The first fourth-generation BMW 1 Series, a BMW 120, has rolled off the production line at BMW Group Plant Leipzig. This premium compact model, exclusively manufactured in Saxony, Germany, marks a significant milestone for BMW. The plant can produce up to 500 units of the 1 Series per day, contributing to a total daily output of 1,300 vehicles when combined with the BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe, BMW 2 Series Active Tourer, and MINI Countryman. The new BMW 1 Series is scheduled for market launch in October 2024.
A New Chapter in BMW’s Compact Segment
The fourth-generation BMW 1 Series continues the brand’s nearly 20-year legacy in the compact segment. Production began with the three-door model at Plant Leipzig in 2007, and since then, over 1.3 million units have been manufactured. By the end of June 2024, nearly 443,000 third-generation BMW 1 Series vehicles had been delivered to customers. “The new BMW 1 Series will remain a key factor in maintaining high capacity utilisation here at Plant Leipzig,” said Petra Peterhänsel, Plant Director.
This increase in production volumes is not only securing existing jobs but also creating new ones. By the end of 2024, an additional 900 people are expected to join vehicle production, bringing the total workforce at Plant Leipzig to around 7,000.
Dynamic Design and Enhanced Features
The new BMW 1 Series boasts a dynamic design, a revised drive portfolio, and improved chassis technology. The front end is notably flat and sits lower to the road, emphasising its sporty driving capabilities. The wide, forward-leaning radiator grille features an innovative arrangement of vertical and diagonal bars, while standard LED headlights give the car a striking “four-eyed face.”
The rear apron, vertical reflectors, two-part rear lights, and black diffusor-style insert contribute to the vehicle’s powerful appearance. Inside, the BMW 1 Series is now completely leather-free as standard, featuring a redesigned cockpit with the BMW Curved Display. The optional M Sport Package and M Sport Design equipment option, available at market launch in Europe, further enhance its dynamic look.
Innovative Contrast Roof
For the first time, the BMW 1 Series offers an optional contrast roof in high-gloss black, using an overspray-free painting process piloted at Plant Leipzig. This method is more resource-efficient and avoids the mist of excess paint typically produced during painting.
Market Launch and Key Markets
The new BMW 1 Series is set to launch on October 5, 2024. Germany, Europe, the UK, and Italy have been the strongest markets for the 1 Series so far, and the brand expects continued strong performance in these regions.
Upgraded Plant for Increased Capacity
Since 2018, BMW Group Plant Leipzig has undergone systematic upgrades, increasing its annual production capacity to 350,000 units—100,000 more than before. The plant now manufactures four models with three different types of drive by two brands on the same production line. The addition of the MINI Countryman to the production lineup in November 2023 has boosted output, with production of the MINI set to rise to 500 units per day, alongside approximately 800 BMW vehicles.
