BMW’s Neue Klasse i3 Revealed: Ultra-Fast Charging and 469 HP for the Next Gen

BMW just pulled the curtain back on the 2027 i3 Long Wheelbase (LWB) at the Beijing Auto Show. This isn’t just a bigger battery—it’s a massive leap forward for the Neue Klasse era, boasting supercar power and charging speeds that rival a gas station stop.

Danniel Bittencourt

29/04/2026

2027 BMW i3 LWB: The “New Class” Sedan with 620 Miles of Range

BMW has officially unveiled the all-new i3 Long Wheelbase (LWB) at the 2026 Beijing Auto Show. While the “i3” name might remind Americans of the quirky carbon-fiber hatchback from years ago, this new iteration is a sophisticated, all-electric powerhouse. Built on the highly anticipated Neue Klasse platform, it serves as the blueprint for the next generation of BMW luxury.

Design and Dimensions: Reimagining Curb Appeal

The 2027 i3 LWB moves away from traditional styling, embracing a bold, minimalist aesthetic. The front fascia features a unified kidney grille that merges with the LED headlights, creating a seamless digital face. This isn’t just for looks; the grille hides advanced LiDAR and sensors for Level 3 autonomous driving.

Designed specifically for owners who value rear-seat comfort, the wheelbase has been stretched to over 118 inches. To keep the silhouette sleek, BMW utilized flush-mounted door handles and optimized wheels that slash wind resistance, ensuring every inch of the car helps cut through the air.

Performance and Next-Gen Range

Under the skin, the i3 LWB utilizes BMW’s sixth-generation eDrive technology. The flagship i3 50 xDrive model packs a dual-motor setup delivering a combined 469 horsepower and 475 lb-ft of torque, making it as quick as many M-lite models.

The specs that will truly excite American drivers include:

Range: Up to 620 miles (1,000 km) on the CLTC cycle—likely translating to a massive EPA rating.
Architecture: A 800-volt system using new cylindrical battery cells.
Charging: Support for 400 kW DC fast charging, adding 250 miles of range in just 10 minutes.

High-Tech Interior and the “Heart of Joy”

The cabin is a departure from anything currently in the US lineup. The BMW Panoramic Vision replaces the traditional dashboard, projecting vital data across the entire base of the windshield.

Everything is powered by the “Heart of Joy,” a new centralized computing unit. This “brain” manages the powertrain and driving dynamics with ten times the processing power of previous BMWs, creating a lag-free, intuitive interface between the driver and the machine.

Production and Global Impact

The i3 LWB will be manufactured by the BMW Brilliance facility in Shenyang, China. Production is slated for August 2026, with a market launch shortly after. While this specific long-wheelbase version is tailored for the Chinese market, the technology and design language are a direct preview of the next-gen electric 3 Series headed for US shores soon.

FAQ

How much will the 2027 BMW i3 cost? Official US pricing isn’t out yet, but industry experts expect it to start in the $55,000 to $65,000 range to compete with the Tesla Model 3 and Hyundai Ioniq 6.
What is the range of the new BMW i3? The LWB model claims up to 620 miles under Chinese testing standards. Expect a US EPA rating closer to 450–500 miles.
How fast does the 2027 BMW i3 charge? It uses an 800V architecture, allowing it to charge from 10% to 80% in under 20 minutes at compatible ultra-fast stations.
Is this the same as the old BMW i3 hatchback? No. This is a completely new electric sedan based on the “Neue Klasse” platform, sharing only the name with the previous model.
Will the i3 LWB be sold in the United States? The “LWB” (stretched) version is likely exclusive to China, but the standard wheelbase version is expected to debut in the US as the new i3 or i330 sedan.
How much horsepower does it have? The top-trim i3 50 xDrive produces a stout 469 hp.
Does it have a screen on the dashboard? It uses “Panoramic Vision,” which projects information across the windshield, supplemented by a central infotainment display.
Is the BMW i3 2027 All-Wheel Drive? Yes, the xDrive models feature dual motors providing full-time all-wheel drive.
What makes the “Neue Klasse” platform special? It is BMW’s first platform designed purely for EVs, offering better battery integration, more interior space, and 30% more range.
When can I buy one? Production begins in late 2026, with global versions expected to hit showrooms in early 2027.