BMW Will Maintain the 1 Series and Enhance It with the i1 Electric Vehicle | Carscoops

      The upcoming generation of the 1 Series will utilize shared components with Mini, aimed at lowering expenses and enhancing efficiency.

      BMW is committed to remaining in the small car market as it prepares to replace the existing 1 Series.

      The next iteration of the 1 Series is anticipated to debut in 2028 and is likely to share its platform with Mini.

      The new 1 Series will probably be available as an “i1” electric vehicle alongside traditional gasoline models.

      BMW's initial venture into the small electric car market with the i3 was polarizing; people either embraced its innovative technology and lounge-like interior or were deterred by its unconventional design and puzzling market position. Regardless, BMW appears ready to re-enter the small electric vehicle sector but will take time to reflect on past experiences first.

      Previously, it was reported that the i1 and i2 entry-level EVs could arrive by 2027 and 2028.

      The i3 ceased production in 2023, and there was no immediate successor aimed at small electric vehicle consumers. Some speculated that BMW might exit the small car segment entirely, mirroring the choices of its competitors. However, Bernd Koerber, Senior Vice President of BMW’s Brand and Product Management, confirmed that the company intends to retain the 1 Series, with a new generation expected around 2028.

      Will the i3 Transition to the i1?

      The original i3 served both as a production vehicle and a market experiment, leading to potential confusion with today's naming conventions for electric BMWs. The i3 name will soon be reassigned to electric versions of the upcoming eighth-generation 3 Series.

      So, what does this mean for the new compact electric vehicle? The forthcoming model is anticipated to be introduced alongside the new generation of the 1 Series, both expected to showcase designs and platforms influenced by BMW’s Neue Klasse philosophy.

      BMW's Commitment to the Small Car Segment

      As Audi reduces production of the A1 and Q2 and Mercedes prepares to discontinue the A-Class, some speculated that BMW might end the 1 Series lineup. However, Koerber denied this possibility.

      In an interview with AutoExpress, Koerber emphasized the necessity for BMW to maintain its presence in this segment. “If you remove the 1 [Series] from markets in Greece, Spain, or Italy, you lose a third of your business. Thus, for a global player, it’s essential to engage in relevant markets.”

      He also noted that having an entry-level model like the 1 Series significantly impacts the brand overall. “It’s crucial for the brand, as the 1 Series attracts a considerable share of younger drivers.”

      Increased Collaboration with Mini

      BMW might choose to reduce costs by leveraging the Neue Klasse platform, which allows for various layouts and wheelbases. Another benefit for BMW is the opportunity to share components with Mini for the next generation of the 1 Series.

      Koerber, who was also the senior vice president for Mini until 2022, stated that staying in the small car market would drive BMW to discover innovative and cost-effective solutions. These strategies could then be adapted for larger models, as BMW aims to maintain its competitiveness in cost management.