BMW is reportedly giving the green light to two new electric models, the i1 and i2, as part of its efforts to offer more affordable alternatives in its electric car lineup. These new models will be sold alongside updated versions of the combustion-powered 1 Series and 2 Series. The i1 is expected to be available as a hatchback or a saloon, while the i2 will be a compact crossover with a possible coupe bodystyle. The i2 is being described as a spiritual successor to BMW’s debut electric car, the i3 hatchback.
According to BMW product boss Bernd Körber, the company is committed to its entry-level models like the 1 Series and 2 Series as they help connect with younger customers and develop the brand in certain markets. Körber sees an opportunity for BMW to grow its market share with the retirement of rival Mercedes-Benz’s A-Class. He also confirmed that the i2 will be based on the NBx platform, which will offer either standard front-wheel drive or optional four-wheel drive.
The new i1 and i2 models will be based on the new dedicated Neue Klasse electric car architecture, which supports an 800V electric architecture designed to accommodate various electric drivetrains. The Neue Klasse platform includes two variants: NBx for front- and four-wheel drive, and NAx for rear- and four-wheel drive. The iX1 and Mini Countryman are also expected to switch from the 400V FAAR platform to the 800V NBx platform.
BMW plans to introduce new cylindrical battery cells with improved performance as part of its Neue Klasse range of models. The batteries will have a standard diameter of 46mm and two different lengths. The sixth-generation battery will be used in future models and is expected to provide much-improved performance. The Neue Klasse range is set to launch in 2025, with BMW planning to build six new cars on this electric architecture within the following 24 months.
The Neue Klasse not only introduces a new electric architecture but also includes next-generation software and connectivity functionality that will be rolled out across all future BMW models. BMW aims to unify its portfolio so that all models have the same look, feel, and capabilities. The company plans to update its entire portfolio with a single push of a button.
Overall, BMW’s decision to add the i1 and i2 to its electric car lineup is a strategic move to provide more affordable options and attract younger customers. The use of the dedicated Neue Klasse electric car architecture will allow for improved performance and greater flexibility in drivetrain options. With the retirement of the Mercedes-Benz A-Class, BMW sees an opportunity to increase its market share with its entry-level models like the 1 Series. The introduction of new cylindrical battery cells and the unification of its portfolio will further enhance BMW’s position in the electric car market.