Overview
- Automobilwoche reported that BMW will open order books for a limited '1st Edition' i3 on Thursday, June 18, with other outlets repeating the claim but BMW has not publicly confirmed the move.
- BMW is said to be keeping series production unchanged, with assembly for the i3 scheduled to begin at the Munich plant in August 2026.
- Reported specifications for the launch i3 50 xDrive include about 469 horsepower, an approximately 107 kWh battery, a preliminary EPA-based range near 440 miles, an 800-volt architecture and up to 400 kW fast charging plus standard vehicle-to-load capability.
- Coverage cites dealer and executive sources saying early interest in the i3 outpaced reactions to the iX3 SUV after its debut, and that strong demand has been especially visible in Europe and China.
- Observers warn the early order opening could heighten tensions between customer demand and fixed production timing, with U.S. deliveries reported to arrive in 2027 using NACS ports and a CCS adapter included.