BMW’s Upcoming Electric Vehicle Models Exposed in Leaked Document

iX3 Variants: Power and Efficiency

BMW’s 2027 electric vehicle (EV) lineup was leaked online, revealing details about upcoming models and the Neue Klasse platform. The iX3 40 sDrive and iX3 40 xDrive variants will launch with a rear-wheel-drive configuration and an 82.6-kWh battery pack. This reduces weight by up to 200 kilograms compared to the iX3 50 xDrive, which uses a larger 108.7-kWh battery. The iX3 40 is projected to produce 315 horsepower and 500 Newton-meters of torque, with a top speed capped at 124 mph (200 km/h). The iX3 50 xDrive, already facing a €2,000 price hike in Europe, will retain its dual-motor setup with 463 horsepower.

i3 All-Wheel-Drive Models

The i3 40 xDrive and i3 50 xDrive all-wheel-drive variants will join the Neue Klasse lineup, sharing powertrains with the iX3. These models are expected to offer enhanced range and performance relative to their predecessors. BMW’s focus on lightweight design and battery efficiency continues to shape its EV strategy.

M350 xDrive: Performance Upgrade

The M350 xDrive, a performance iteration of the next-generation 3 Series, is anticipated to exceed the current M340i’s 386-horsepower output. It may feature a rear-wheel-drive layout with an optional all-wheel-drive configuration. This update reflects BMW’s commitment to balancing performance with electrification.

iX4 and iX5: Expanding SUV Offerings

The iX4 40 xDrive and iX4 50 xDrive, a coupe-style SUV variant of the iX3, will debut in 2027. These models will have a more compact design, with reduced rear headroom and cargo space due to their sloped roofline. The iX5 60 xDrive, BMW’s electric counterpart to the X5, will debut alongside a gas-powered X5 40 sDrive, expanding the brand’s SUV offerings to include both internal-combustion and electric options.

Neue Klasse Platform: Technical Advancements

The Neue Klasse platform, central to BMW’s EV strategy, incorporates an 800V powertrain for faster charging and improved efficiency. The platform also utilizes cylindrical battery cells, which BMW claims enhance energy density and thermal management. A new electronic control unit, the Heart of Joy ECU, will provide over 20 times the computing power of previous systems, improving vehicle performance and connectivity.

Strategic Positioning in the EV Market

The leak highlights BMW’s aggressive EV development timeline, positioning the brand to compete with Tesla and other luxury EV manufacturers. The iX3’s potential 400-mile (644 km) range (U.S. spec) and 500-mile (805 km) WLTP cycle capability could influence market dynamics. BMW’s continued investment in gas-powered models, such as a potential gas M3 alongside the electric iM3, reflects a balanced approach to electrification and enthusiast demand.

Market Timing and Competition

The 2027 launch aligns with BMW’s plan to phase out older EV models, coinciding with inventory clearance of current EVs. This timing intensifies competition in the luxury segment as the automotive industry awaits official details on BMW’s roadmap.