0
0
BMW Streamlines Naming Conventions for ICE and EV Models
German automakers have a penchant for tinkering with their naming conventions, and BMW is no exception. However, instead of complicating matters further, the company is taking a step towards streamlining its naming structure by omitting the “i” from the end of its internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles. This move is not about making things more convoluted; rather, it aims to provide clarity and distinction between ICE and electric vehicles (EVs).
The “i” suffix originally denoted BMW’s vehicles that utilized fuel injection technology, distinguishing them from carburetor-powered counterparts. This naming convention has been a hallmark of BMW products since the introduction of the E21 320i in 1975. However, as the automotive landscape evolves, so do the branding strategies of manufacturers.
According to BMW Blog, the decision to drop the “i” from ICE models is a strategic move to reserve the suffix exclusively for electric vehicles, aligning it with the brand’s commitment to innovation and sustainable mobility. Bernd Köber, BMW’s Senior Vice President of Brand and Product Management, emphasized this shift during the unveiling of the upcoming BMW X3 M50, which replaces the M40i and drops the “i” designation.
“Historically, even though our interpretation of BMW i was always different, it’s more innovation, not necessarily only electric, and we historically had injection at the end [of the badge], we said, we would like to keep ‘i’ as an asset, and we would like to keep it as a signature to indicate you’re driving an electric car and that was the logic that we had.”
In addition to the X3 lineup, BMW Blog speculates that the 1-Series hatch and 2-Series Grand Coupe will follow suit in shedding the “i” from their designations. Furthermore, reports suggest that the iconic 7-Series will undergo a mid-cycle refresh in 2026, also bidding farewell to the “i” prefix as part of its branding evolution.
The decision to reconfigure the naming conventions reflects BMW’s commitment to delineating its ICE and EV lineup while preserving the legacy of the “i” designation for future electric models. By adopting a more cohesive and purpose-driven approach to nomenclature, BMW aims to clarify its product offerings and reinforce its identity as a pioneer in automotive innovation.
Ultimately, this strategic rebranding underscores BMW’s dedication to sustainable mobility and signals a new chapter in the company’s journey towards electrification. As the automotive industry embraces the transition to electric powertrains, BMW’s progressive naming scheme reflects its vision for a cleaner and efficient future on the road.
Image/Photo credit: source url
