BMW is getting ready to unveil its all-new eighth-generation 3 Series (codenamed G50), as well as the fully electric alternative, the i3 (NAO), likely labelled as 2027 models. Some preliminary details have just been confirmed on the latter.
Yes, the BMW i3 badge is coming back. But it won’t be a funky city car. The i3 will become the electric alternative to the 3 Series. But don’t worry, petrol car fans, BMW will be launching a new 3 Series with combustion engines along side the i3.
For now BMW is previewing some details of the i3, including giving us a hint of its design direction. Although these photos show a heavily-camouflaged prototype sliding about on ice and snow, you can just make out the boxy shape, following the ‘Neue Klasse’ formula like the new iX3.
Speaking of which, underneath it all is the Neue Klasse platform (it’ll be the first sedan to adopt this layout) incorporating a sixth-gen electric drive system and the new ‘superbrain’ control unit. The control system includes four super computer systems, controlling the powertrain, brakes, steering, and regeneration to provide optimum efficiency and dynamic performance. This is all under something BMW calls the ‘Heart of Joy’ philosophy. BMW says:
“The Heart of Joy reduces the number of control interventions required – for example by the DSC system. The resulting cornering behaviour is more consistent and reproducible, giving the driver an even greater sense of assurance. In addition, the BMW i3 remains easy to control even when approaching the limits.”
So it seems like the new i3 is being developed to offer a high level of driver enjoyment and engagement, following in the footsteps of the 3 Series? Mike Reichelt, head of Neue Klasse BMW, said:
“The BMW i3 applies the sporty sedan’s typical characteristics to a completely new vehicle concept defined by the BMW 3 Series DNA. At the same time, pushing the conventional boundaries of electric mobility into new territory, thanks to the potential of our Neue Klasse.”
Engineers have been running vigorous tests in freezing conditions in the Arjeplog region in Sweden to fine-tune the system, and to ensure it lives up to the heritage of the 3 Series.
At least one variant has been confirmed, called the i3 50 xDrive. It’ll feature an 800V electrical system capable of recharging at up to 400kW, with electric motors producing a combined 345kW and 645Nm. It’ll also feature an adaptable EESM (electrically excited synchronous motor) e-motor for the rear axle and asynchronous motor (ASM) technology for the front axle.
A full debut for the design, and likely some more specs, will take place on March 18. Production of customer vehicles is then scheduled to commence in the second half of 2026. The new 3 Series will also debut in a few weeks.
As previously reported, BMW M is working on a high-performance version of the i3 – potentially called the i3 M.
