BMW's Big Shift: Your Questions Answered

Daily Car

·

07/11/2025

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What is the major change happening at BMW?

From the second half of 2026, BMW will assemble the fully electric i3 sedan at its main Munich plant. The factory has housed the petrol 3 Series without interruption since the model debuted in 1975 - giving the floor space to the electric model represents a clear break with tradition.

Does this mean BMW is discontinuing the petrol powered 3 Series?

Production of the 3 Series is not coming to an end. BMW has not yet stated where it will build the next petrol generation - yet insiders expect the line to transfer to Dingolfing, the biggest BMW factory in Europe.

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What exactly is this new BMW i3?

The forthcoming i3 is a purpose built electric saloon conceived as an EV counterpart to the familiar 3 Series. It shares no parts with the box shaped i3 hatchback sold until a few years ago, nor with the electric i3 saloon that today is offered solely in China.

Will the new electric i3 and the petrol 3 Series be sold at the same time?

Dealers will stock both versions concurrently. The i3 will sit on the dedicated EV platform called "Neue Klasse." The eighth generation 3 Series will remain on the CLAR chassis, which supports petrol, hybrid or electric powertrains.

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What makes the "Neue Klasse" platform special?

Neue Klasse is the company's newest electric technology set. The first production demonstration, the iX3 crossover, already delivered an 800-volt battery pack capable of ultra rapid charging, highly efficient drive units and a long real world range. The coming i3 will bring the same hardware to the compact saloon class plus aim to match the prestige long attached to the petrol 3 Series.

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