Bayerische Motoren Werke, one of the “German Big 3” upscale automakers, is referred to as “BMW.” The English translation is Bavarian Motor Works. For its models, the BMW nomenclature has also adopted intricate Alpha-Numeric combinations. BMW models therefore employ a somewhat different combination than Audi.
For several of its models, BMW Nomenclature use numbers, such as 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7 & 8, followed by alphabets, such as “i,” “d,” & “x.” Other times, the BMW nomenclature includes an alphabet, such as “M,” “X,” or “Z,” followed by a model number. So, we made an effort to decode these letters and digits.
The odd numbers (3, 5, and 7) and even numbers (2, 4, 6, and 8) in the BMW Nomenclature are designated for 4-door sedans and 2-door coupes, respectively. The 1-Series is the smallest and least expensive BMW model offered, and is available as a Hatchback or Coupe/Convertible with a 3-door or 5-door option. The 8 series is the largest and most expensive BMW Luxury vehicle, though.
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BMW Clarifies What Model Numbers Mean Currently
The latest episode of the official BMW podcast explores the evolution of the company’s renowned naming scheme. You should feel (somewhat) less perplexed after reading this.
In the past, reading the model name of a BMW would reveal a lot about it. You were looking at a 3.0-liter gasoline engined 3-series if the badge on the boot said “330i.” The displacement didn’t always equal the last two digits, but generally it worked out that way. We could go on, but the majority of models adhered to the standard or at least didn’t wander too far from it. The E39 540i featured a 4.4-liter engine, the E82 125i utilized a 3.0 liter, and so on.
This approach was employed for many years, as stated in BMW’s most recent podcast, which makes use of portions of the business’ quite lengthy naming guide website page. Prior to World War Two, all automobiles had a 300 number to distinguish them from BMW bikes and airplanes (100s). Following the war, names were all over the place, but the ‘E12’ 5-series brought order to the chaos in 1972. BMW wanted a new system that would be simple for customers to comprehend regardless of the language they spoke.
The naming convention no longer functions this way, as some shockingly irate keyboard warrior types will loudly inform you. A human being! However, since displacement is no longer the primary method by which BMW delivers its customers greater power, the conventional approach is no longer viable.
The same size engine is currently used by numerous variations of each model, with the power outputs changed by various levels of turbocharging and occasionally by the addition of hybrid technology. We’re sure you’ll agree that having three separate products with the same name as 520d might be a little perplexing.
More recently, battery electric vehicles, which have no engines at all, have added to the complexity of the situation. Similar to what Audi started doing a few years ago, the last two digits of this and the majority of other BMW models now denote various output “tiers.” According to BMW, “45” refers to vehicles with an output of between 300 and 350kW. That is the total output with electrical aid, which explains why, despite the fact that the 540i and 545e hybrids both have the same internal combustion engine, the 545e hybrid has a higher figure.
The initial “e” did originally stand for the Greek letter “eta,” designating cars that were “optimised for torque and RPM,” according to BMW. These days, plug-in hybrid models employ it. Although “leccy M stuff” receives a simpler naming scheme, e.g. i4 M50, complete EVs like the i4 eDrive40 get a more modern moniker called “eDrive.”
Exclusively the Z and X model lines are designated for two-wheel drive, whereas the moniker xDrive is only applied to all-wheel drive derivatives that are available with and without the technology but are otherwise identical. As always, a badge with a “i” or “d” at the end denotes gasoline injection or diesel.
For example, a M Division’d 3-series is an M3, but on SUVs, the magic letter is coupled with just one number designating the “series” and appears after the model name. If it’s a M vehicle, you get the standard three-digit number, such as M550i, even though electric vehicles and SUVs only have two, for instance. X3 M40i.
SWISS
Originally, the “i” stood for fuel injection. The “i” model was first launched when Bimmers were still carbureted (that’s not written correctly). Fuel injection was used. The “i” later distinguished between the economy and performance models. I just know that.
Perhaps I should have said that I obtained that information from another user of this website. To me, it sounded right. I’ll double-check my sources the next time, I guess.
What does the I on BMW vehicles stand for?
You might have seen the designations 530i, 540i, or M550i on a 5 series sedan. The performance of the engine increases with the size of the last two digits in the number. A 540i, for example, will have greater power than a 530i. Originally, this number was directly related to the engine’s litre capacity; however, it is now used to denote overall power.
The fuel type is indicated by the letter at the end of each vehicle’s name. Gas models are identified by a “i,” diesel vehicles by a “d,” and plug-in hybrids by a “e.” BMW’s electric I Models feature a “i” before the digits in the car name, which is confusing. Therefore, a BMW 330i is gas-powered whereas a BMW i4 from 2022 is electric.
The meaning of BMW i3
647 cc W20K06U0 25 kW I2range extender 7.2 L (1.9 US gal) in the US (from 2014 to 2016) and 9 L (2.4 US gal) in the US (from 2017 and beyond)
The BMW i3 is a BMW-made, high-roof, B-segment hatchback with an electric drivetrain that utilizes rear-wheel drive, a single-speed transmission, an underfloor lithium-ion battery pack, and an optional gasoline engine that can expand the vehicle’s range. The BMW i3 was the company’s first mass-produced zero-emission vehicle and was introduced under the BMW I sub-brand for electric vehicles.
The Richard Kim-designed i3 comes with a single five-door configuration, a CFRP (carbon fiber reinforced polymer) passenger module that is extremely lightweight and strong, and a lower aluminum module that houses the chassis, battery, drive system, and motor. Two smaller clamshell rear doors with rear hinges are included on the bodywork. The i3 had its concept premiere at the 2011 International Motor Show Germany, and Leipzig manufacturing of the vehicle started in September 2013.
From 2014 to 2016, it was the third-best-selling electric vehicle in the world; by the end of 2021, it had sold over 220,000 units globally. With over 47,500 units supplied until December 2021, Germany is listed as its top-selling market, followed by the United States with more over 45,000.
The 2014 World Green Car of the Year and 2014 World Car Design of the Year were both given to the i3, earning it two World Car of the Year Awards. The i3 won the first UK Car of the Year Awards for Best Supermini of 2014 and UK Car of the Year 2014, each of which came with an iF Product Design Gold Award.
What does the I in the BMW i8 stand for?
Born Electric served as the tagline for the 2011 launch of the BMW I brand. The letter “i,” which once stood for injection in BMW’s gasoline and diesel engines, is now used to represent the future of mobility. A comprehensive approach to sustainable mobility is embodied by the BMW i. BMW considers not only the final product but also the manufacturing process, which now makes use of 100% green energy, renewable and recycled materials, and digital services while using 70% less water.
The first vehicle in the I Series was the BMW i3, which was introduced in 2014. Due to the combination of aluminum and carbon fiber, the i3 is an eco-friendly electric vehicle for city driving that isn’t any heavier than a regular vehicle. comprising a synchronous electric motor with a single gear and utilizing a 94Ah lithium-ion high-voltage battery It has 170 horsepower, enabling a 0-62 mph time of 7.3 seconds, but it also has a 186-mile range.
Eighty percent of all surfaces visible to front passengers on the i3 are constructed of recyclable or renewable materials, making it a showcase for environmentally friendly products. When it comes to resources, BMW I is also thinking along those lines; starting in 2021, its electric motors will utilize two-thirds less cobalt and no rare earths. One of the most popular high-end electric vehicles in Europe is the BMW i3.
What does the M on a BMW mean?
The word “Motorsport” refers to the BMW M Series, which was initially developed to support BMW’s racing program. Over time, the BMW M program started to add customized vehicle models to its roster, which are now accessible to the general public.
What does the I stand for in the BMW i3?
BMW i-model cars. A complete and innovative idea for sustainable mobility is represented by BMW i. It stands for forward-thinking electric cars and mobility services, beautiful design, and a new view of premium that is highly influenced by sustainability.
What does 40i in a BMW mean?
The 6-cylinder versions are represented by the 40i series. Jan. 26, 2021 The primary distinction is that the sDrive is rear-wheel drive while the xDrive is all-wheel drive.
What does BMW mean by 135i?
The 135i is the top-of-the-line coupe and convertible vehicle in the majority of countries. The N54 twin-turbo 3.0-liter engine with a 6-speed manual or 6-speed automatic transmission powered the 135i from 2007 to 2010. The N55 single-turbo 3.0 liter engine with a 6-speed manual or a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission replaced the 135i engine starting in 2010. Due to less fluid being needed in the differential, the double-helical ball bearings used in the differential installed to the 135i operate at a lower temperature and heat up more quickly. The brakes on the 135i have disk diameters of 324 mm and 338 mm, respectively, and feature 6-piston front calipers and 2-piston rear calipers.
The E81/E87 hatchback range’s highest model, the 130i, went on sale in September 2004. Its N52 3.0 liter normally aspirated engine is mated to either a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed automatic transmission.
What does F30 on a BMW mean?
Let’s begin with the fundamentals. BMW’s naming practices can be a little perplexing with so many titles that seem similar, such as BMW 3 Series, BMW 320i, and BMW F30. F30 is the one you’re probably least likely to hear out of the three. Instead of using the term “F30,” people typically refer to their vehicles as BMW 325i or 335i.
When you break something down, you can see how it functions. The BMW 3 Series is a line of small executive vehicles that sits below the larger 5 Series. Since it began to be produced in 1975, the 3 Series has undergone numerous iterations.
BMW’s internal model code for the sixth-generation 3 Series sedan, which was built between 2011 and 2019, is F30. With this model code, it can be distinguished from 3 Series cars from earlier BMW generations, such as the E90, E46, and E36.
Describe BMW F20.
The subcompact automobiles BMW F20 (5-door hatchback) and BMW F21 (3-door hatchback) are part of the second generation of the BMW 1 Series. From 2011 through 2019, BMW developed the F20/F21 generation, which is frequently referred to as the F20.
The coupe and convertible variants of the BMW 1 Series’ second generation were sold separately under the new BMW 2 Series moniker.
Initially, inline-four gasoline, inline-four diesel, and inline-six gasoline engines were used to power the F20/F21. Inline-three gasoline and diesel engines were added to the model lineup in 2015. Every engine has a turbocharger.
The F20/F21 utilises rear-wheel drive (rather than front-wheel drive) for the majority of versions, in contrast to most hatchback rivals. The first 1 Series to offer an optional all-wheel drive is the F20/F21.
The BMW 1 Series (F40), which replaces the F20, started manufacturing in July 2019.