BMW 3 Series sales in China surpass 2 million units; Neue Klasse i3 set for 2026 Chengdu Motor Show

BMW has officially announced that cumulative sales of the 3 Series in China have exceeded 2 million units, highlighting the model's strong demand in the market over the years.

At the same time, BMW is preparing to introduce another key model under its electrification push. The Neue Klasse BMW i3 Long Wheelbase will make its official debut at the Chengdu Motor Show on August 21, with the full exterior and interior design to be revealed. Production and launch are expected to take place in the fourth quarter of this year.

Unlike BMW's previous EVs based on adapted combustion-engine platforms, the new i3 Long Wheelbase is built on the brand's dedicated Neue Klasse EV platform.

So, what has BMW changed with its next-generation electric sedan?

Neue Klasse: No more "converted EVs"

As BMW's dedicated electric vehicle architecture for its next generation of EVs, the Neue Klasse platform allows the new i3 Long Wheelbase to be developed specifically around an electric powertrain, rather than adapting an existing combustion-engine platform.

50:50 weight distribution returns

The battery pack is positioned flat within the vehicle floor, lowering the centre of gravity while helping achieve BMW's familiar 50:50 front-to-rear weight distribution.

This not only improves stability, but also helps retain the driving feel that BMW is known for.

More space and practicality

Thanks to the EV platform's short front overhang and longer wheelbase layout, the cabin is positioned further forward, creating more legroom for rear passengers.

The front compartment also gains a frunk (front trunk), adding extra storage space for daily use.

Stronger body structure

The integrated battery pack is built into the vehicle structure, increasing torsional rigidity while improving handling and overall ride quality.

800V platform and sixth-generation eDrive

The new BMW i3 comes with a major upgrade to its battery and electric drive technology.

The car is equipped with a 108 kWh battery pack, with the first launch version offering a CLTC range of over 900 km. Certain performance variants could even approach the 1,000 km mark.

BMW's 800V high-voltage architecture and sixth-generation eDrive system also improve charging performance. The i3 Long Wheelbase is expected to accelerate from 0-100 km/h in 4.7 seconds and gain around 400 km of range in 10 minutes of charging.

A more digital-focused cabin

Inside, the new-generation i3 introduces a more digital-oriented interior design.

The cabin is expected to feature a wraparound layout, a frameless central display, BMW's 43.3-inch BMW Panoramic Vision with Panoramic iDrive, and a 3D head-up display.

With the 3 Series reaching 2 million units in China and the arrival of the Neue Klasse i3, BMW is looking to bring its next-generation EV technology to the premium electric sedan segment.

The new i3 Long Wheelbase will make its official appearance at the 2026 Chengdu Motor Show, where more details about the model will be revealed.