BMW Discontinues Three Domestically Produced All-Electric Models

[Product Adjustment] BMW will cease production of three domestically manufactured all-electric models—the i3, i5, and iX1—starting July 2026, with the final batch of vehicles rolling off the assembly line in August.

Core Development: Freeing Up Production Lines for the NEUE KLASSE Platform

BMW Brilliance Automotive (BBA) currently produces all its on-sale domestic all-electric vehicles on the CLAR flexible platform, which supports both combustion and electric powertrains. This platform has limitations such as constrained cabin space and lagging smart features. This discontinuation represents a routine end-of-product-cycle adjustment and does not signal BMW’s withdrawal from the Chinese market.

Strategic Foundation: Focusing on Native EV Transition

BMW will reconfigure its Shenyang plant production lines to accommodate the new NEUE KLASSE native electric vehicle platform. The all-new long-wheelbase iX3 is scheduled for domestic production in Q4 2026, followed by the NEUE KLASSE long-wheelbase i3, expected to enter production between late 2026 and early 2027.

Industry Impact: After-Sales Rights Remain Unaffected

All existing vehicle owners will continue to receive full lifecycle maintenance and warranty services, with all original benefits remaining valid. This move reflects how foreign automakers are accelerating their shift toward native EV architectures to better compete against domestic Chinese rivals.