BMW to unveil three new EV models in India

BMW India is set to electrify its luxury portfolio with three all-new electric vehicle models in 2026, doubling down on a battery-only strategy as it targets 25% EV sales contribution amid surging premium demand.​

The German automaker’s aggressive push forms part of a massive 27-product intervention plan for the year – including 10 new launches and 17 upgrades – positioning BMW to maintain dominance in India’s $10 billion+ luxury car market where EVs now account for 21% of its volume, up from 8% in 2024.

Three New EVs Lead the Charge

BMW has confirmed three pure-play BEVs among its 2026 introductions, deliberately skipping hybrids to focus on zero-emission performance and advanced tech. Expected highlights include:

BMW iX3 (Neue Klasse): Fresh from its CES 2026 global debut, this next-gen SUV packs an 800V architecture delivering up to 805 km range, cylindrical cells for efficiency, and panoptic digital displays. Likely imported initially, it targets the iX1/iX price sweet spot around ₹1-1.5 crore.

BMW i5 Long Wheelbase: Locally assembled in Chennai like the chart-topping iX1, this “baby i7” sedan brings flagship luxury to a more accessible ₹90 lakh-1.1 crore bracket. Extended wheelbase caters to India’s chauffeur-driven preferences with enhanced rear space and M Sport dynamics.

BMW iX Facelift: Refreshed powertrain, sharper styling, and upgraded AI-assisted driver aids elevate the current bestseller. Expected pricing: ₹1.4-1.6 crore, building on 60%+ luxury EV market share.

These join existing stars like iX1 LWB (₹49.9 lakh, India’s top luxury EV) and i7 (₹2+ crore), creating a comprehensive battery-electric ladder from entry-premium to ultra-luxury.

Local Assembly + Infrastructure Edge

BMW’s Chennai plant – now assembling iX1 – gives pricing and localisation advantages over rivals reliant on CBU imports facing 100%+ duties. The iX1’s 200% sales surge post-localisation proves the strategy.

Supporting this EV blitz:

• Highway fast chargers (350kW+ capacity) between metro cities.

• Dealer-level charging at all 50+ touchpoints.

• Tier-2 expansion via partnerships.

BMW urges sustained 5% GST on EVs (vs 28% ICE) to accelerate adoption, where import duties and battery costs still inflate premiums.

Riding India’s Luxury EV Wave

India’s luxury EV sales jumped 150% YoY, with BMW holding 60% share ahead of Mercedes and Audi. Buyers prioritise sustainability, tech, and lower running costs (₹1/km vs ₹8-10 for petrol), fueling waitlists across models.

Government incentives, falling battery prices, and expanding infra create tailwinds. BMW eyes first-time luxury buyers alongside upgraders, with EVs driving total sales toward 20,000 units annually.

Competitive Arena Heats Up

Mercedes pushes EQS facelifts and Maybach EQS SUV; Audi debuts Q6 e-tron; JLR brings electric Range Rover. Yet BMW’s local assembly, model depth, and charging network build formidable moats.

By 2026 end, these three launches could push EV penetration past 25%, redefining premium mobility as sustainable, connected, and distinctly BMW. India’s ultra-rich and corporate fleets stand ready.