BMW has used the “i” in its models for decades, and the origin of this trend (in other manufacturers) is associated with the type of fuel supply. When the gasoline supply was replaced by carburetors with more sophisticated and efficient injection, the “i” became part of the model names. And some were very iconic, from the affordable 316i and 318i to the famous 528i and 635i, which represented the brand in the world of racing. It turns out that with the advent of electric vehicles, some confusion has arisen.
Gasoline models always used the “i” at the end, unlike battery models, which moved the letter to the beginning, a trend that started with the i3 and has continued ever since. But the Germanic builder concluded that This logic creates confusion and confuses customers.who think there is an extra “i” in the range.
According to a BMW executive, speaking with BMWBlog, The German manufacturer decided to stop using the “i” in gasoline models.All the more so since the brand that produced its first injection engine in 1972 (installed in the 732i and Bosch Motronic injection) has long ago abandoned the manufacture of carburetor engines. But the reality is that it will seem strange to see a gasoline BMW with only 320 in the rear…
According to the same source and as an example, the next , called M40i. According to BMW Vice President Bernd Köber, The brand intends for the “i” to be immediately associated with driving a 100% electric vehicle.
Source: Observadora
