The end of the BMW i4? The new i3 is currently taking over from the i4

BMW, an iconic name in the automotive industry, is entering a new phase in terms of the electrification of its range. A little while ago, the German manufacturer officially presented the new i3 model, a complete reinterpretation of the concept of the electric sedan in the modern era, an essential part of its strategy within the new Neue Klasse family. And the news that surprised many is that, at least for now, this i3 seems to take on the role of successor to the i4 model. What does this move mean for BMW and the future of electric sedans? Let’s see how things are.

BMW i3: the rebirth of a name with tradition, a technological revolution

For fans of the brand, the name «i3» may sound familiar, but the new i3 represents a new generation, completely distinct from the old electric sedan launched in 2013. In 2024, the BMW i3 becomes the fully electric version of the well-known 3 Series: a compact sedan, aimed at markets that increasingly demand autonomy, cutting-edge technology and contemporary design. This is the second new model under the Neue Klasse umbrella, a concept that promises to reinvent the manufacturer’s platform for decades to come.

Among the most impressive technological features is an 800V architecture, technology that allows for very fast charging and superior energy management. Therefore, the i3 can benefit from a maximum charging power of up to 400 kW – a level that can theoretically bring the battery from 10% to 80% in just a few minutes, a performance that is difficult to match in the segment. Furthermore, the maximum range announced by BMW is up to 900 kilometers according to the WLTP cycle, an exceptional figure for an electric vehicle of this class.

BMW i4: what place does it have in this whole story?

The BMW i4, launched a few years ago as a remix proposal of the 4 Series line in a 100% electric version, has until now been one of the main protagonists of the Bavarian company’s electric portfolio. However, with the arrival of the new i3, launched under the aegis of the Neue Klasse and equipped with advanced technologies, BMW’s strategies seem to be moving towards a different positioning of its electric models.

BMW has not officially announced the end of the i4, but the tone of the official messages suggests a «pause» or at least a change of perspective, with the new i3 seen as the current successor to the i4, at least for now. This situation indicates the transition to a common, more sophisticated platform, which offers superior performance both in terms of autonomy and in terms of integration of the latest innovations in the field of electrification.

Why is the Neue Klasse era so important?

The new wave of BMW models with the Neue Klasse logo marks a revolution in the way the brand’s electric cars are designed. The cutting-edge modular platform is designed to offer maximum flexibility, extended battery life and ultra-fast charging, all in a clean and refined design. It is clear that BMW is betting on a new holistic approach, not just the simple introduction of electric vehicles.

This platform promises to be the technological support of the next generation of BMW models, with lighter materials, more efficient engines and advanced software integration, both for interaction with the driver and for the management of autonomy and electronic systems.

What expectations do we have for the Romanian market?

On the Romanian market, interest in electric vehicles continues to grow exponentially and the launch of a model with extended range and fast charging like the new BMW i3 can change the dynamics of preferences. If the prices and sales conditions are convenient, the model has all the prerequisites to become a real competitor to the top electric models in the premium segment.

Furthermore, the impressive range of up to 900 kilometers in the WLTP regime eliminates one of the biggest purchase barriers for customers: the fear of reduced range. Furthermore, fast charging at 400 kW significantly reduces the time needed to refuel, transforming driving an electric vehicle into an experience much closer to that offered by classic petrol engines.

Conclusion: BMW i4 retreats, i3 advances on the electrification map

What is certain is that BMW is setting a new course in its electric history. The i4 model, once a star in the electric portfolio, seems to be eclipsed by the new generation i3, which brings new breath and pushes the current limits of technology. The Neue Klasse strategy demonstrates the Bavarians’ firm intention to dominate the premium segment in the era of electric cars and suggests that the future belongs to the models built on this revolutionary platform.

For enthusiasts and potential buyers in Romania, the new BMW i3 brings the hope of a truly high-performance electric sedan, balancing impressive range, fast charging and cutting-edge technology, all under a modern and attractive formula.

It remains to be seen what other surprises BMW has in store for us on the road to electrification, but one thing is clear: the new era of electric sedans begins now, and the BMW i3 is one of the leaders of this change.

For lovers of cars and automotive technology, stay tuned for further insights and news from the world of electric cars and beyond!