The BMW i3 electric sedan is in the final stages of development, with the first pre-production vehicles now assembled at the automaker’s Munich plant. These models are being used to optimize the manufacturing process before the official launch scheduled for the second half of 2026.
Production Process Fine-Tuning
BMW confirmed that the first pre-series vehicles have rolled off the production line. This means the core engineering of the i3 is complete, and the focus is now on streamlining assembly for a smooth market introduction. The next several months will be dedicated to refining the production process and ironing out any inefficiencies.
Powertrain Expectations
Although BMW hasn’t released final specifications, industry experts anticipate the i3 will share key powertrain components with the existing iX3 electric SUV. The top-spec iX3, in its 50 xDrive configuration, delivers 463 horsepower via a dual-motor all-wheel-drive system paired with a 112-kWh battery.
- Range: Estimates suggest an EPA range of around 400 miles.
- Charging: The i3 is expected to support ultra-fast charging at up to 400 kilowatts, potentially adding up to 230 miles of range in approximately 10 minutes.
Final Reveal Imminent
BMW is expected to unveil the production-ready i3 before the start of full production in late 2026. The current test vehicles are heavily camouflaged, but the automaker has released official photos providing the clearest look yet at the new electric sedan.
The BMW i3 represents a key step in the company’s broader EV strategy, signaling a commitment to expanding its electric lineup. This final phase of preparation suggests BMW is on track to deliver a competitive electric sedan with high performance and fast-charging capabilities.
