BMW is launching a smaller, more affordable EV

This one is about cars, not home energy upgrades, but here's the gist in case you're curious. BMW has confirmed plans for a new entry-level electric vehicle, part of its "Neue Klasse" line of EVs, arriving in 2028. The company says it will focus on Europe, and insiders report the car (internally called "NBO") will be a five-door hatchback expected to be sold as the i1, likely alongside BMW's gas-powered 1 Series but built on the newer electric platform.

The i1 is expected to slot in price and size between the MINI Cooper Electric and BMW's iX1 or iX2 SUVs. Cheaper versions would likely come with rear-wheel drive, while pricier versions add all-wheel drive. There's also talk of a related electric sedan, the i2, arriving around 2030, though BMW hasn't confirmed that model yet.

None of this is aimed at US buyers — the i1 is designed for the European market. If BMW does bring a cheaper EV to America, it would more likely be that future i2 sedan. For comparison, BMW just opened orders for its new 2027 i3 sedan, starting at $61,500, the same starting price as its iX3 SUV. So for now, Americans looking for a more affordable BMW EV will have to wait and watch how these plans develop.