BMW i3 To Be Discontinued In US Soon

In 2013, BMW debuted the i3 and i8 plug-in hybrids with unique designs never seen before in a BMW. These two models were the first sign of BMW's interest in electrification, and automakers worldwide. A few years later, more plug-in competitors popped up to extinguish both the i3 and Tesla, leading to the EV revolution we are entering today.

The i8 sports car was already dropped last year to pave the way for fully electric models like the i4, iX, and electric 2 Series variant. Now we have found out that the i3 will follow suit in the US, and in a few more years, Europe and Asia. A dealer bulletin discovered by BMWBlog confirms the news, stating tat production of US-market i3's will conclude next month, in July.

The i3 was never a good-looking vehicle with its wonky side windows and boxy profile, but it played an important role a BMW's first electric car on sale. BMW previously said they would increase production of i3 models to keep up with demand, but that plan seems to have failed, possibly because of the semiconductor chip shortage. The dealer bulletin also states that there are just 180 examples on dealer lots currently, and since production ends very soon, those who want one must hurry into dealers while i3 models are still available.

Foreign markets won't see the discontinuation of the i3 until 2022, dropping rumors that the i3 will be around until 2024. The i4 and iX electric models recently revealed by BMW are slated to arrive in 2022, indirectly replacing the i3 EV hatchback.

Source: Motor1, BMWBlog

Images: BMW