship
Sources point out the i3 50 xDrive would be the launch model, with the 40 xDrive and M60 xDrive becoming a member of the lineup inside a yr.
Powertrain and Battery Know-how
The i3 Sedan will function BMW’s sixth-generation eDrive system, first previewed within the iX3 SUV. This next-gen structure introduces cylindrical battery cells rather than prismatic models, offering:
- 20 % increased power density
- 30 % sooner charging functionality
- 25 % higher total effectivity
The brand new batteries function on an 800-volt structure, enabling charging speeds of as much as 405 kW within the iX3. We anticipate comparable charging speeds within the increased priced i3 fashions. BMW says the system can get well roughly 350 kilometers (217 miles) of vary (WLTP cycle) in 10 minutes underneath superb situations.
As earlier than, each rear- and all-wheel-drive configurations might be obtainable, however all the time with a rear-wheel drivetrain as the start line. Thermal administration and power restoration techniques have additionally been redesigned to enhance consistency underneath high-load driving.
Vary and Charging
The Neue Klasse i3 Sedan will share a lot of its electrical structure with the iX3 50 xDrive however ought to profit from improved aerodynamics and decrease weight. BMW is quoting a WLTP most vary of 500 miles (805 km WLTP) for the iX3, and insiders recommend the i3 Sedan may attain an analogous vary, once more on the WLTP cycle. EPA estimates are all the time decrease. In North America, the i3 will undertake the NACS (North American Charging Commonplace) port, giving homeowners entry to Tesla’s Supercharger community alongside different networks.
Inside and Know-how
Inside, the Neue Klasse i3 will debut BMW’s iDrive X working system, that includes a simplified consumer interface and enhanced voice interplay. A brand new Panoramic Imaginative and prescient show initiatives data throughout the bottom of the windshield, changing conventional instrument clusters.
A 17.9-inch heart show serves as the first infotainment hub, whereas the steering wheel’s minimalist design will function haptic buttons. Sustainable supplies, renewable materials, and superior ambient lighting will set the tone for BMW’s next-generation cabin aesthetic.
Design and Exterior Particulars
Current spy photographs reveal the i3 Sedan carrying what look like production-ready headlights and taillights, marking a transition from idea to actuality. The automobile adopts elongated kidneys built-in with slim LED headlights, echoing the Imaginative and prescient Neue Klasse’s design language.
Retractable door handles, a smoothed-out physique floor, and new aero wheel designs enhance effectivity and provides the i3 a futuristic but daring presence. Camouflage nonetheless conceals finer particulars across the rear quarter and Hofmeister kink, however the total silhouette confirms a robust resemblance to the next-generation 3 Sequence (G50).
BMW is testing each left- and right-hand-drive prototypes, confirming international market availability from the outset.
Competitors and Positioning
BMW is positioning the i3 Sedan squarely towards the Tesla Mannequin 3, Polestar 2, and upcoming electrical sedans from Mercedes-Benz and Audi. The i3 50 xDrive will doubtless rival the Tesla Mannequin 3 Lengthy Vary in each worth and efficiency, whereas the M60 xDrive may compete immediately with the Mannequin 3 Efficiency and higher-end Lucid Air Pure.
With a projected beginning worth round $50,000 within the U.S., the i3 Sedan is predicted to function the electrical equal of the present 330i — providing BMW’s signature dynamics in a totally electrical type.
