The concept to be shown in September is the first vehicle on BMW Group's New Class electric-first platform, which will cover the entire range starting in 2025, a source at the brand said.

The absence of the 159-year-old German brand, along with Stellantis siblings Alfa Romeo, Citroen, Fiat, Jeep and Peugeot, from the country's biggest auto show hurts organizers trying to revamp the event.

The Megane EV will have a range of 450 km when it launches at the end of the year. It will compete against the VW ID3, the Kia EV6 and the Citroen C4 as well as coming entrants from the Stellantis group.

In an interview with Automotive News Europe, Kallenius said he is expecting a visitor-friendly, open-air event focused on celebrating the car and mobility.