BMW has announced its sub-brand for ‘sustainable, premium mobility solutions’- its electric and hybrid vehicles - will be known as i.

Two models will be launched under the sub-brand from 2013: the BMW i3, known as the Megacity Vehicle in concept form, and BMW i8, based on the Vision EfficientDynamics concept. Around €400 million will be invested in new plan facilities.

An additional range of mobility services – which can also be used independently of the cars – will be an integral component of BMW i.

This could include helping users plan their routes using various transport modes, or car-sharing.

This will allow the creation of a new, profitable area of business over the long term and attract new customers to the company’s brands, said Ian Robertson, board member for sales and marketing.

“Mobility requirements are changing in rapidly expanding megacities,” he added.

"What’s truly groundbreaking is that we’ll begin offering car-independent premium mobility services. BMW i aims to provide customised mobility solutions across a seamless network of premium products and premium services.

"The focus is on solutions which will improve usage of existing parking spaces, as well as intelligent navigation systems with local information, route planning, and premium car-sharing."