BMW opens i3 orders months ahead of schedule as demand takes off

BMW opened orders for its new i3 electric vehicle on Thursday, months ahead of its planned fall release, citing unexpectedly strong demand. The company has not disclosed specific sales figures but indicated that customer interest has significantly exceeded internal projections. This early opening of orders suggests a strategic response to a robust market reception for the i3, which is positioned as a key model in BMW's expanding electric vehicle lineup. The i3 is expected to compete in the premium compact electric car segment, a market experiencing rapid growth and increasing competition. BMW's decision to accelerate the order availability reflects confidence in the i3's market appeal and its potential to capture a significant share of EV buyers.