BMW is preparing to expand its electrical line-up with the start of the I1, a brand new electrical assembly back that is based on the new class platform, as we have reported in the past. According to the latest comments from Bernd Körber, Senior Vice President of BMW Brand and Product Management, the brand has made it clear that an electrical successor to the popular 1 series for their future is of crucial importance – especially in important European markets such as Spain, Italy and Greece, where compact cars are of crucial importance for the overall sale.
In an interview with the Shanghai automotive exhibition 2025 in an interview with AutoexpressKörber emphasized how important it is to stay in the smaller car segment in order to maintain the volume and bring younger customers into the brand. “It has never been a question that we stepped out of the segment of smaller cars,” said Körber. “If you are a global player, do better things in your home markets that are relevant.” While Körber put the confirmation of the model name, BMWblog previously reported that the car is described internally as NB0 I1.
A movement back to the rear wheel drive
In a step that enthusiastic enthusiasts enthusiastic, we have also heard that the future I1 will not take a layout for front-wheel drive like today’s 1 series. Instead, BMW plans to offer the electric hat with rear wheel drive by default, although all -wheel drive versions are likely to be available for higher models. This choice underlines the continued commitment of BMW for dynamic driving experiences, even if it shifted towards complete electrification. If you remember, the first 1-series assembly line began as a rear-wheel drive matter.
While official performance outputs and battery specifications are still under lock and key, the I1 is expected to include the new battery technology of the sixth generation (“Gen6”) from BMW. These advanced cylindrical battery cells are not only energy hard, but also significantly more efficient than the current prismatic constructions. Despite the room restrictions that are inherent in a compact assembly line, we are of the opinion that BMW aims at the WLTP cycle to at least 600 kilometers (approx. 373 miles) -a number that was made possible thanks to the improved performance of the gene6 cells.
Production start
The I1 is scheduled to start production at the end of 2028 after the successor to the Allelectrical NEE class 3-series-3 series-3 series-3 series has left behind. A second EV entry-EV, which I2, which is expected to start in the form of a stylish Gran coupe, will join the line-up shortly afterwards.
In the meantime, the current 1 series of the third generation (F40) in production will continue until around 2027 or early 2028 and offer a bridge between today’s compact BMWs and the more electrified future.
