FYI: BMW outpaced German rivals in electric vehicle sales globally, setting a new benchmark in automotive innovation.
BMW Leads the Charge in EV Market Domination
Last year marked a significant victory for BMW in the electric vehicle (EV) market. The renowned automaker surpassed its competitors, Mercedes-Benz and Audi, by selling a remarkable 368,475 electric vehicles globally, excluding models from Mini and Rolls-Royce. This impressive feat, achieved in 2024, set BMW ahead of its fellow German automakers, whose combined sales totaled 349,060 units.
Record-Breaking Growth
The surge in sales is largely attributed to BMW’s strategic initiative of providing battery-powered options alongside its traditional gas models. This approach resulted in a 13.5% increase in their electric vehicle sales for 2024. In contrast, Mercedes-Benz and Audi experienced declines of 23.1% and 8%, respectively, in their EV sales figures.
Expanding the EV Portfolio
BMW Group also reported significant growth among its other brands. Mini saw a 24.3% rise in electric vehicle sales, moving 56,171 units, while Rolls-Royce set a record by selling 1,890 units of its Spectre EV, a substantial increase from 326 the previous year.
Overall, the BMW Group reported nearly 2.5 million vehicle sales last year. Although this represented a 4% dip compared to 2023, the company raised its EV sales share from 14.7% to 17.4%.
The Road Ahead: Neue Klasse to Revolutionize Performance
Looking forward, BMW aims to achieve 50% of its sales from electric vehicles by the decade’s end. The introduction of the Neue Klasse models is anticipated to spearhead this goal, featuring the all-electric i3 and iX3, successors to the popular 3 Series sedan and X3 crossover. These models are set to enter production later this year.
With at least six new EVs planned by 2028, the Neue Klasse line will be characterized by impressive features such as a range exceeding 300 miles, with top-range models reaching up to 560 miles. The advanced 800-volt battery technology promises ultra-fast charging and significant efficiency improvements over current EV models.
Conclusion: BMW Sets New Standards in the EV Landscape
BMW’s achievement in outpacing both Mercedes-Benz and Audi showcases its leadership in the electric vehicle segment. The company’s drive to expand its EV offerings and enhance performance with the Neue Klasse highlights its commitment to sustainable innovation. As BMW gears up for an electrified future, all eyes are on its ability to redefine the automotive industry’s standards and meet its ambitious targets.
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Written by William Kouch, Editor of Automotive.fyi.