MUNICH – BMW is expanding its Neue Klasse electric vehicle family to include a versatile wagon, known as the Touring, the company confirmed during the design premiere of the i3 sedan. The announcement, made by BMW Group CEO Oliver Zipse, signals a broader strategy to cater to diverse customer needs within its next-generation EV lineup. The i3 Touring will aim to appeal to families and business users who prioritize cargo space and practicality, building on the foundation laid by the recently unveiled i3 sedan.
The confirmation came with a brief glimpse of the i3 Touring’s silhouette displayed on screen during the presentation, showcasing its distinctive rear end and updated taillights. This move aligns with BMW’s historical practice of offering the 3 Series, a key model in its portfolio, in multiple body styles, providing customers with a range of options to suit their lifestyles. The i3 sedan itself represents a significant step for BMW, embodying a new design language and technological advancements.
Foto: BMW
BMW i3 Touring nebude jedinou alternativou ke klasickému sedanu BMW i3.
Expanding the Neue Klasse Family
Beyond the i3 sedan and Touring, BMW is also developing a high-performance, all-electric i3 M model, slated for release next year. This model, also built on the Neue Klasse platform, will feature four electric motors, a unique battery configuration, and simulated shifting and sounds, promising a dynamic driving experience. The Neue Klasse platform is central to BMW’s electrification strategy, representing a significant investment in future technologies.
The company has committed to launching a total of 40 new or updated models by the end of next year, all incorporating innovations from the Neue Klasse architecture. These include the next-generation BMW X5 and a facelifted 7 Series. BMW also intends to unify the design language across its models, aligning them with the aesthetic established by the i3 sedan and iX3 SUV. This design consistency is expected to strengthen brand recognition and signal BMW’s commitment to its electric future.
A Shift Towards Electric Performance
The i3 M’s development underscores BMW’s ambition to deliver electric vehicles that don’t compromise on performance. The inclusion of four electric motors suggests a focus on all-wheel drive and enhanced power output. The simulated shifting and sounds are a nod to enthusiasts who appreciate the tactile and auditory feedback traditionally associated with internal combustion engines, attempting to bridge the gap between the past and the future of driving. The Neue Klasse platform is designed to accommodate a range of battery sizes and motor configurations, allowing BMW to tailor its EVs to different segments and customer preferences.
BMW’s Broader Electrification Plans
The rollout of 40 new and updated models represents a substantial acceleration of BMW’s electrification efforts. The company is investing heavily in battery technology, charging infrastructure, and software development to support its growing EV lineup. The integration of the Neue Klasse platform across a wider range of models will allow BMW to leverage economies of scale and reduce production costs, making electric vehicles more accessible to a broader audience. The company’s commitment to design consistency will also play a key role in establishing a clear brand identity for its electric vehicles.
Looking ahead, BMW will continue to refine and expand its Neue Klasse offerings. The company has not yet provided specific details regarding the i3 Touring’s release date or pricing, but further information is expected in the coming months. Consumers interested in learning more about the Neue Klasse platform and BMW’s electric vehicle strategy can visit the company’s official website for updates.
What are your thoughts on BMW’s expansion of the i3 lineup? Share your comments below, and let us know what features you’d like to see in the i3 Touring.
