08:38Machine-translated from Azerbaijani by AIRead in Azerbaijani
BMW is developing an affordable electric model that could debut in 2028
BMW is preparing to expand its electric vehicle lineup with a more affordable model. According to a report based on internal company information, the new compact electric vehicle, expected to be called the BMW i1, could be introduced to the European market in 2028.
According to BMW Blog, the vehicle, which has the internal code NB0, is being developed as a compact hatchback. Although its dimensions are expected to be close to those of the current BMW 1 Series, the two vehicles will not use the same platform. BMW has not yet officially disclosed the i1's design, body style, or technical specifications.
The new model is expected to be positioned between the all-electric Mini Cooper and the BMW iX1 and to become the brand's entry-level electric vehicle. At the same time, the current 1 Series will reportedly retain its front-wheel-drive design and remain in production until the early 2030s.
The BMW i1 is expected to be developed on the same technological platform as the larger i3 electric sedan. The vehicle's standard versions are therefore likely to have rear-wheel drive, while more powerful versions may use two electric motors.
Because of its compact dimensions and shorter wheelbase, the i1 is expected to use a smaller battery than the i3. The current i3 has 82.8 kWh and 108.7 kWh battery options and supports 300 or 400 kW fast charging, depending on the version. The more affordable i1 is likely to have a lower charging power. However, BMW has not yet confirmed these specifications.
According to the source, the i1 is being developed primarily for the European market, and there are currently no plans to sell the model in the US.
BMW is also continuing to introduce Neue Klasse technologies across its other vehicles. The company is reportedly preparing to unveil the all-electric iX4 in 2026. The vehicle is expected to be an SUV coupe based on the iX3 and to be manufactured at BMW's plant in Debrecen, Hungary.
With Neue Klasse, BMW is also updating its vehicles' electronic architecture. The new electrical and electronic system is intended to be introduced across various vehicle segments in the future, simplifying the design and enabling broader use of shared technologies.
The company is linking the next stage of its software development to the “AI-Defined Vehicle” concept. Under this approach, driver-assistance systems, multimedia, and comfort features are intended to work together more intelligently, taking the vehicle's current conditions into account rather than operating separately.
Most of the information about the BMW i1 is still based on internal company sources. BMW has not officially confirmed the model's 2028 debut, technical specifications, or price.