BMW's All-Electric i3 Sedan Opens for European Pre-Orders Starting at €65,900

On June 18, the BMW Group announced that reservations for its all-new Neue Klasse i3 all-electric sedan are now open in European markets. Initially, only the i3 50 xDrive variant will be available, featuring dual-motor all-wheel drive and BMW’s sixth-generation eDrive electric powertrain. The system delivers a combined output of 345 kW (469 hp) and peak torque of 645 N·m, enabling the vehicle to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 4.7 seconds. The new model is offered in two versions: the base i3 50 xDrive starts at €65,900, while the i3 50 xDrive First Edition starts at €75,340 in Germany. Both variants are equipped with a 108.7 kWh battery pack, offering WLTP-rated ranges of 912 km for the base model and 906 km for the First Edition. Built on BMW’s dedicated Neue Klasse (New Class) EV platform, the long-wheelbase version of the Neue Klasse i3 made its global debut in China on April 22 and is scheduled to enter production by BMW Brilliance Automotive in the fourth quarter of 2024. The cabin emphasizes a “driver-centric” design, featuring a 17.9-inch borderless central touchscreen, a 43.3-inch panoramic display at eye level, a 3D head-up display, a bespoke multifunction steering wheel, three-zone automatic climate control, power-adjustable multifunction seats, and a Harman Kardon sound system. The interior is expected to feature a white-and-gray two-tone color scheme. Additionally, due to adjustments in its product cycle, BMW will temporarily halt production in July of three all-electric models manufactured in China—the i3, i5, and iX1. The i3 and iX1 have been confirmed as discontinued, while it remains uncertain whether production of the i5 will resume. BMW stated that this adjustment will not affect the full lifecycle after-sales service and benefits for existing owners and recent buyers, and these models will remain available through dealer channels.