BMW Plans New Range of Hybrids, EVs and Self-Driving Cars

BMW AG this week announced plans to launch several new advanced technology vehicles—including third- and fourth-generation hybrid and all-electric models as well as vehicles with automated driving capabilities—for its BMW, Mini and Rolls-Royce brands.

The initial rollout will include a new version of the i3 electric compact car with an extended driving range later this year and a roadster version of the i8 plug-in hybrid sports car in 2018. A plug-in hybrid Mini model also is planned.

An all-new “i” car, called the iNext, is due early next decade. Heralding it as the “next era of mobility,” BMW says the vehicle will feature new forms of automated driving and digital connectivity. Focus areas include high-definition digital maps, advanced sensor technology, cloud-based connectivity and artificial intelligence.

BMW says it will continue to develop and test hydrogen fuel-cell vehicles but has not committed to commercializing the technology. The carmaker also plans to expand its existing lineup of conventionally powered vehicles and high-performance M models. This includes the previously announced X7 three-row SUV, which is due to bow next year, and more variants of its 7 Series flagship sedan.