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BMW, Mercedes and Volkswagen Roll Out Long-Range EVs and €25,000 Compacts at IAA Munich as Chinese Brands Gain Ground

The Munich showcase underscores a twin strategy of premium 800‑volt platforms alongside lower‑cost small EVs to counter rapid advances by BYD, Xpeng and other Chinese manufacturers.

Overview

  • BMW unveiled the iX3 as the first Neue Klasse production model with a 108.7 kWh battery, WLTP range of up to 805 km, 800‑volt charging up to 400 kW and a 10%–80% time of about 21 minutes, with Europe deliveries starting in 2026.
  • Mercedes-Benz revealed the GLC EQ on the MB.EA platform with a 94 kWh pack, 800‑volt architecture, single‑ or dual‑motor setups and a WLTP claim up to 713 km, plus a 10%–80% DC fast-charge time of roughly 24 minutes and options such as a 39.1‑inch Hyperscreen and a 942‑dot illuminated grille.
  • Volkswagen presented a new family of small EVs from VW, Cupra and Skoda targeting about €25,000, previewed by the ID. Cross concept, with commercial launches scheduled for 2026.
  • Chinese automakers expanded their European push as BYD outpaced Tesla’s July sales in the region and confirmed Hungary production of the Dolphin Surf from late 2025, while Xpeng and Leapmotor showcased new Europe‑focused models and plans.
  • Automakers emphasized software alongside hardware, with BMW working with Qualcomm and Mercedes integrating Nvidia, Google and OpenAI into its next‑generation in‑car assistant.