For a generation you could set your watch on BMW’s ultra consistent, seven year models life-cycles. But longer model life-cycles are looking like a reality for both BMW and MINI. The issue is the volatility of the industry due in large part to the rise of electrification and autonomy.

MINI has already headed down this path with the current small generation of cars moving to a 9-10 year cycle. In MINI’s case it allows the GWM partnership to develop fully and for electrification to become more mature. This delay will however force BMW to roll-out another LCI update to the range to keep buyers interested.

Longer life-cycles

For BMW this approach is attractive as the company looks to navigate a changing industry. The first vehicle to get this longer life-cycle will be the i3 which should end production in 2023. This gives BMW enough time to finalize its FAAR WE platform expected to underpin fully electric versions of the 1 and 2 series along with the Countryman and other large MINIs.

We could also imagine other recently introduced products taking advantage of this approach as well with 2-3 LCI’s throughout their lives. Look for more concrete information in the coming months and BMW finalizes plans.