BMW will launch its iNext self-driving electric car in 2021, according to its chief executive Harald Krueger.

The new flagship for BMW's 'i' sub-brand lineup will be based on the Vision Next 100 concept unveiled in March at the Geneva Motor Show.

Krueger said the iNext will be able to drive itself in many situations and will have a new interior and offer a cutting-edge electric powertrain, Bloomberg reports.

The new saloon  is the centerpiece of BMW's effort to defend its position in the luxury-car market from challengers such as Tesla.

Currently, the sub-brand consists of the i3 EV and i8 plug-in hybrid, which are displayed in a dedicated area at BMW dealerships.

Krueger said the iNext will be "our new innovation driver, with autonomous driving, digital connectivity, intelligent lightweight design, a totally new interior and ultimately bringing the next generation of electro-mobility to the road."