BMW ramps up i3 production by 43% ahead of US launch
BMW has increased daily i3 output from 70 to around 100 units to meet global demand as US orders begin and the company targets at least 10,000 sales in 2014.
BMW has increased production of its i3 electric hatchback by 43 percent, raising daily output from around 70 to approximately 100 units as orders for the US market commence. The decision comes as the company prepares for the i3’s American launch and responds to stronger-than-expected global demand.
The i3, BMW’s first mass-produced electric vehicle under the “i” sub-brand, has already been on sale in Europe since November 2013. With the US now opening for orders, BMW is targeting the country as the largest single market for the i3. Board member Harald Krueger confirmed the production increase was directly linked to American demand, with the company planning for at least 10,000 global sales this year.
So far, the Leipzig plant has produced 5,000 i3s. BMW has received orders that would require production of at least 11,000 units, prompting the ramp-up. The new daily rate of 100 cars is intended to keep pace with incoming orders and shorten delivery times for customers in both Europe and the US.
US launch and pricing
BMW began taking US orders for the i3 in April 2014, ahead of the car’s planned arrival in American showrooms. The i3 is priced at $41,350 in the US. Early indications suggest the American market will be pivotal for the model’s sales performance in its first full year. BMW is aiming to deliver at least 10,000 i3s globally by the end of 2014, with the US expected to account for a substantial share.
Carbon fibre supply and future models
- i3: Fully electric, carbon fibre chassis, European sales since November 2013, US launch in 2014.
- i8: Plug-in hybrid sports car, carbon fibre chassis, market launch planned for June 2014.
BMW’s production strategy for the i3 reflects a broader push to establish its “i” sub-brand in major markets. The Leipzig plant’s increased output is expected to continue as the company works through a strong order bank and prepares for the i8’s arrival later in 2014.
