BMW is accelerating the rollout of its highly anticipated i3 electric vehicle in response to unprecedented demand, according to a report from Automobilwoche. The German automaker will begin taking orders for the '1st Edition' i3 this week in Germany, significantly ahead of the original planned rollout this fall.
The decision to advance the i3's launch underscores the growing appetite for electric vehicles in the market. While BMW has not disclosed the exact timing of the original rollout or the new order opening date, the move is seen as a strategic effort to capitalize on the current momentum in the EV sector.
The i3 is expected to boast an impressive range of approximately 440 miles, with a total output of 469 horsepower and 476 pound-feet of torque. The vehicle's battery pack can be recharged at up to 400 kilowatts, allowing for a 10-to-80% top-up in just 22 minutes. Additionally, the i3 will come equipped with vehicle-to-load (V2L) capabilities as standard, enabling owners to power external devices and appliances.
BMW has also confirmed that the i3 will feature a Tesla-style NACS port, with a CCS adapter included for added convenience. While the company has not provided details on pricing, U.S. sales are slated to commence in 2027.
The accelerated launch of the i3 raises questions about its potential impact on the production schedule of the electric 3 Series, which is still on track to begin assembly in August. As the EV market continues to evolve, BMW's aggressive strategy with the i3 may signal a broader shift in the company's electrification plans.