BMW has revealed an intriguing development in the electric vehicle market with its 2027 3 Series, which offers both gasoline and electric versions of the same model. Remarkably, the electric variant, the i3 50 xDrive, is priced at $61,500, making it $4,400 cheaper than the gas-powered M350 xDrive, which costs $65,900. This price comparison is notable because it is rare to find electric vehicles directly comparable to their fossil fuel counterparts in terms of styling, power, and target customer base.

Automotive analysts have long anticipated that electric cars would eventually undercut gas vehicles on price, projecting this shift to occur by the mid to late 2020s. BloombergNEF had predicted this breakthrough in 2026, and BMW’s pricing confirms this trend is materializing sooner than many expected. The EV version benefits from BMW’s newest chassis and technology, whereas the gas model is built on an updated version of an existing platform. This modernization likely contributes to the EV’s competitive pricing alongside its technological advancements.

When it comes to range and usability, the two models are closely matched. The gas 3 Series can travel about 450 miles on a full tank, while the electric i3 can go slightly further, up to 468 miles on a single charge. BMW also highlights rapid charging capabilities for the EV, which can regain 208 miles of range in just 10 minutes. For many drivers, these figures make the experience of owning either model quite comparable, easing some concerns about range limitations typically associated with electric vehicles.

This pricing parity represents a significant milestone in the automotive industry, signaling that electric vehicles are not only cost-effective to run but now also more affordable to buy upfront. For consumers weighing between electric and gas models, BMW’s approach demonstrates that choosing an electric car no longer requires a price premium. As EVs become increasingly accessible, their adoption will likely accelerate, reshaping the market dynamics in the coming years.