BMW1 Series Goes Electric, Redefining Affordable Electric Car Segment Eying Younger Buyers

Jun 20, 2024 09:55 PM EDT

CAR BMW NEW WHITE BLACK — (Photo : PIXABAY/ Flachovatereza)

Exciting developments awaits BMW's lineup. The brand is set to revolutionize the 1 Series with an electric hatchback, transforming it into an innovative EV option targeting younger buyers.

BMW 1 Series Transform: i1 and i2 EV Models

Fresh off its recent debut, the latest iteration of the BMW 1 Series has sparked a flurry of activity within BMW's engineering labs. The automotive giant is actively crafting a range of compact electric vehicles. The go signal for upcoming electric i1 and i2 models marks a significant step towards other affordable electric car options.

BMW is taking a strategic move as it plans to transform the 1 Series into an affordable electric car. This one is an attempt to attract the interest of younger buyes. In addition to redefining the current 1 and 2 Series lineup, this change will mark the introduction of the cutting-edge i1 and i2 electric vehicles, ushering in a new age for BMW driving.

According to AutoCar, the upcoming electric models are currently undergoing advanced development at the prestigious FIZ R&D facility in Munich. These future additions to BMW's electric vehicle portfolio will be introduced alongside refreshed versions of the existing combustion-powered 1 and 2 Series models towards the end of this decade.

The primary objective is to offer customers more affordable electric car within BMW's electric vehicle range, which presently commences with the iX1 priced at £46,205.

Anticipated to offer versatility, the i1 is projected to be available in hatchback or saloon configurations, while the i2 is set to emerge as a compact crossover model with the possibility of a coupe variant. Industry insiders have likened the i2 to a modern interpretation of BMW's groundbreaking electric pioneer, the i3 hatchback, which made its debut in 2013 and discontinued in 2022.

In a recent discussion with Autocar, BMW's product head, Bernd Körber, emphasized the company's strategic aim to expand its presence across diverse markets and establish meaningful connections with the younger buyers.

Körber highlighted the pivotal role played by entry-level offerings such as the 1 Series and 2 Series in engaging with this target audience and fostering brand loyalty among the next generation of customers.

Pricing,Arrival, BMW 1 Series Electric Car

As detailed by CarBuzz, BMW insiders stated that the i1 and i2 models that will soon be available will provide consumers looking for more affordable electric options with more affordable possibilities. Although the $52,200 i4 eDrive35 is now the least expensive BMW EV offered in the United States, it might not be affordable to everyone.

Although customers abroad have access to the iX1 crossover, this model is not currently offered in the American market. The i1 is anticipated to hit the market in sedan or hatchback variants, with expectations leaning heavily towards the latter style.

On the other hand, the i2 is poised to make its entrance as both a crossover and a sleek coupe-inspired model, with internal sources hinting at its role as a spiritual successor to the now-retired i3.

While anticipation builds for their debut, the i1 is projected to make its grand entrance in 2027, with the i2 slated to follow suit a year after. Diverging from the conventions of the existing 1 Series and 2 Series models, these forthcoming electric vehicles will be underpinned by the cutting-edge Neue Klasse platform, marking a significant technological leap for BMW.

According to insights shared in Electrek's coverage, BMW is eyeing an opportunity presented by Mercedes-Benz's decision to phase out the A-Class by 2026. Bernd Koerber highlighted this development as a strategic opening for BMW, suggesting that the absence of the A-Class could pave the way for an electric 1 Series to capture a larger share of the market.