BMW i3 pre-series production starts at Munich plant for 2026 launch
BMW begins pre-series i3 production at Munich plant ahead of 2026 launch
BMW i3 pre-series production starts at Munich plant for 2026 launch
BMW's Munich plant has started pre-series production of the new i3 electric vehicle, scheduled for launch in 2026. Learn about the upgraded facilities and processes for this key EV model.
2026-02-05T04:09:24+03:00
2026-02-05T04:09:24+03:00
2026-02-05T04:09:24+03:00
BMW's Munich plant has begun producing pre-series units of the new BMW i3, which is scheduled to launch in the second half of 2026. This marks a significant milestone for the brand: for the first time, an i3 electric vehicle is being entirely manufactured at the company's main facility. The production involves an upgraded press shop, a new body shop, updated painting processes, and revised logistics.According to plant manager Peter Weber, starting test assembly allows the company to refine processes and ensure a smooth launch of the main production line. At this stage, BMW is testing all manufacturing equipment under conditions that closely mimic real-world operations. Every step is being checked, from the initial stamping phases to final assembly.Special focus is placed on staff training. Employees first practiced using augmented reality technologies before transitioning to work with actual equipment. These pre-series vehicles represent the final step before full-scale production begins, which is already configured for BMW's next-generation digital architecture.The team that handled early prototype assembly at the research center is helping transfer accumulated expertise to the main plant. The new i3 will be one of BMW's key electric models in the upcoming cycle, demonstrating how the company is retooling its production facilities for large-scale electrification.
BMW i3, electric vehicle, pre-series production, Munich plant, 2026 launch, EV manufacturing, BMW electric cars, production facilities, automotive news
2026
Michael Powers
news
BMW begins pre-series i3 production at Munich plant ahead of 2026 launch
BMW's Munich plant has started pre-series production of the new i3 electric vehicle, scheduled for launch in 2026. Learn about the upgraded facilities and processes for this key EV model.
Michael Powers, Editor
BMW's Munich plant has begun producing pre-series units of the new BMW i3, which is scheduled to launch in the second half of 2026. This marks a significant milestone for the brand: for the first time, an i3 electric vehicle is being entirely manufactured at the company's main facility. The production involves an upgraded press shop, a new body shop, updated painting processes, and revised logistics.
According to plant manager Peter Weber, starting test assembly allows the company to refine processes and ensure a smooth launch of the main production line. At this stage, BMW is testing all manufacturing equipment under conditions that closely mimic real-world operations. Every step is being checked, from the initial stamping phases to final assembly.
Special focus is placed on staff training. Employees first practiced using augmented reality technologies before transitioning to work with actual equipment. These pre-series vehicles represent the final step before full-scale production begins, which is already configured for BMW's next-generation digital architecture.
The team that handled early prototype assembly at the research center is helping transfer accumulated expertise to the main plant. The new i3 will be one of BMW's key electric models in the upcoming cycle, demonstrating how the company is retooling its production facilities for large-scale electrification.
