BMW i4: High Demand Leads to Additional Shifts

Except for Tesla's Model 3, the i4 does not face much competition so far – especially since it scores with its Gran Coupé design and is very close to the core brand – the 3 Series from which it is derived. This seems to be well-received, especially since the combustion engine versions of the 4 Series Gran Coupés have also been presented, but did not cause much of a stir. Due to the high demand for the i4, additional shifts may be needed at the Munich plant. "Wirtschaftswoche" has already reported that the waiting time for the i4 has swollen to up to nine months.

Moreover, the i4 is less affected by semiconductor shortages. According to Munich plant manager Peter Weber, it enjoys a "certain priority" in supply. This seems to be reflected in the demand. Therefore, BMW intends to introduce Saturday shifts in Munich in the first quarter. According to a spokeswoman, discussions with the works council are already underway. One option would also be to relocate part of the 3 Series production to other locations, such as Mexico.

Production already started at the end of October, even slightly earlier than originally planned. According to Sales Director Pieter Nota, there is currently a significantly five-digit number of orders for the i4 in Europe alone. This is significant, considering that around 1,000 3 and 4 Series models can be built daily.

The i4 runs on the same line as the 3 Series and 4 Series with gasoline, diesel, and hybrid engines. Especially the chassis and rear section are significantly different, causing the main differences to arise in the body-in-white – less in the final assembly. Nevertheless, the i4 is the "exotic" on the line.

What does that mean?

Even for the 3 Series and 4 Series, everything seems to be moving towards a rapid "tipping point": After recently having to let the Tesla Model 3 lead even in Germany, BMW now has a real competitive product in hand – one that the customers seem to have been waiting for.