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BMW to Launch Three New EV Models in India: Overview
- BMW AG plans to introduce three new electric vehicles in India in 2026 to accelerate growth in the luxury segment.
- Goal: EVs to account for 25% of BMW India sales in 2026 (up from 21% in 2025).
- 2025 sales: ~18,000 units; EVs comprised 23% in Q4.
- iX1 (locally assembled) remains the bestseller; ~3,700 EV units were sold in 2025.
- Strong demand: 3-month waiting periods for many models; 12 highway fast chargers and 52 dealer chargers installed.
- Investment: ₹400 crore for dealership upgrades and charging infrastructure.
- No plans for hybrids in India; a pure battery-electric strategy.
BMW Accelerates EV Push in India: Three New Models in 2026 to Drive 25% Share
BMW India is doubling down on its electric vehicle strategy with plans to launch three new EV models in 2026, aiming to push the segment’s share of total sales from 21% in 2025 to 25% in the coming year. This aggressive roadmap comes as the German luxury brand continues to dominate India’s premium EV market, holding an estimated close to 60% share despite rising competition from Tesla, BYD, VinFast, and domestic players.
In 2025, BMW sold approximately 18,000 vehicles in India—a strong performance in a highly competitive luxury segment. EVs already accounted for 23% of sales in the three months ended December 31, 2025, reflecting growing acceptance among buyers. The locally assembled BMW iX1 remains the brand’s EV bestseller, contributing the bulk of the ~3,700 pure-electric units sold during the year. Nearly half of iX1 buyers were first-time luxury customers, upgrading from mass-market brands attracted by lower running costs, minimal maintenance, and a premium experience.
Hardeep Singh Brar, President and CEO of BMW Group India, highlighted sustained demand: “Demand for EVs remains strong, with waiting periods of about three months, and we plan to increase supplies in 2026.” The company is investing around ₹400 crore to upgrade dealerships and expand charging infrastructure, including 12 high-capacity fast chargers along major highways (spaced ~300 km apart) and 52 fast chargers at dealer locations.
While BMW remains committed to a battery-only strategy in India—with no plans to introduce hybrids — the brand is also preparing for a broader product offensive. Alongside the three new EVs, BMW will roll out major upgrades to existing models as part of a 27-product refresh across the portfolio in 2026.
Key 2025 Performance Highlights
| Metric | 2025 | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Total Sales | ~18,000 units | Strong in luxury segment |
| EV Sales | ~3,700 units | iX1 dominates |
| EV Share (Q4 2025) | 23% | Up significantly |
| EV Share Target 2026 | 25% | Ambitious but achievable |
| Waiting Periods | ~3 months | Indicates strong demand |
| Charging Infrastructure | 12 highway + 52 dealer fast chargers | Expanding network |
The locally assembled iX1 (starting around ₹5 million) offers a compelling entry point, delivering premium features and efficiency at a price point lower than many imported rivals.
Strategic Focus: Pure Electric in India
Unlike some global markets where BMW offers hybrids, the India strategy remains battery-electric only. This aligns with the country’s EV policy push and avoids the complexity of multiple powertrain options in a price-sensitive luxury segment.
BMW’s dominance—nearly 60% of the luxury EV market—has held firm despite Tesla’s entry and aggressive competition from Chinese brands and domestic players. The brand benefits from:
- Strong resale value perception.
- Extensive service network.
- Locally assembled models qualifying for incentives.
- Premium brand equity.
Challenges and Competitive Landscape
Despite leadership, BMW faces:
- Rising competition from Tesla Model Y, BYD Sealion 7, VinFast VF 6, and others.
- Infrastructure gaps in non-metro areas.
- High import duties on fully built-up models.
The three new EVs will likely include refreshed or new models to counter this, with emphasis on range, features, and localization.
The Bigger Picture: BMW’s EV Leadership in India
BMW’s 2025 performance and 2026 ambitions position it as the clear luxury EV leader in India. With a 23% EV share in late 2025 and a 25% target for 2026, the brand is ahead of many peers in electrification.
The focus on local assembly (iX1), charging expansion, and new launches demonstrates long-term commitment. As India accelerates EV adoption through incentives and infrastructure, BMW’s premium strategy—combining technology, luxury, and reliability—is well-placed to capture aspirational buyers.
With deliveries of the three new EVs expected throughout 2026, the German brand is set to further consolidate its lead in India’s luxury EV space.
Source: business-standard.com
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