BMW China EV Transition Accelerates as Neue Klasse Platform Replaces Existing Electric Models

BMW is preparing for a major transition in China as production of its locally built electric vehicles is reportedly set to end in July. The move marks a pivotal step in the company's broader electrification strategy centered around the BMW Neue Klasse platform. According to reports, all three China-built electric models — the i3, i5 and iX1 — will simultaneously conclude production under the BMW Brilliance joint venture. This shift is designed to pave the way for a new generation of electric vehicles featuring upgraded technologies, improved efficiency and enhanced intelligent driving capabilities tailored for the Chinese market.

The affected models are all based on BMW's Cluster Architecture (CLAR), a platform designed to support both combustion and electric vehicles. Reports indicate that the i3, i5 and iX1 will reach the end of their life cycles together in July. The transition reflects BMW's decision to move away from multi-powertrain architectures toward dedicated electric platforms. By adopting a purpose-built EV architecture, the automaker aims to strengthen its competitive position in one of the world's largest electric vehicle markets while accelerating its long-term electrification roadmap.

The locally produced i3 entered production at BMW's Lydia plant in Shenyang in May 2022 and became the company's first China-built electric sedan. Initially launched with a guide price of 349,900 yuan ($51,790), the model benefited from the strong customer base established by the combustion-powered 3 Series. Market competition and pricing pressures have since reduced its retail price to around 180,000 yuan, helping maintain sales momentum and making it the highest-selling model among the three outgoing electric vehicles.

The iX1 currently remains BMW's only electric SUV sold in China following the discontinuation of the first-generation iX3 in March 2025. Reports also suggest that the imported iX will cease sales in 2026. As a result, BMW's electric SUV portfolio in China is expected to experience a temporary gap after production halts in July. Meanwhile, the i5, introduced in early 2024, remains the newest model among the outgoing vehicles and is also available in a high-performance imported i5 M60 variant.

BMW's premium electric sedan lineup has also undergone changes with the discontinuation of the flagship i7 this month. Until new-generation products arrive, the automaker's electric portfolio in China will largely consist of performance-oriented imports such as the i4 M60 and i5 M60. Despite the reduction in available models, BMW has emphasized that its electrification efforts are continuing, with the focus now shifting entirely toward a dedicated electric platform designed to deliver significant technological advancements.

The BMW Neue Klasse platform represents the core of the company's future electric strategy. The first model built on this architecture will be a long-wheelbase iX3 specifically developed for Chinese customers, featuring a wheelbase of 3,005 millimeters. The vehicle incorporates an 800V high-voltage architecture and is expected to offer a CLTC driving range exceeding 900 kilometers. The new iX3 is scheduled for launch in the fourth quarter of this year, highlighting BMW's commitment to next-generation electric mobility.

BMW plans to further expand the Neue Klasse lineup with a long-wheelbase i3 that made its global debut at the Beijing Auto Show in April and is expected to enter production in early 2027. One of the most significant improvements of the new generation is its upgraded intelligent vehicle capabilities. The upcoming iX3 will be the first BMW model equipped with a driver-assistance system jointly developed with Chinese autonomous driving startup Momenta, underscoring the growing importance of advanced software and automation technologies in future electric vehicles.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is BMW discontinuing its current electric vehicles in China?
BMW is ending production of its existing China-built EVs to transition toward the dedicated BMW Neue Klasse platform. This strategy enables the company to introduce vehicles built exclusively for electric mobility rather than adapting combustion platforms. The new architecture supports advanced technologies such as 800V systems, longer driving range and improved intelligent driving functions. By shifting to Neue Klasse, BMW aims to strengthen competitiveness in China's rapidly evolving EV market and deliver next-generation products with enhanced performance and software capabilities.

What new technologies will the upcoming BMW iX3 offer?
The upcoming long-wheelbase iX3 will introduce several major advancements as the first Neue Klasse model for China. It features an 800V high-voltage electrical architecture and is expected to provide a CLTC driving range of more than 900 kilometers. Additionally, the vehicle will debut a new driver-assistance system developed jointly with Momenta. These upgrades are designed to improve charging efficiency, driving performance and intelligent vehicle functions while supporting BMW's broader electrification strategy in China.