The i3 and i8 kicked off the electrified range of cars for BMW in 2013. Not only did the cars succeed on the market, but they also offered a good share of the EV segment to BMW. However, the i3 and i8 might actually be phased out after the current generation. Read on to learn more.

What's Next for BMW i

Autonews reported that BMW officials are yet to take a decision. The Chief of Electric Powertrain for BMW, Stefan Juraschek, at the New York Auto Show last week said, “These cars are very unique. These two cars were not as a family that we can expand in different , or maybe five or 10 derivatives,” indicating that the successors are, most probably, not included in BMW’s plans.

The next car in the 'i' line-up is the i4, which is still a couple of years away. The car was showcased at the 2017 Frankfurt Show along with the iNext SUV. The i4 will take on the likes of cars such as the Tesla Model 3, whereas the iNext will challenge the Tesla Model X and Jaguar I-Pace.

Our Take

The EV market has grown like crazy in the past couple of years with every manufacturer having their own presence. Despite this, BMW is the world's third best-selling EV car manufacturer, behind Tesla and the leader, Nissan. The i3 and i8 are two very important products in BMW's line-up; giving it the recognition in the EV segment.

Although these cars might not see daylight after the current generation, BMW has got 2 prototypes ready, the i4 and iNext, which we'll be seeing in 2020. However, the i3 and i8 were updated this year itself and also got 2 new variants - i3S and i8 Roadster, which suggests they are not going anywhere anytime soon. Let us know what you think in the comments section below.

References

BMW i8

Read our full review on the 2019 BMW i8 Coupe.

Read our full review on the 2019 BMW i8 Roadster.

BMW i3

Read our full review on the 2018 BMW i3.

Read more BMW news.