BMW has presented its next electric car: the SUV iX3. It is the first model of the brand to be available with petrol and diesel engines as well as with a plug-in hybrid system and pure electric drive. The now unveiled series version of the iX3 introduces the new, fifth generation of the “eDrive” technology from the Bavarian premium provider, which will also be used in electric cars from 2021 iNEXT and i4 is used.
Unlike BMW’s first electric car, the small car developed exclusively as a Stromer i3, in the latest drive technology, the electric motor, power electronics and gearbox are arranged in a central housing. The battery housed in the vehicle floor has a gross energy content of 80 kWh (74 kWh usable) in the iX3, which is good for a range of up to 460 kilometers in the new WLTP test cycle.
In addition to supplying the 400-volt high-voltage battery, the charging unit of the iX3 also takes care of the 12-volt electrical system. When using AC connections, it allows single and three-phase charging with a power of up to 11 kW. When connected to a DC fast charging station, charging capacities of up to 150 kW can be achieved. According to BMW, the high-voltage battery can be charged from 0 to 80 percent of its capacity within 34 minutes.
The iX3’s electric motor generates a maximum output of 210 kW (286 hp) and a maximum torque of 400 Nm. The sprint from zero to one hundred succeeds in 6.8 seconds, the top speed is electronically limited to 180 km / h. By transferring power to the rear wheels, the manufacturer promises “a classic BMW driving experience combined with superior traction thanks to ARB and outstanding efficiency”. The combined consumption is 19.5 – 18.5 kWh / 100 km.
In addition to blue color accents, the model-specific design features of the electric X3 include BMW’s new ones Aerodynamic alloy wheels in 19 inch format. The front apron and the BMW kidney grille, like the underbody, are largely closed for better aerodynamics. The design of the rear should also benefit from the reduction in air resistance. Together with an aerodynamically developed underbody in the area of the rear diffuser and the chassis struts as well as an air flap control, this results in a drag coefficient of 0.29.
For the interior of the iX3, BMW promises customers the familiar premium ambience with model-specific features. Blue accents can be found in the interior as well as in the exterior. By folding down the rear seat backrest, which can be divided in a 40:20:40 ratio, the luggage compartment volume can be expanded from 510 to up to 1560 liters as required.
The electric version of the X3 SUV series is also produced for export at the Chinese production site in Shenyang. The iX3 is scheduled to be launched in China this year. BMW has not yet revealed when deliveries will begin in Europe. The prices for the iX3 start in Germany from 69,800 euros including 19 percent VAT or from 68,040.34 euros with 16 percent VAT.
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