The Bavarians are marking a historic moment. The new BMW i3, the second model in the Neue Klasse electric vehicle series (after the iX3 SUV), has officially rolled off the assembly line at the main plant in Munich. The decision validates the radical transformation of one of the German group's most emblematic industrial facilities.
The Munich plant has been closely linked to the history of the 3 Series since 1975. Over the past half century, more than 9 million units have left the production lines of the Bavarian plant.
To make room for the vehicles of the new Neue Klasse era, the factory underwent an extensive and complex modernization process:
● Uninterrupted production: The reconfiguration work took place in parallel with the normal production flow, maintaining a pace of up to 1,000 vehicles assembled daily.
● State-of-the-art infrastructure: The project included the construction of a new body shop, a dedicated assembly line, the expansion of logistics areas and the development of a new delivery hall.
● In-house components: The essential components of the electric drive system (electric motor, inverter and transmission) are assembled directly on the plant lines.
● Complete transition to zero emissions: Starting in 2027, the Munich plant will assemble exclusively electric models, becoming the first traditional BMW factory to be fully converted for zero-emission vehicles.
Officially unveiled in mid-March, the i3 sedan brings major technological leaps to the Neue Klasse platform:
| Specification | BMW i3 50 xDrive (Estimated / Production) |
| Powertrain | Dual electric motors (xDrive all-wheel drive) |
| Peak Power | ~469 hp (345 kW) |
| Electrical Architecture | 800 Volts |
| DC Fast Charging | Up to 400 kW |
| Estimated Range (WLTP) | 750 – 900 km |
| Interior | Windshield-wide display (BMW Panoramic Vision) |
The first deliveries to the Romanian market are expected for the second half of 2026 and early 2027.
● BMW i3 First Edition: The launch edition, generously equipped as standard with the complete Driving Assistant Plus assistance package, premium upholstery, BMW Digital Key Plus and panoramic screens, is estimated on the local market at a starting price of around 72,000 euros (including VAT).
● BMW i3 (base version): The standard series variant, available later, will have an estimated starting price of around 62,500 euros (including VAT).
The range will later be expanded with single-engine entry-level versions (rear-wheel drive), as well as a station wagon body variant (i3 Touring).