Both the i3 and i8 are developed without having any implications to expand the range and therefore we may not see eventual successors
BMW’s i range was futuristic when it first came on to the global scenes and took everyone by surprise by quickly hitting showrooms. The small i3 hatchback and the range-topping i8 sportscar showcased the capability of the brand in electrification and put BMW firmly on the map of unique automakers putting highly advanced technologies into production with ease.
The i3 and i8 are responsible largely for the company’s good EV sales worldwide and made BMW stand out from the conventional manufacturers. However, ironically the future looks bleak for them and they could allegedly be discontinued.
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Internet reports suggest that BMW authorities are yet to make a final decision but the i3 and i8 are more likely not to see past their existing generations. Their reign could come to an end when the current models are phased out of production.
BMW’s head of electric powertrain, Stefan Juraschek, told Auto News at the 2018 New York International Auto Show that both the i3 and i8 are developed without having any implications to expand the range and therefore we may not see eventual successors.
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BMW introduced the 2018 model year update for i3 already and late last year it was announced to have touched one lakh production milestone through its lifespan. The new i3S variant was even displayed at the Delhi Auto Expo two months ago and it is expected to be a future prospect for the brand in India.
A Roadster version was added to the i8’s lineup and it also greeted Indian spectators at the biennial motoring exhibition this year – hinting that the existing generations of both models would live for a few more years as the demand has always been there.
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The German company is also planning to launch a brand new i4 sedan by the end of this decade and it is said to be based on the i Vision Dynamics Concept to compete mainly against Tesla Model 3. It will accompany the iNext electric SUV that will rival Tesla Model X and Jaguar I-pace.