Summary
- BMW i4 accounted for over half of 4 Series sales in North America in 2024
- BMW facing competition in Germany and China but achieving record EV sales in the U.S.
- BMW’s first Neue Klasse model to go on sale in U.S. later this year
- Sales of i4 and i5 increasing, influencing other models like 3 Series
- Electrification impacting sedan sales, but BMW’s i4 and i5 are successful electric vehicles despite platform shortcomings
Article
BMW i4 Dominates 4 Series Sales in North America
In the year 2024, the BMW i4 made a significant impact on the sales of the 4 Series in North America, accounting for more than half of the total sales. The electric vehicle business of the BMW Group is thriving in the U.S., setting a new record for EV sales. The BMW i4 and i5 have played a key role in this success, surpassing their gas-powered counterparts in the 4 Series and 5 Series line-ups.
Challenges Faced by BMW Group in Global Markets
While BMW Group is excelling in the electric vehicle sector in North America, it is facing challenges in other key markets. Sales in China, the largest market by volume, declined by 13.4% in 2024. The competition from Chinese automakers like BYD and Xpeng is intensifying, posing a threat to Germany’s legacy automakers. Despite this, BMW’s focus on electric vehicles has helped it gain traction in the U.S. market.
Impact of BMW i4 on 4 Series Line-Up
The BMW i4 has become a significant player in the 4 Series line-up, with the electric model accounting for a majority of sales in North America. The strong performance of the i4 has even affected sales of the 3 Series, with a decline in numbers. The success of the i4 highlights a shifting trend towards electric vehicles in the automotive industry, particularly in the sedan segment.
Growing Popularity of BMW i5
In addition to the i4, the BMW i5 has also shown impressive growth in sales, increasing fourfold in the U.S. market. The i5 accounts for a significant portion of the 5 Series sales, outperforming competitors like the Mercedes-Benz EQE. The success of the i5 signals a positive response from consumers towards BMW’s electric offerings and the shift towards electric crossovers in the industry.
Rise of Electric Crossovers
While sedans face challenges in the electrification trend, electric crossovers are gaining popularity among consumers. General Motors has seen success with models like the Chevy Equinox EV and Cadillac Lyriq. Despite this trend, the BMW i4 and i5 have managed to stand out with their performance, design, and technology, defying the odds in the sedan segment.
Future Prospects with Neue Klasse Models
BMW’s upcoming Neue Klasse models, built on a BEV-native platform, hold promise for the future of the German automaker. These models will address the shortcomings of the current lineup, offering improved driving range and charging performance. With a focus on innovation and electrification, BMW is poised to continue its success in the rapidly evolving automotive landscape.
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