Recent official images from the BMW factory in Munich show that the fully electric BMW i3 sedan, slated for release in 2027, is in its final stages before commercial production, a move that represents a significant shift in the company’s strategy towards electric vehicles.
A source at BMW stated that the core development of the car has been completed, while the factory is currently focused on refining the production process in preparation for the official launch planned for late 2026.
The new i3 is part of BMW’s next generation of electric vehicles, built on the “Neue Klasse” platform designed to be the foundation for the German brand’s future lineup of electric cars, following the success BMW achieved with the electric iX3 model.
Expected Specifications
- Powerful Electric Drive System:
The i3 is expected to share many technical details with its sibling, the iX3, such as two electric motors generating up to approximately 463 horsepower with an all-wheel-drive system. - Large Battery with Long Range:
Expectations point to a battery of around 112 kilowatt-hours that could provide a driving range of up to approximately 400 miles (around 640 kilometers) according to the EPA estimation system. - New and Sporty Design:
Leaked images show sleek lines and a distinctive design that blends the character of a luxury sports car with aerodynamic efficiency, although the car is still covered in camouflage. - BMW has not shown the rear of this car, but we can observe that the trunk is high and boxy.
Observations of previous prototypes suggest the taillights will have a high-mounted design similar to those on the iX3.
Production and Launch
The images show that BMW has begun producing pre-series models at its Munich factory, indicating that full production will begin in the second half of 2026, while the car is expected to reach global markets during the same period or in early 2027.
The new i3 comes as part of a broader BMW strategy to strengthen its presence in the electric vehicle market, following the company’s announcement that it will launch around 40 new or updated models by 2027, all built on advanced electric platforms.
