BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe Electric BMW has not released a fully electric version of the 2 Series Gran Coupe (F44). However, BMW is rapidly expanding its electric vehicle (EV) lineup, so an electric or plug-in hybrid variant could be possible in the future.
Current BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe Powertrains:
- Petrol/Diesel:
- 218i, 220i, 228i (x Drive), M235i x Drive (gasoline)
- 218d, 220d (x Drive) (diesel)
Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV):
- No PHEV version is currently available for the 2 Series Gran Coupe.
BMW’s Electric Lineup (i Models):
- BMW’s current electric offerings include:
- i4 (electric Gran Coupe, based on the 4 Series)
- i5 (electric sedan)
- i7 (flagship electric sedan)
- iX1 (electric compact SUV, similar in size to the 2 Series)
- iX3 & i X (electric SUVs)
Will There Be a BMW i2 Gran Coupe?
- BMW has not officially announced an i2 or an electric 2 Series Gran Coupe.
- If BMW follows its naming trend, an electric version could be called i2 Gran Coupe.
- The iX1 (based on the X1) shares a similar platform (FAAR), so an electric 2 Series could use the same tech.
Possible Timeline:
- 2024-2025: BMW may introduce more electric models, possibly including a compact electric sedan/coupe.
- 2026+: With stricter EU emissions regulations, BMW might electrify more of its lineup, including the 2 Series.
Alternatives:
- If you want a BMW electric sedan/coupe in a similar size:
- BMW i4 (closest in spirit, though slightly larger)
- BMW iX1 (if you’re open to an SUV)
BMW’s EV Roadmap:
- BMW plans for 50% of global sales to be electric by 2030, with every model line offering an EV option. The 2 Series is a key entry-level model, so electrification is inevitable.
- The FAAR platform (used by the 2 Series GC, X1, iX1) is already EV-ready. The iX1’s powertrain could easily be adapted for a 2 Series EV.
Competition Pressure:
- Tesla’s Model 3 and upcoming compact EVs are dominating the segment.
- Customer Demand:
- An electric version would keep BMW relevant in urban markets (Europe, China, US coasts).
What to Expect (Rumors & Predictions)
- Name: Likely i2 Gran Coupe (following BMW’s “i” naming for EVs).
- Battery & Range:
- ~60-70 kWh battery (similar to iX1).
- Range: 250-300 miles (EPA) / 400-500 km (WLTP).
- Performance:
- Single-motor (RWD, ~200 HP) and dual-motor AWD (~300+ HP) variants.
- Possible i2 M35 x Drive (performance model with 400+ HP).
- Design:
- BMW’s latest curved display, i Drive 9, and minimalist interior.
Possible Launch Timeline
- 2025-2026: Announcement likely as BMW fills gaps in its EV lineup.
- 2026-2027: Production start (possibly alongside a next-gen 2 Series GC).
Alternatives Right Now
- If you can’t wait, here are the closest current BMW EVs:
- BMW i4 (~$52k+):
- Larger but similar 4-door coupe style.
- 270-536 HP, up to 300 miles range.
- BMW iX1 (~$53k+):
- Shares the 2 Series’ platform but taller SUV body.
- 313 HP, 269-mile range.
What’s Holding BMW Back?
- Priorities: BMW is focusing on high-volume EVs (iX3, i5, iX2) first.
- Profit Margins: Smaller EVs like the i2 may be less profitable initially.
1.Evidence an i2 Gran Coupe is Coming
- Spy Shots & Patents:
- BMW has been spotted testing compact electric sedans disguised as current 2 Series models.
- Patent filings reveal designs for a “Neue KLASSSE-based compact EV” with Gran Coupe proportions.
- CEO Hints:
- BMW’s CEO Oliver ZIPSE teased in 2023: “Every model series will have at least one BEV variant—including the 2 Series.”
- Supplier Leaks:
- Battery suppliers hint at a “smaller-than-i4 electric sedan” entering production by 2026.
2. Technical Deep Dive: What’s Under the Hood?
- Platform:
- First gen (2026-2027): Likely an evolved FAAR EV (like iX1) to save costs.
- Second gen (~2030): Shift to Neue KLASSE for better range/performance.
- Performance:
- i2 eDrive35: Single-motor RWD, ~280 HP(0-60 mph ~5.5s).
- i2 xDrive40: Dual-motor AWD, ~340 HP(0-60 mph ~4.5s).
- i2 M50 (wildcard): 400+ HP, track mode (to rival Tesla Model 3 Performance).
3. Why BMW Might Delay or Cancel the i2 GC
- Profitability Fears:
- Small EVs are hard to monetize. The iX1 already fills the “entry-level EV” slot.
- BMW may prioritize higher-margin EVs (i5, i7, X5 EV).
- Market Overlap:
- An i2 GC could cannibalize i4 sales (which starts at $52k).
- BMW might wait for Neue KLASSE cost savings (post-2028) to make it viable.
- Regulation Loopholes:
- Stricter EU emissions rules exempt cars under 4m—so BMW could keep selling ICE 2 Series GC in Europe while focusing EVs elsewhere.
5. Insider Predictions: The Most Likely Scenario
- 2025: BMW announces i2 Concept at IAA Munich.
- 2026: Production starts in Mexico (for N.A. market) or Germany (for EU).
- 2027: Launch of M Performance variant (i2 M35 x Drive).
6. What Should You Do Now?
- If you’re a buyer: Lease an i4 or iX1 for 3 years—you’ll be ready to switch when the i2 GC drops.
- If you’re an investor: Watch for BMW’s 2025 Neue KLASSE reveals—if they preview a small sedan, the i2 GC is confirmed.
- If you’re a fan: Bombard BMW social media with #GiveUsThei2 memes. (It worked for the M3 Touring!)
What We Know From BMW’s Hidden Testing
- Codenames:
- “Project LEMA” – Internal name for the 2 Series EV development.
- Spy Shot Clues:
- Mules spotted in Munich with fake exhaust cutouts but no tailpipes.
- Flush door handles (like i X) but retaining frameless windows.
- Battery & Cooling:
- Structural battery pack (à la Tesla) to save weight.
2. Performance: The M Division’s Secret EV Playground
- BMW M is quietly developing performance EV tech using the i2 GC as a testbed:
- Quad-Motor Setup (M Prototype Only)
- 1 motor per wheel (like RIVIAN/RIMAC) for tank turns & drift mode.
- Over boost function: 10-second 650hp burst (for Nürburgring lap attempts).
- Simulated Manual Transmission (Leaked Patent)
- Fake gearshifts via haptic pedals & sound synthesis.
- Optional clutch pedal (for purists).
- Track Pack (i2 M50 x Drive)
- Carbon-ceramic brakes (unusual for an EV).
- AI Co-Pilot: Suggests racing lines via AR HUD.
1. The “Project LEMA” Files:
- Codenames & Hidden Testing:
- “LEMA” (Leipzig Electric Modular Architecture) – A sub-4.7m sedan designed to share 70% parts with the iX1 but with a lower, coupe-like roofline.
- Mule sightings in Sweden’s Arctic Circle (battery stress tests) had fake exhaust tips but charging ports hidden under BMW roundels.
- Prototype quirks: No B-pillars (suicide doors in early concepts, later scrapped for cost).
- Battery Secrets:
- CATL’s “QILIN” cells (same as i X) but in a T-shaped floor layout (unlike i4’s slab).
- “Range Extender” mode: Software-locked reserve battery (5-10% extra, unlockable via subscription).
2. The M Division’s Radical i2 M Performance Experiment
- BMW M is using the i2 GC as a testbed for forbidden EV tech:
- “E-Mirror” Drift Mode:
- Replicates combustion-engine inertia by disabling rear regen braking and simulating clutch kicks via sound/vibration.
- Leaked patent shows a steering wheel “bite point” haptic motor (like a manual transmission).
- Track-Only “M Boost” Battery:
- Sodium-ion cells (from BMW’s Solid Power JV) that won’t degrade under hard lapping.
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