They could be killed by tightening emission regulations.
Many automakers have made bold plans to electrify the future. Some automakers are moving quickly to fully electric portfolios while others are teetering on the edge of electrification using a combination full EVs or hybrids. But not all cars can make it through that transition.
The future of BMW’s front-wheel-drive, small-sized models could be at risk as the industry changes. A new Autocar report has this to say. A source close to the company claims that the UKL architecture underpinning several BMW Group models, including the next-generation Mini, BMW X1 and the next-generation Mini, can’t accommodate larger hybrid powertrains. This could be a requirement if BMW intends to keep offering these models in Europe.
According to the source, another obstacle facing the platform is the lack of sales volume. The small BMW cars don’t do well in the US. However, small sedans are extremely popular in China and have strong sales numbers. BMW would have to stop selling small cars in the US, leaving it open to competition and possibly not wanting to go back.
Another potential problem for the platform could be Europe’s tightening emission regulations. This could mean that automakers will have to install larger catalytic convertors in order to reduce pollution. This is just one of the potential obstacles that BMW engineers and designers may have to overcome when designing future UKL-based models.
Planners of automotive products have to be able to anticipate the future. This is a difficult task. Every year, battery and charging technology improves. The next-gen X1 will be equipped with mild-hybrid gas engines and turbodiesel engines. There is also a rumored plug in hybrid option. This allows for some electrification, but may not be cost-effective enough to offset the increased costs of moving to EVs. The new Mini could even have a plug in hybrid variant. But only time will tell if this is still possible.