The journey to electric - over 40 years of innovation​

BMW has long been at the forefront of electric innovation, with a heritage that can be traced all the way back to 1972 and the cars that ran cameras at the Munich Olympic Games.

Munich, 1972; the Olympic Games are in full swing. One of the host nation’s leading car manufacturers has introduced two electrically powered test vehicles. These adapted BMW 1602 models transported committee members and carry cameras in long-distance events.

This is BMW's humble first step into the world of electric driving. A first step that took us from lead batteries weighing 350kg and a range of just 37 miles to – through its own ambition and innovation – the fantastically efficient models we have today.

BMW 1602 electric 1972

And so, a long and ambitious journey began. Development projects started with the aim of bringing an improved and, above all, more efficient electric car to our roads.

A journey which, over 40 years later in 2013, led to the BMW i3 – a car that set new standards for electric driving. The combination of BMW innovation, performance and style in a fully electric car that was genuinely practical, affordable and fun to drive.

A journey which in 2021 is set for yet another evolution – the BMW iX3.

Introducing the BMW iX3 Premier Edition

In 2021 we start the next chapter in our outstanding story. Introducing the BMW iX3 Premier Edition, our first all-electric Sports Activity Vehicle.

Combining the familiar proportions of BMW X with the fifth-generation of BMW eDrive technology, the BMW iX3 Premier Edition is a trailblazer that delivers sensational performance and a range of up to 279 miles.

Comfort and connectivity are taken to new heights thanks to the state-of-the-art BMW Driving Assistant Professional – included as standard – as well as cutting-edge additions like BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant and Parking Assistant Plus.

And then there’s the drive itself. Enhancements to the eDrive system bring the electric motor, electronic systems and transmission into one central unit, which boosts the power-to-weight ratio and optimises dynamics. The result? Smooth, uninterrupted acceleration and an electric drive that has never felt so natural. 

Powerful. Elegant. Efficient. Everything about the BMW iX3 Premier Edition feels like the future of driving.​



Other BMW Electric Models

The BMW i3.

Inside and out, the BMW i3 represents the future of driving pleasure. The exterior is sporty from every angle, and elevates this presence with modern elements, such as dual-colour painted surfaces, elegant coach doors and a new modern kidney grille design. Inside feels more like a chic and spacious lounge, embracing new sustainable materials and a decluttered, minimal approach to comfort.

The BMW i3 can get you from London to Brighton, and back again, on just one charge; that’s an all-electric range of up to 182-190 miles*. For more information on the cost of owning a BMW i3, visit the Living with i tool. Discover why it could be the right vehicle for you.



*Subject to driving conditions: the starting charge of the battery, accessories fitted (post registration), variations in weather, driving styles and vehicle load. They were obtained after the battery had been fully charged.

The BMW iX

The BMW iX xDrive50 unleashes over 500hp and accelerates from 0 to 62mph in under five seconds (BMW iX xDrive40: over 300hp and 0 - 62mph in just over six seconds)†. Add to this the electric all-wheel drive system and instant power transfer when the pedal is pressed, and the exhilaration is nothing short of spine tingling.

Elegant touches make the new BMW iX unlike any other vehicle. Embracing a futuristic and streamlined shape, it combines minimal flat surfaces with expressive elements; as seen with the superb 22” Aerowheels and slender twin headlights and rear lights (the slimmest introduced on a series BMW). Other elements of style include the exterior mirrors, electric integrated door openers and a graphic window, which are all harmoniously integrated with the overall appearance.

The BMW i4.

The first purely electric Gran Coupé will take driving pleasure to new limits thanks to a range of up to 363 miles (WLTP)*. The four-door vehicle combines extraordinary performance with superb range to create a driving experience that’s perfect for both long-distance journeys and your everyday commutes.

With up to 530 hp, the BMW i4 delivers supreme performance, going from zero to 62mph in just four seconds. With a range of up to 363 miles* (WLTP), the Pure Electric Gran Coupé offers new levels of comfort and is perfect for everyday use.



More about the BMW i range

BMW i4

*Figures are for comparison purposes and may not reflect real life driving results which depend on a number of factors including the starting charge of the battery, accessories fitted (post registration), variations in weather, driving styles and vehicle load. They were obtained after the battery had been fully charged. The BMW i4 is a battery electric vehicle requiring mains electricity for charging. The electric range was determined according to the WLTP test cycle. Only compare fuel consumption, CO2 and electric range figures with other cars tested to the same technical procedure.