Think about your drive to work in an SUV that listens and anticipates. That is the vibe BMW is going for when the iX3 debuts at the Munich Motor Show this September. The EV will be the first electric vehicle from BMW to be developed on their next generational platform, the “Neue Klasse,” which is a brand new platform that integrates all aspects of the vehicle from battery construction to onboard software better than ever before. BMW expects the model to offer up to 400 miles of range when it goes on sale in the U.S. But, the numbers are not what everyone is talking about; it’s the overall driving experience, which is quiet and smooth, the tech offerings, and comfort level that is turning heads.
That’s a Long Distance, With Low Downtime
The iX3's key talking point is its range, and speed of charging. The new 800V battery setup (similar to some ultra-performance EVs) is capable of 400 kW fast charging. Simply plug in and you can be back on the highway with 217 miles of range in about 10 minutes. This level of convenience completely changes the typical EV charging scenario. Depending on the location of highway chargers, it could make a U.S. road trip, or long commute, much easier. With minimal charging downtime, you'll be able to spend more time on the highway— the kind of freedom that would appeal to anyone who's ever felt that twinge of range anxiety in the middle of a drive.
Smart Tech That Feels Natural
When you enter the iX3, you are immediately confronted BMW's new Pano—Ramic iDrive cockpit, a wide expanse of a display that has unused area that is just shy of pillar to pillar. In addition, there is a subtle but effective 3D head-up screen at the top of the display that reinforces the cockpit tech integrations. Almost everything senses what you need before you even say it; you have an AI-charging door that opens when you draw near to a charging station, optional AI-assisted parking, plus lane change assist that is better than the ability of an average driver. The universe of the iX3 is clearly minimalist, but ambient lighting with touch-sensitive backlit buttons brings an understated elegance. This is not over-the-top gadgets; it is usable technology that is seamlessly integrated into your life.
Regenerative Braking: One-Pedal Driving
There are certainly fans of the one-pedal driving experiences. For the iX3, it's great. The regenerative braking system is capable of slowing the vehicle down to a stop without using a brake pedal. This minimizes a driver's use of the brake pedal as well as maintaining safer speeds without unnecessary acceleration. The system will automatically switch the regenerative braking between high and low levels based on the flow of traffic. This makes it relaxed when driving down city streets, and instead of double-pedalling, the driver can focus on the things on the road, or having a discussion with your co-pilot. BMW calls this “near one-pedal driving”. It is only a small change, but when it comes to your daily dominance, it is a very big change.
“Heart of Joy”: BMW's New Control Center
BMW talks a lot about emotion in their cars, and the iX3's "Heart of Joy" is quite literally the system all the vehicle's data gets funneled into. This computer is constantly working out what is happening with the drivetrain, braking, suspension and infotainment... and then applying that data behind the scenes, in real-time, such as a conductor directing an orchestral performance. Everything happens together, in harmony - whether you are merging onto the highway, leisurely cruising down the highway, or sit stopped at the red light. You won't even notice it's happening, but you will certainly feel it. You end up with an EV that feels alive, and precise, instead of robotic and disconnected.
Design That Feels Familiar, and Yet, Futuristic
BMW's debuted the iX3 and normally you would think that is a familiar design, and this cartoonish likeness to the X3 is the things we see in the car world. At first glance, it’s close to the reigning best selling hand size crossover in Canada the X3. However, upon closer inspection, BMW has replaced many traditional elements with varying degrees of development - i.e. concealed door handles, a so-called everyday take on led (light emitting diode) lighting, aerodynamically styled wheels. The iX3 has the classic BMW interior that is fresh and clean by design elements but has installed ambient zones with a soothing light look and feel. And, unlike other EV models on the market, the iX3 doesn't have a gas combustion grille, but it does have a couple of smooth fake air intakes - with clues of what to come: efficiency, comfort, and engineering precision.
Why it Matters in the North American Market
EV customers care about range, charging speed, and trusted companies. BMW has done such and more with the iX3 plas an ambitious new platform with an attractive price tag with robust federal funding and support along with strong brand support (charging partners for the EV experience in particular). It layers an EV footprint with a very European offering of both luxury and usability in a road package product you can familiarize yourself with but also be a fresh forward thinking product for consumers. It is equally appealing for families, tech fans, or generalized consumers wanting to ease into a comfortable step into electric - this instills the bracelets company's electric future is tangible not aspirational.
BMW iX3 Technical Specifications (U.S. Market)
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Conclusion
The all-new BMW iX3 represented more than just an electric variant of an existing SUV. The BMW iX3 is based on the brand's next-generation "Neue Klasse" platform. This new all-electric SUV displayed a comfortable mix of new technology advancements, range of motion, and logical design that felt natural and simple, not cluttered and excessive. For the U.S., buyers who want a luxury EV that additionally brings comfort, speed, and enhanced smart features of the vehicle—the iX3 may be the solution. Whether it is for the 400-miles of range, the faster charger, or simply a better day-to-day driving experience, this SUV looks like it will have a serious membership in the U.S. EV club, and it is set to debut this September in Munich.
Source(Image / Thumbnail): carscoops
