BMW Rebrands: Saying Goodbye to the “i” Tradition

In a bold move, BMW has officially bid farewell to the iconic “i” designation that adorned its internal combustion engine vehicle names for the past 50 years. This change comes as part of BMW’s strategy to streamline its naming conventions, especially in anticipation of its expanding electric vehicle lineup. Let’s delve deeper into this significant shift by BMW.

The Evolution of BMW’s Naming Convention

Since the early 1970s, BMW has used the “i” suffix to signify the use of fuel injection in its vehicle models. However, as automotive technology evolved and fuel injection became standard across the board, the “i” persisted more as a legacy marker than a practical indicator. With the advent of electric vehicles in the BMW lineup, the “i” began to lose its distinctiveness as it was used on both traditional and electric models.

A New Chapter in BMW’s Naming Strategy

BMW’s decision to drop the “i” from its internal combustion models signifies a move towards a simpler and more transparent naming system. Going forward, BMW’s naming structure will consist of the model number followed by engine-specific details. While this adjustment may require some adaptation from BMW enthusiasts, it aligns with the brand’s commitment to innovation and clarity in its product offerings.

Embracing Change: The Future of BMW

The transition away from the “i” designation will be gradual, starting with upcoming models like the next-gen X3, followed by the 1 Series and potentially the 2 Series Gran Coupe. This shift reflects BMW’s dedication to staying at the forefront of automotive trends while honoring its rich heritage of innovation.

Conclusion

As BMW embarks on this naming transformation, it marks the end of an era and the beginning of a new chapter in the brand’s history. By reimagining its naming conventions, BMW is poised to resonate with a new generation of drivers who value authenticity and clarity in their automotive choices.

FAQ

Why did BMW decide to remove the “i” from its internal combustion models?

BMW opted to eliminate the “i” designation to simplify its naming structure and differentiate between traditional and electric models clearly.

Will the removal of the “i” affect future BMW models?

The removal of the “i” will gradually roll out across BMW’s internal combustion lineup, with upcoming models set to reflect this new naming convention.

How will BMW’s new naming strategy impact consumers?

BMW’s revised naming system aims to enhance clarity and streamline the identification of different vehicle models and engine types.