BMW Revamps Model Naming: 'i' Reserved for Electrics Only

You know how German car companies love messing with how they name their cars? Well, BMW's doing it again, but this time it actually makes sense! They're dropping the "i" from all their gas and diesel models. Yep, no more 330i or X5 40i. But don't worry, all their cool electric cars will still have the "i" out front.

Okay, so why the change? Remember how the "i" used to mean fancy fuel injection instead of old-school carburetors? It's been around since like, the 1970s! But let's face it, fuel injection's hardly groundbreaking anymore. Now, BMW wants that "i" to be all about electric cars.

Bernd Köber, BMW's big shot in charge of branding, explained it pretty well: "We always saw the 'i' as representing innovation, not just electric cars. But, let's be honest, having the 'i' on everything kinda watered it down, right? So, we're keeping it special for our electric lineup."

Speaking of electric BMWs, I had to ask about those wild M Performance names. You know, the i4 M50 and that crazy powerful i7 M70? Well, guess what – it sounds like they're not planning to go beyond three digits. Too bad, I would've loved to see an iX M100!

Anyway, besides the upcoming X3, models like the 1-Series and 2-Series Gran Coupe will be losing their "i" badges pretty soon. Even the fancy 7-Series is probably ditching the "i" sometime in 2026.

Honestly, it's a smart move. Back when the "i" was all about fuel injection, it made sense. Now, with BMW going all-in on electric alongside their classic gas engines, this keeps things way less confusing.