BMW has just unveiled its first new-generation electric car, the highly anticipated iX3. This model is an electric version of the well-known family SUV X3. It will be manufactured for everyone at the Shenyang plant, the first Chinese-produced BMW to export to international markets. Its first deliveries will take place in late 2020.
Compared to the X3 from which it derived, the iX3 presents slight changes such as a fairing grille, that nevertheless maintains the brand’s classic look, a redesigned front bumper, aerodynamic tires capable of adding autonomy, and a rear diffuser. The model has an aerodynamic coefficient (Cx) of just 0.29, quite an achievement for an SUV.
The iX3 will be available with two equipment lines: the standard “Inspiring” variant and the “Impressive” top. The first will feature as a standard sports steering wheel, ambient lighting, power seats with memory function, metallic paint, 19-inch wheels, LED headlights, sunroof, gate with electric opening, Driving Assistant Professional, Park Distance Control with front parking sensors and rear, alarm and tire pressure sensor.
The second will add 20-inch wheels, adaptive LED headlights, keyless access, Vernasca leather upholstery, sports front seats with lumbar support, Head-up Display, High Beam Assistant, Parking Assistant Plus, gesture control, Harman Kardon sound system and WiFi access point. In both cases, the BMW IconicSounds Electric system will be present, an artificial sound developed by Hans Zimmer and the sound engineer of the BMW Group, Renzo Vitale, to improve the driving experience.
Thanks to this, the iX3 will be able to do the 0 to 100 km/h in just 6.8 seconds, with a top speed limited to 180 km/h. The battery, made up of 188 prismatic cells, will have a gross capacity of 80 kWh (74 useful kWh), which will allow it to achieve officially up to 285 miles on a full charge.
The maximum load power in direct current will be 150 kW, being able to recover 80% of its range in just 34 minutes. The model will also have adaptive regenerative braking (although the driver can also select the desired retention level) and a B mode that will allow the pedal to be driven.
The new model will feature the BMW OS 7.0 infotainment system and offer services such as BMW Charging and BMW Connected Charging to enhance the travel experience. Plugging into a 150kW public DC charger allows 80% battery capacity to be achieved in 34 minutes, while AC charging at up to 11kW is also included. Fast chargers are more likely to be found on the motorway, while the AC chargers are more suited for use at home or work.