Some approach electrification more and some less seriously. BMW has been present in this car segment for a long time, and now with the new iX3 model it is setting some new standards. The design of the car has always been a topic of debate among many drivers or just lovers of a particular brand or model, and my opinion is that in the end only the sales figures show whether something is more or less stylistically affected. I like it different, so there is no place for me to complain about the design, but let everyone judge for themselves.
The BMW iX3 is the first production model based on the new visionary platform called Neue Klasse. With this, BMW showed in which direction they think the future of electric vehicles is going. Modern in appearance, but more importantly technologically, this electric Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV) is designed for new buyers who know what they want.
Spacious and modern passenger cabin
It is a 478.2 cm long model built on a platform with a wheelbase of 289.7 cm. In addition to the spacious passenger cabin with enviable space on all seats, there is also a trunk with a volume of 520 liters, which can be expanded to 1,750 liters by folding the backrest of the rear bench. Let’s add to that 58 liters under the front cover, where the cables for charging the high-voltage battery can easily be placed.
Speaking of the battery, let’s mention that BMW has prepared an advanced battery with a capacity of 108.7 kWh. Its specificity is that it enables charging with a power of up to 400 kW. If you have an adequate DC charger available, you can get a range of 309 to 372 kilometers in just 10 minutes of charging. Also, in the technical characteristics, they state that the minimum DC charging time for 10 to 80% capacity can be done in just 21 minutes. It will be great when it will be feasible in practice and for our customers. For the daily routine, charging at home is possible with wallbox chargers of 11 kW, while a surcharge is possible for the optional 22 kW AC charging.
Range up to 805 kilometers
Depending on the performance, BMW has a declared range of up to 805 kilometers. According to some predictions, this should mean a realistic range of almost 600 kilometers. I believe you will agree that this is an excellent result. There are also advanced driver assistance systems and an interior designed according to the philosophy of pure modernity. Thus, the BMW iX3 is not just another electric model, but a complete vision of the mobility of the new era.
The passenger cabin is certainly dominated by the new Panoramic iDrive, which projects information across the entire width of the windshield. Thus enabling the driver to monitor navigation, traffic and key functions without taking his eyes off the road. BMW Operating System X brings a fast, intuitive interface with integrated applications, streaming services and gaming options. The intelligent voice assistant recognizes natural speech, which makes driving the vehicle simple and straightforward.
Large Panoramic iDrive
Advanced assistance systems recognize traffic lights, adjust speed to traffic conditions and make driving on the highway easier. Automated lane maintenance, parking assistance and environment monitoring contribute to safety and a more peaceful journey. Up to 98% of deceleration is achieved regeneratively, which increases range and makes driving smoother.
The interior is designed in a minimalist style with warm materials and carefully selected textures that create a pleasant atmosphere. ‘Floating’ screens, discrete ambient lighting and intuitively arranged controls enable easy use without visual strain. The seats of the new generation offer excellent support, while the airy spaciousness of the cabin enhances the feeling of comfort on every journey.
BMW’s Neue Klasse architecture introduces the ‘superbrain’ Heart of Joy, which coordinates the drivetrain, suspension and brakes in real time, enabling precise, stable and agile handling both on city streets and on the open road. The BMW iX3 50 xDrive delivers power of 345 kW / 469 hp, acceleration from 0-100 km/h in 4.9 seconds and electric drive to all wheels. A very strong emphasis is placed on aerodynamics. Thus, a drag coefficient of 0.24 was achieved, which contributes to quieter driving at higher speeds and greater efficiency and visual clarity.
Significant reduction of CO2
BMW started the development of the new generation of vehicles by applying the principle of ‘Design for Circularity’ and reducing CO2 emissions throughout the entire life cycle. The new BMW iX3 is the result of such a holistic approach. Thanks to a series of measures, the total carbon footprint of the BMW iX3 50 xDrive over 200,000 kilometers is 34% lower than that of the previous generation. When charging with energy from the European energy mix, the iX3 achieves a lower CO2 footprint than a comparable model with an internal combustion engine after approximately 21,500 kilometers, while when using renewable energy sources, the advantage is achieved after approximately 17,500 kilometers.
About one third of the vehicle is made from recycled materials – including 30% recycled marine plastic in the front compartment, 100% recycled PET in the Econeer textile and aluminum with up to 80% recycled content in suspension components and up to 70% in rims. Furthermore, the iX3’s supply chain reduces the CO2 footprint by an additional 35%, while production at the BMW Group plant in Debrecen takes place without the use of fossil fuels. In combination with the sixth generation of BMW eDrive technology, the new iX3 consumes 20% less energy than its predecessor (WLTP combined).
If you want one for yourself, feel free to go to the nearest dealer, and let’s mention that the price of the initial model starts at 68,875 euros. Depending on the level of equipment, i.e. additional options, of course, these prices can increase solidly, but it is important to know how to obtain the real ‘state of the art’ of electric mobility.
