BMW says all models will soon get some form of electrification

2014 BMW i3

i3 and i8 lead the way

A BMW representative recently declared all of the company's models will soon receive some type of electrification in order to meet more stringent emissions regulations.

In an interview given to Autocar, BMW's board member for development Herbert Diess said all models will have to be sold with some form of electrification - whether it will be hybrid or EV - even though some customers will not want these models. Most of BMW's upcoming electric technology will be implemented on their European models since the emissions regulations are stricter on the old continent than anywhere else.

Diess added BMW's main target is to meet the fleet average CO2 emissions of 95 g/km by 2020 in Europe while "delivering real driving pleasure." He recognized the only way BMW will be able to lower the CO2 average across its fleet will be to offer a high percentage of electric cars. He concluded the statement by saying "electrification will be a central thread in what we do, be it plug-in hybrid, hybrid or full electrification."

BMW has already started slashing CO2 emissions with the launch of its "i" sub brand that currently contains the i3 and i8 models. Rumors are suggesting an i5 family car will be added but not before mid-2015.