BMW speeds up i3 electric sedan orders as demand soars

BMW announced that it will open orders for the new i3 electric sedan weeks ahead of the planned autumn launch after customer demand outstripped expectations. The first “First Edition” model, the i3 50 xDrive, features dual electric motors delivering 469 hp, an 800‑volt architecture, 400 kW fast‑charging capability and a WLTP‑rated range of up to 912 km (≈560 mi). The launch price in Europe starts at €74,850 for the fully‑equipped First Edition, with a lower‑trim variant expected later. Production is set to begin at BMW’s Munich plant in August, with deliveries still scheduled for the fall.

The early opening of the order book was reported by Automobilwoche and confirmed by internal BMW sources; the company said the schedule for assembly will not change. Strong interest has been recorded across Europe and China, surpassing the response to the recently released iX3 SUV. BMW expects the i3 to solidify its position in the premium electric‑sedan segment and plans additional, less‑priced versions after the initial launch.

The move reflects BMW’s strategy to capitalize on the growing market for high‑performance EVs and to secure early sales momentum for the i3’s second generation under the Neue Klasse family.