The forthcoming Neue Klasse automobiles from BMW could initially take the type of electrical variations of the three Sequence and X3, however Munich has plans to increase the lineup quickly within the coming years. This may begin with compact EVs that can complement the petrol- and diesel-powered 1 and 2 Sequence, known as the i1 and i2.
In keeping with Autocar, sources says these fashions will present a extra inexpensive entry to BMW’s electrical lineup, which at present begins at RM249,800 for the iX1. The i1 shall be supplied in 2026 as a hatchback and, for the primary time for a 1 Sequence outdoors of China and Mexico, a sedan.
In the meantime, the i2 will arrive in 2027 as a type of crossover, albeit not the SUV sort as that will carry the “X” model. As an alternative, firm insiders are touting it as a non secular successor to the unique i3 hatchback – an electrical 2 Sequence Energetic Tourer, maybe? A “coupé” model of the i2 with a sleeker roofline can also be being developed.
The i1 and i2 shall be underpinned by a distinctly separate model of the Neue Klasse structure – the NBx for front-wheel-drive automobiles. The following i3 and iX3 will as a substitute sit of the NAx for rear-drive fashions, which can spawn two derivatives – the NDx platform for luxurious automobiles and a lightened ZDx for future BMW M sports activities automobiles.
Apart from the i1 and i2, the NBx can even type the idea of the next-generation iX1 (and presumably its sportier iX2 sibling) and MINI Countryman. These will enable these automobiles to reap the advantages of the Neue Klasse structure, specifically quick DC charging speeds by means of an 800-volt electrical structure, vehicle-to-load (V2L) performance and new, extra energy-dense batteries that swap out prismatic cells for cylindrical ones.
The corporate stays dedicated to the compact section at a time rivals like Mercedes-Benz and Audi are looking for to maneuver away from it. Product head Bernd Körber just lately advised the publication that BMW needs to develop in all markets and “join with the youthful era,” which fashions within the 1 and a pair of Sequence vary will entice.
“In fact they’ve decrease profitability however in addition they fulfil a distinct goal in getting youthful clients and creating [BMW] in sure markets,” Körber mentioned. “So sure, they’re nonetheless a part of our technique and it’s good that we’ve two manufacturers within the section, with in fact MINI enjoying an enormous position.”
Körber agreed with Autocar‘s suggestion that the departure of the Mercedes A-Class – which has just lately obtained a keep of execution however continues to be anticipated to be discontinued in 2026 – and the Audi A1 and Q2 will present BMW the chance for the 1 Sequence particularly to achieve market share.
The primary Neue Klasse fashions, the i3 and iX3, are mentioned to be within the “ultimate levels” of growth and are being readied for manufacturing. “We’ve got constructed the primary pre-series automobiles and have pushed them,” Körber mentioned, including that the brand new structure can even deliver next-generation software program and connectivity that shall be rolled out throughout all future BMW fashions.
Munich will revamp its portfolio in brief order to maintain its lineup wanting constant, with a brand new design language first seen within the Imaginative and prescient Neue Klasse and Imaginative and prescient Neue Klasse X to be utilized on all fashions. “We are going to change your complete portfolio inside a comparatively quick time period, in order that it has one appear and feel and likewise the identical capabilities,” mentioned Körber. “Our ambition is that we unify that in a manner that ideally one push of the button and your complete portfolio will get up to date.”
Seeking to promote your automobile? Promote it with Carro.
