BMW Announces Removal of 'i' Suffix from Petrol Models, Focuses on Electric Portfolio
An important step of taking the I suffix to petrol models will be eliminated interface after BMW has officially denied it. This was the point of speculation recently; however, no one could have been as truthful as Bernd Korber, the current expert in BMW-brand product management and senior vice president. The modesty comes alongside the rebranding strategy which the carmaker intends to demarcate the brand from others and further clarify it with its electrification goals.
The decision to drop the 'i' suffix for petrol models reflects BMW's evolving approach to vehicle branding. Historically associated with innovation, the 'i' suffix has been synonymous with BMW's petrol-powered lineup. However, as the automotive landscape shifts towards electrification, BMW seeks to reserve the 'i' designation exclusively for its all-electric portfolio. Models such as the BMW i4 and i7, which represent the pinnacle of BMW's electric offerings, will retain the 'i' suffix.
With the removal of the 'i' suffix, petrol models will adopt a new naming convention, with names ending in '0'. This change is expected to apply to both new-generation models and facelifted versions across BMW's petrol-powered lineup. For instance, upcoming iterations of popular models like the 1 Series hatchback and 2 Series Gran Coupe will no longer feature the 'i' suffix. Even flagship models like the 7 Series, set for a facelift in 2026, will undergo the transition to the new nomenclature.
By reserving the 'i' suffix for its electric vehicles, BMW reaffirms its commitment to innovation and sustainability in the automotive industry. The decision reflects BMW's strategic pivot towards electrification and its vision for a future dominated by electric mobility. With models like the BMW i4 and i7 already making waves in markets like India, BMW aims to establish itself as a leader in the electric vehicle segment.
While the transition to the new naming convention is clear for petrol models, questions remain regarding the branding of upcoming vehicles. For example, the introduction of the next-generation X3, featuring a high-performance M50-badged variant, raises questions about the applicability of the new naming system. Similarly, the impending arrival of the 5 Series LWB in India adds further complexity to BMW's branding strategy. However, BMW has yet to confirm whether these models will adopt the revised naming convention.
As BMW continues to expand its electric vehicle lineup, speculation abounds regarding the naming conventions for its high-performance EVs. With models like the i7 M70 xDrive already commanding attention in markets like India, enthusiasts eagerly anticipate the introduction of new variants. However, Korber's remarks suggest that BMW is unlikely to extend the 'M' designation beyond the current range. While the possibility of models like the M80 or M100 remains uncertain, BMW's focus remains squarely on its existing electric offerings.
The decision to remove the 'i' suffix from petrol models underscores BMW's strategic shift towards electrification and sustainability. By redefining its branding strategy, BMW aims to position itself at the forefront of the electric mobility revolution. While the transition may present challenges in the short term, it reflects BMW's long-term vision for a future powered by electric mobility. As the automotive industry continues to evolve, BMW's bold decision sets the stage for a new era of innovation and progress.
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