BMW announced several months ago that in early summer 2022 it would put an end to the production of its electric i3. Approximately eight and a half years after its launch, the production of this model has come to an end at the Leipzig plant. The BMW i3 ends its career shortly after having crossed an important milestone. In fact, car number 250,000 left the production lines a few days ago. This is an important result for a model that continues to have interesting sales numbers at a European level despite the many years behind it.
For example, in May 2022 the BMW i3 was the 10th best-selling electric car in Europe with 2,507 units registered. To celebrate the end of the career of this electric car, BMW has produced a special version of the i3S (the most sporty variant of the i3) called HomeRun Edition which is characterized by some dedicated aesthetic details and richer equipment. This special version was made in a limited number: only 10 copies.
Recall that the “small” electric from BMW has been constantly updated since it was launched on the market. The first model, in fact, had a 22 kWh battery. Subsequently, the model with a 33 kWh accumulator was introduced, and then the current one with a 42.2 kWh battery. For some time, the BMW i3 with 22 and 33 kWh batteries was also offered in a version with a petrol range extender.
Now that the BMW i3 is about to leave the list (it will remain on sale until stocks run out), the “entry-level” model (so to speak) of the electric range of the German brand has recently become the BMW iX1 . presentation.
The end of production in Leipzig of the BMW i3 will give the German brand the opportunity to reorganize the plant which will play an important role in its electrification project. For example, the production of components for the new eDrive and battery packs will be increased. More importantly, the new MINI Countryman will be produced in this factory from next year, which will also be electric.
