BMW’S FUTURE ELECTRIC CAR LINE-UP

BMW’S sole electric production car to date is the i3. But while that’s a bespoke EV, the firm has now committed to offering electric versions of existing models in the coming years, starting with the ix3 in 2021. Here are all the cars – some confirmed, some not – that are under development.

BMW i1

An electric extension to the new 1 Series line-up. Like its sister model, the ix1 crossover, it will be based on the FAAR platform. Key competitors will include the Volkswagen ID 3.

BMW ix1

The ix1 is based on the thirdgeneration X1 small SUV, due in 2022, and described by BMW insiders as an indirect replacement for the original i3, with a raised seating position and relatively compact dimensions.

BMW i3

The new i3, although not yet confirmed, will be based on the i4 fastback but take its styling from the 3 Series saloon. Insiders don’t rule out the possibility of a 3 Series Touring-based estate.

BMW ix3

This rear-wheel-drive SUV, planned to go on UK sale in 2021, is based on the current X3. It’s the first to use BMW’S fifth-generation electric drive system and new battery technology that will soon be adopted by other BMW EVS.

BMW i4

The i4 is based on the new second-generation 4 Series

Gran Coupé and targeted directly at the Tesla Model 3. Customers will be offered various power outputs, with the range-topper tipped to deliver 523bhp.

BMW i5

The eighth-generation 5 Series, due in 2023, will spawn an electric model. The i5 will initially be a saloon, but an estate version could be offered in some markets. Competitors will include the production version of the Volkswagen ID Vizzion and the Mercedes-benz EQE.

BMW ix5

Already in pilot-production at BMW’S Dingolfing factory and due in 2021, the SUV that started life as the inext concept offers a base range of 340 miles, rising to 460 miles with an optional 110kwh battery. It’s also planned to support level-three autonomous technology.

BMW i7

BMW’S future EV flagship is based on the next 7 Series saloon, which is due in 2022. Insiders suggest it will share much of its mechanicals with the i5 and ix5 and achieve a range of up to 460 miles.

BMW ix7

It has yet to be approved, but sources suggest that ix7 design proposals have been developed. If given the green light, the ix5’s seven-seat sister will land in about 2025.