BMW has announced its plans to introduce a new sub-category line of cars that are based on electric technology. The first two models, the BMW i3 and BMW i8, will be ready for sales in 2013.

The new BMW i brand is a direct response to consumers desiring hybrid and electric cars. Formally referred to as the Megacity concept, these new cars will feature new drive trains that utilize green technologies.

The BMW i3 is a completely electric vehicle, geared toward the urban consumer. The BMW i8 is a hybrid which combines the sporty style of a BMW with the fuel efficiency of an economy car.

Both cars will be constructed of lightweight materials, aluminum for the chassis and a special plastic polymer for the compartment, enabling the cars to attain better mileage.

The BMW i series will be constructed in Leipzig, Germany and will create at least 800 new jobs by 2013. BMW is investing 400 million Euros into the plant and believes it can reduce production costs by using the same electric components on both models.