The Bavarian premium automaker is getting its new all-electric SUV deady to rumble, but revolutionary tech requires revolutionary preparations: the total investment is currently estimated at €400 million.
BMW will piece its iNext series together at the same factory in Dingolfing, Germany as its latest 5, 7, and 8 Series. The production lines will need a major overhaul to support manufacturing and installation of EV components. The company says it will give special attention to the QA of all on-board electronic systems. The iNext will become its first production vehicle fitted with a Tier 3 self-driving tech, so the precautions are likely appropriate.
The general manager of the factory said in an interview that the iNext isn’t just another new car, but rather a turning point for many innovative technologies in the industry, autonomous driving in particular.
The availability and pricing of the BMW iNext remain unknown, but early estimations say it could hit the showrooms in 2021. Once out, the model will have to stave off such competitors as the Audi e-tron, Mercedes-Benz EQC, and Ford Mustang Mach-E.