BMW Starts Series Production of i3 Neue Klasse Sedan in Munich as Demand Triggers Accelerated Ramp
BMW launched series production of the new i3 electric sedan — the second Neue Klasse model — at its Munich plant on 6 August 2026, fast-tracking the output ramp after pre-orders generated what the company calls the highest demand ever recorded for one of its electric cars.
BMW began series production of the new i3 electric sedan at its main plant in Munich on 6 August 2026, marking the second model to roll off the Neue Klasse platform following the iX3 crossover. The Munich plant is transitioning to produce only battery-electric vehicles from 2027 and has undergone comprehensive renovations for the Neue Klasse programme; BMW states that launching the i3 line has simultaneously achieved a 10% reduction in manufacturing costs at the facility compared with the previous setup.
Since pre-orders opened in June 2026, BMW has recorded what it describes as the highest demand ever seen for one of its electric models. The automaker is accelerating its production ramp-up in response, scaling output from zero to high volumes as quickly as possible to fulfil orders.
The i3 is positioned as the battery-electric counterpart to the 3 Series, which BMW describes as the essence of its brand. The Neue Klasse architecture introduces a new generation of round battery cells designed for higher energy density and faster charging, together with an 800-volt electrical system. The iX3, the first Neue Klasse model, began European customer deliveries in January 2026; the i3 is expected to reach European customers in the months ahead.