This guest editor article was written by Jonny Berry, Head of Decarbonisation, Innovation & Strategy at Novuna Vehicle Solutions. Find out more about Novuna Vehicle Solutions, here.
I’ve spent the last 10 years driving electric vehicles — from Tesla to Mercedes, Nissan, and Renault. The past month in the BMW i4 has reminded me of one thing: the future isn’t coming — it’s already here. While Tesla and other new EV brands have led the charge, legacy OEMs like BMW are showing they still know how to build great cars. But in 2025, is being great enough?
The i4 is more than just a well-built EV — it’s proof that BMW is serious about electrification. With features like plug-and-charge capabilities, they’re making ownership as seamless as possible. And when it comes to design, BMW’s future is crystal clear with the upcoming Neue Klasse — a bold design shift that signals they’re fully committed to the electric transition. The i4 shows BMW is on their way, but the Neue Klasse is where they’re headed.
Meanwhile, the EV market is experiencing an explosion of new brands, particularly from China, with companies like BYD, NIO, and XPeng setting new standards for innovation, affordability, and technology. These brands aren’t just making EVs — they’re exporting them at scale, reshaping the competitive landscape. For all OEMs, the message is clear: it’s time to move, and move fast.
Yet, in conversations with colleagues driving new EV brands like Tesla, there’s still genuine admiration for legacy names like BMW. After a month in the i4, I understand why. The craftsmanship, reliability, and comfort are undeniable. The premium materials, the thoughtful design, and, yes, the reassuring click of real buttons — it feels like you’re getting a bit more for your money.
Legacy OEMs also have another advantage: existing infrastructure. There’s a BMW garage just around the corner from me, and for fleets, that kind of established support network is invaluable — especially when 68% of EVs are purchased by companies. This infrastructure makes the transition to electric feel safer and more manageable for businesses.
But legacy automakers can’t afford to rest on reputation alone. Brands like Jaguar, with their recent rebrand, are showing what’s possible when tradition leaps into the future. With new competitors rising rapidly, particularly from China, all OEMs need to fully embrace electrification or risk becoming irrelevant.
So, which side are you on? The pioneering spirit of new EV brands, the wave of Chinese innovation, or the refined quality and trusted infrastructure of legacy manufacturers?
The BMW i4 makes a compelling case that you don’t have to choose. Legacy is catching up, and if BMW is anything to go by, the future is looking very electric.
