It goes without saying that the SUV sector is one of the most successful in recent years and its popularity continues to increase.
The next evolution for this segment is aimed directly at electric drive technologies, driver aids, and connectivity, as well as achieving fairly high levels of autonomous driving. Mercedes and Audi have already got to work with the EQC and e-tron, so one of their historic rivals had no choice but to do the same. Of course, we’re talking about BMW.
To catch up with its biggest rivals, the Bavaria-based car manufacturer has finally unveiled one of its great bets in this field: An electric SUV that we initially knew as BMW Vision iNEXT but that will finally reach the market under the name of BMW iX.
BMW’s vision of electric mobility was made possible through its efficient BMW eDrive technology and fully electric all-wheel drive. Thanks to eDrive the BMW iX achieves extraordinary range and instantaneous acceleration. The intelligent BMW Operating System 8 is constantly updated and provides a completely intuitive user experience.
This BMW called to be the alternative to the Audi e-tron and Mercedes EQC is also the new flagship of the brand in terms of the level of technology and luxury.
The Design Of The iX
As we have already seen little by little during its long development period, this new BMW SUV has a body design that, unlike the iX3, will differ from that of any current BMW model, something that its designers have purposely done to make it quickly identifiable as the model of that new generation it represents.
Another Controversial Styling From BMW
With a dynamic yet controversial style with robust lines which many agree looks stunning in person, the iX presents an imposing front and a muscular hood that continues the forms of the double kidney grille that opts again for a vertical format like the company's latest models. And don’t be fooled by the photos, its size is similar to that of an X5, its height is that of an X6, and its wheels are the same size as an X7.
Pioneering BMW's New Era of Electrical Efficiency
The new member of BMW’s all-new fully electric trio, the iX xDrive50 offers a range of around 300 miles, (iX xDrive40: 243 miles) which makes it perfect for the city and long drives. Its efficient construction makes it possible to have an extremely low power consumption that doesn’t exceed 24.5 kW/h and excellent aerodynamics with an impressive drag coefficient (Cd) of just 0.25, hitherto unknown in its segment. The MyMode Efficient on the BMW iX further increases the already outstanding performance of the iX.
The Interior Of The iX Is So Austere Yet futuristic It Almost Feels Like Science Fiction
With two powerful electric motors and its all-wheel-drive electric system, we’re talking about BMW’s xDrive, the iX offers extraordinary electrical performance: 523 horsepower that propels the BMW iX xDrive50 from 0 to 60MPH in 4. 6 seconds (BMW iX xDrive40: 326 horsepower 0–60MPH in 6.1 seconds).
Instantly available torque and continuous acceleration from a standstill enable the BMW iX to respond accurately and spontaneously to every movement of the accelerator pedal which translates into a unique driving experience.
The iX Aims To Be The Safest BMW Ever
The iX also offers the most comprehensive set of driver assistance systems ever offered in a BMW. Forward Collision Warning now detects oncoming traffic when turning left (in countries where vehicles are driving on the right) and pedestrians and cyclists when turning right. The most exclusive safety features include the crossing alert with city braking function, advanced steering and lane departure warning assistants, and active cruise control with speed limit assistant.
To conclude this first look at the exclusive BMW SUV, let us highlight some of its most particular aspects. For example, the specific driving sound for each of the versions, with an authentic reaction to acceleration and speed, and the standard presence of the BMW IconicSounds Electric, a device that allows the integration of new sound variants produced thanks to the collaboration with famous soundtrack composer Hans Zimmer.
BMW Is Redefining Sustainability With The Production Of The iX
BMW has confirmed 3ach iX will use about 132 pounds of recycled plastic, plus, they will stop using metals from dubious sources and instated the company is sourcing its own raw materials and incorporating sustainable extraction of cobalt and lithium for their high-voltage batteries.
The use of chromium was almost eliminated. The wood is FSC certified, the leather has been tanned with olive leaf extract, and the floor and carpet coverings have been made from recycled fishing nets.
BMW is also making extensive use of secondary raw materials as well as natural and recycled materials from aluminum and plastic.
BMW iX Arrives In November
The production of the BMW iX will take place in the plant that the German firm has in Dingolfing, while the manufacture of the battery cells will be carried out using 100% green energy, from certified sources. The worldwide market launch will take place in November 2021.
The BMW iX will be available in Germany starting from $77,300 in iX xDrive40 mechanics. The starting price for the iX xDrive50 is yet to be confirmed.