When Did BMW Start Making Electric Vehicles? A Timeline of Innovation
BMW’s journey into electric mobility began decades before its current wave of EVs, rooted in a commitment to innovation and sustainable performance.
When Did BMW First Enter the Electric Vehicle Market?
BMW’s exploration of electric propulsion started in the late 1990s, with experimental models like the BMW C1 electric city car tested in the early 2000s. However, the brand officially launched its first production electric vehicle with the BMW i3 in 2013, marking a pivotal moment in its EV history. This was followed by the i8 sports hybrid in the same year, showcasing BMW’s vision for sustainable luxury.
Evolution of BMW’s Electric Vehicle Strategy
After the i3 and i8 introduced, BMW expanded its electric portfolio through dedicated platforms and battery technology advancements. The company unveiled the full iX and i4 models in 2020, reinforcing its long-term commitment to electrification. By 2022, electric vehicles accounted for over 15% of BMW’s global sales, driven by a strategic shift toward fully electric mobility.
Current and Future Outlook for BMW EVs
Today, BMW continues to accelerate its electric transition with new battery factories and software innovations. With plans to offer fully electric versions of all models by 2030, BMW is positioning itself as a leader in sustainable premium mobility, building on its early experiments into a comprehensive EV ecosystem.
From early prototypes to a bold electrification roadmap, BMW’s journey in electric vehicles reflects a commitment to innovation and sustainability. As the brand evolves, it invites enthusiasts and eco-conscious drivers to join the future of driving—where performance meets responsibility. Discover your next BMW electric model today.
Frequently Asked Questions When did BMW start making electric cars? BMW's journey into electric cars began in the early 20th century with prototypes like the E1. However, its first fully electric production car was the BMW i3, launched in 2013. What are some of BMW's most popular electric cars? The BMW i3 and i8 were early successes, while the more recent iX and i4 have also gained.
BMW's first major step into the world of electric cars came in 1972 with the 1602e. 1972 BMW 1602 Electric But let's start from the beginning, decades before the manufacturer ever considered making the i3, its first commercially successful EV. BMW began researching electric.
The visionary history of electric BMW vehicles begins with two cars at the 1972 Olympic Games. They are the prelude to groundbreaking research and development. When it comes to luxury electric vehicles, BMW has been a front-runner in the industry for quite some time.
From the i3 to the i8, BMW has consistently delivered electric cars that combine sleek design, impressive performance, and eco-friendly innovation. But where did it all begin for BMW's electric car history? Let's take a closer look at the evolution of BMW's electric cars and how. BMW has been making EVs since the 1970s.
Its best electric models are yet to come. The upcoming electric i4 and self. The MCV became the i3, marking the beginning of the BMW i sub-brand that still continues today.
BMW has been working on EVs for over 50 years, making its substantial portfolio of electric vehicles more than a mere fad or regulatory requirement. The 1602 Elektro-Antrieb, the first electric car in BMW's history, had a 12.6 kWh battery, could travel 60 km and was the subject of an official restomod. Electrified BMW cars such as the i3 and i8 were utterly pioneering and perhaps a little bit ahead of their time, but BMW's electric story actually started all the way back in 1969 when it constructed two experimental cars based on the 1602 to investigate whether an electric drive unit would be suitable for passenger vehicles.
The sportiest electric sedan out there and the first all-electric 5 Series vehicle - the BMW i5 - is slowly being revealed! Expected to debut for the 2025 model year and with a starting price of about $62,000, the i5 is a representation and combination of all that is award.