BMW ix1 set for Australian launch from $82,900 - could this be the best BMW SUV?

BMW’s iX1 is a restrained-yet-contemporary design, but won’t be available in North America. Images: BMW AG.

The BMW x1 was first introduced in 2009 as a subcompact SUV, and over the last 12 years, over one million vehicles have been produced. The first all-electric iX1 will be based on the company’s FAAR platform (think 1-series, 2-series, X1 and X2 models) which is a flexible architecture designed for front-wheel drive combustion, hybrid and electric drivetrains.

Specifications:

Power unit - Twin motor electric

Drive - All wheel (xDrive)

Power (kW) - 230

Torque (Nm) - 494

HV battery (kWh) - 65

0-100km/h (sec) - 5.6

Consumption (kWh/100km) - 19.0-16.8

EV range (WLTP) - Up to 440km

The BMW ix1 will start from $82,900 plus on-road costs in Australia - good value in our eyes for premium SUV with around 400km of real-world range, plentiful standard equipment and impressive performance figures. Customers will be able to choose the xLine or M Sport variant, for no additional cost:

BMW iX1 Standard Equipment - Australia

- Metallic paintwork  

- Panorama Glass Sunroof

- BMW IconicSounds Electric

- Active Sport Seats featuring lumbar support and massage function

- Tyre pressure monitoring system

- Adaptive M Suspension
- harmon/kardon Surround Sound System

- Sensatec upholstery (new generation, perforated)

- Seat heating, front

- DAB Digital Radio
- Navigation system with augmented reality technology

- Reversing camera

- Sport leather steering wheel

- 19-inch alloy wheels
- Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- Wireless phone charging
- xLine styling inc. roof rails
- Two-zone automatic climate control
- Adaptive LED headlights
- Automatic tailgate
- BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant
- BMW Live Cockpit Professional
- Comfort Access and Digital Key
- Connected Package Professional
- BMW Head-Up Display
- Instrument panel in Sensatec
- M headliner in Anthracite
- Mirror package inc. anti-dazzle function
- Remote Software Updates

- Driving Assistant Professional inc. Steering and Lane Control System, Active Cruise Control inc.

Stop&Go and Blind Spot Monitor
- Parking Assistant Plus with Surround view camera, Reversing Assistant and Drive Recorder
- BMW electric xDrive intelligent all-wheel-drive system

Charging features

- 22kW AC onboard charging capability

- 130kW DC onboard charging capability
- Flexible Fast Charge Cable (Mode 2)
- Public Charging Cable (Mode 3)
- 3-year complimentary Chargefox Subscription

While the iX1 “only” charges at a peak of 130kW when plugged into a DC fast charger, this should still be enough to replenish 10-80% of range in around 30 minutes. Like with the iX3 and iX battery electric vehicles, BMW Australia provides a 3 year complimentary Chargefox DC fast charging subscription.

Should customers have access to 3-phase power, the iX1 will charge at up to 22kW on AC electricity. The iX1 will offer connectivity to the My BMW App - something that is now expected from EVs on sale. The app will allow the remote setting of climate control, as well as managing charging timers, and pre-entering navigation destinations in the vehicle.

The iX1 will feature the company’s dual-screen setup, and a range of premium materials.

Colours and Trims

Non-metallic (no cost option)

- Alpine White
Metallic (all no cost options)
- Mineral White

- Black Sapphire

- Space Silver
- Phytonic Blue^
- M Portimao Blue
- Sanremo Green^
- Cape York Green
- Utah Orange^
BMW Individual
- BMW Individual Frozen Pure Grey metallic: $3200

Upholstery

• Sensatec, Black (No cost option)

• Sensatec, Oyster (No cost option)

• Sensatec, Mocha (No cost option)

• Alcantara/Sensatec combination, Black contrast stitching in blue (M Sport only)

Interior trims

• Fine wood trim Eucalyptus open-pored (No cost option)

• Interior trim finishers Aluminium ‘Mesheffect’ (No cost option)

• Interior trim finishers Aluminium Hexacube dark (M Sport only)

The BMW iX1 will launch in Q1 2023, and BMW will be looking to compete with Volvo’s XC40 Recharge, the Mercedes-Benz EQB and Tesla’s Model Y. Stay tuned for more information closer to the launch.

The BMW iX1 xDrive30: first information on entry-level Premium EV SUV

The BMW iX1 xDrive30 sports some familiar design cues. Images: BMW AG

BMW continues its electrified product push, revealing the iX1 SUV. Based on the automaker’s flexible architecture which underpins combustion, hybrid and fully electric models, the iX1 xDrive30 offers impressive performance figures and stats. This isn’t your entry level BMW any more; expect a premium price to justify the iX1’s offerings:

• All wheel drive, dual motor setup

• 230kW (313 hp) with boost mode and overall torque of 494 Nm (364 lb-ft)

• 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) sprint in 5.7 seconds

• Estimated 413 – 438 km (257 – 272 mile) range

• DC charging up to 130 kW with a 68 kWh battery

BMW iX1 xDrive30 Image Gallery

The iX1 xDrive30 will join the BMW i4, iX3 and iX in the model range, and is the first premium compact SUV from the brand. We anticipate it will go head to head with the Tesla Model Y, Mercedes-Benz EQA and EQB, and the Volvo XC 40 Recharge; all strong value propositions.

There’s a 68 kWh battery - smaller than the 80 kWh unit fitted to the iX3. The iX1 weighs a relatively athletic 1,800kg - 450kg lighter than the iX3 but should still offer plenty of space, comfort and convenience for passengers.

Rapid DC charging peaks at 130 kW, and will take around 29 minutes to charge from 10 -> 80 percent. Single phase 7 kW AC charging will see the same charge take around 10 hours. BMW quotes a WLTP range of between 413 – 438 km.

BMW’s iX1 will offer leather and Sensatec (man-made) trim options.

The interior of the iX1 retains familiar BMW design cues; the three-spoke steering wheel, dual “floating” screen setup and familiar i-Drive system are all present, but the automaker has added what appears to be a new style of drive controller in the raised central arm rest. There’s wireless phone charging, leather, upholstery, and an animal-free Sensatec trim option.

According to Australian BMW dealers, pricing has yet to be confirmed, however customers are able to place a deposit on the iX1 to secure a position in the queue. We expect a launch edition of the iX1 to appear in Australia late in 2022, with customer vehicles due in Q1 2023.

Hyundai and Kia set to bring vehicle smartphone apps to Australian customers this year

Hyundai’s Bluelink app will debut on the Palisade later this year, before being rolled out to electric models. Images: Hyundai Australia

Welcome news this week as both Hyundai and Kia have announced Australian customers will soon have access to smartphone apps with connected car services, allowing owners to connect to their respective vehicles and even remotely set functions for battery electric models. This functionality — or lack thereof —has been a sore point for many Australian buyers investing in the Korean brands’ latest models, with the feature available on Tesla, Volvo and Polestar models.

Hyundai’s Bluelink app will debut alongside the 2023 Palisade in the second half of this year, before “gradually rolling out across the Hyundai model range”. Hyundai Australia hasn’t stated just when (or if) owners of current MY22 IONIQ 5 electric vehicles will be able to use the app with their vehicles.

According to Hyundai, The Hyundai Bluelink app lets users find their car, or search for a destination, parking space, service station or restaurant on their smartphone, and then send the location straight to the in-car navigation system.

In the event of an accident that causes the airbags to deploy, the vehicle will automatically call for help, with emergency assistance also available by pressing the SOS button 24/7, 365 days a year.

Bluelink also brings quick access to important data such as driving information records, as well as letting users keep an eye on key parts of their Hyundai including tyres, brakes, airbags and other safety and security features. Last Mile Navigation lets users continue the in-car route guidance on their smartphone after parking, all the way to their desired destination.

The Bluelink app will give Hyundai drivers access to vehicle controls and more.

EV specific features of Bluelink

EV models take this remote-control functionality even further, allowing users to schedule cabin heating and cooling. Scheduled charging can also be controlled remotely, to capture off-peak electricity rates and manage charging for battery life.

Kia’s app, dubbed Kia Connect, provides customer benefits in safety and security, control, connectivity, and LIVE services by using telematics to transfer real time data such as weather and traffic information, charging station information and more. Kia’s Voice Car Control system featuring Natural Voice Recognition technology allows occupants to control key vehicle systems such as temperature and audio settings.

Kia Connect will debut in Australia on the MY23 Niro HEV and EV GT-Line models. Image: Kia Motors

Kia Connect to debut with the 2023 Niro HEV and EV GT-Line

The Kia Connect smartphone app will also allow users to connect with their vehicle remotely. Drivers can sync calendars, plan journeys with online navigation and access onboard features including live traffic alerts and real-time weather forecasts. An End Destination Guidance feature helps customers navigate to their destination on foot once their all-new Niro is parked using Google Maps and augmented reality (AR) technology. Valet Mode enables customers to monitor their vehicle remotely when it is being driven by another user, providing added peace of mind.

Kia Connect will debut on the new Niro HEV and EV in GT-Line trims when the vehicle debuts in Australia next month. Functionality will include:

A screenshot from our first experience with Volvo’s smartphone app

• Remote engine start

• Remote climate control

• Remote door lock/unlock

• Remote seat heating/ventilation control

• Check vehicle status

• Valet Parking mode

• Kia Connect Live Services

• Emergency call (Safety and Security)

• Vehicle Tracking (Safety and Security)

• Stolen Vehicle Ignition Control (Safety and Security)

• Send Destination 2 Car (from Smartphone)

• Local Search

• Voice Control (eg.Temperature/Weather info/Handsfree call)

• Integrate personal calendar and show calendar events

• EV Charging Station locations

Many manufacturers claim advancements in connectivity and voice recognition systems, but we still find that Google is the leader in this field, and Polestar’s full integration of Google’s Android Automotive system is the best in the business. It makes us wonder why OEMs continue to invest in in-house systems.

While Tesla’s app connectivity is still the benchmark in terms of the user interface and experience, offering full remote control of the vehicle’s charging, climate, lights, storage compartments and “summon” driving on some models, other brands are cottoning on pretty quickly. Volvo and Polestar now offer connected smartphone apps, as do BMW, Ford and Mercedes-Benz in some markets.

Kia Australia announces specifications and pricing of 2022 EV6

Kia’s EV6 GT (left, centre) and EV6 Air (right) Images: Kia Australia

• EV6 Air rear wheel drive (RWD) priced from $67,990 (MSRP) - 168kW/350Nm, 0-100km/h in 7.3 seconds with 528km WLTP range

• EV6 GT-Line RWD priced from $74,990 - 168kW/350Nm, 0-100km/h in 7.3 seconds with 504km WLTP range

• EV6 GT-Line all wheel drive (AWD) priced from $82,990 - 239kW/605Nm, 0-100km/h in 5.2 seconds with 484km WLTP range

Kia has used its major sponsorship of the Australian Open to launch the flagship EV6 electric vehicle. priced from $67,990 in rear wheel drive entry-level guise, the EV6 undercuts a number of its competitors on price, including the Hyundai IONIQ 5 2WD based on the same vehicle platform. The Hyundai starts from $71,900, with a slightly smaller battery than the Kia, albeit with more standard equipment.

The EV6 debuts Kia’s evolution of its “Tiger face” styling; a digital tiger face if you will. Karim Habib, head of Kia design announced last year that while future electric products (including the EV6) would keep elements of the brand’s signature look, he said “What you see [on the new EV6] is what we like to think of as the ‘digital tiger face’. As we move away from the grille that is really there to be an air intake, it’s more how to combine all the elements in the front and how to create an identity in the front that is based in the tiger nose.”

The EV6 takes a complete different design direction to Hyundai's parametric pixel language found on the IONIQ 5; a more sculpted, sporty and athletic presence highlight’s the brand’s performance ambitions.

The EV6 comes standard in Australia with SK Innovation’s 77.4 kWh battery system, trumping Hyundai’s 72.6 kWh battery (just). Those extra kilowatt hours translate to an additional 77km of range though, and with 528km WLTP range in rear wheel drive guise, the EV6 becomes a member of the 500km club, alongside Tesla’s Model 3 LR, Model S Plaid, and upcoming BMW iX and Mercedes-Benz EQS.

The Kia EV6 GT-Line rear features a striking LED light signature.

What comes as standard in the EV6?

Standard Equipment is good, and broadly follows Kia’s thinking from previous electric models. The rear wheel drive EV6 receives 19” alloy wheels, solar glass with an acoustic film windscreen, flush door handles (not auto folding), cloth/faux leather seats, twin 12.3” curved displays, wireless phone charging, and a crucial feature missing from the IONIQ 5 down under, an interior Vehicle to Load (V2L) connector, allowing EV6 owners to plug any household device into the car. Happily, Kia Australia has listened to us (and other motoring writers) and included the majority of its safety and assistance systems as standard in both EV6 variants. There’s autonomous emergency braking, blind spot detection, lane keep assist, smart cruise control with stop and go and more.

The Kia EV6 GT Line Interior.

Kia EV6 rear wheel drive single motor standard equipment.

The EV6 AWD Dual Motor receives a raft of additional equipment as standard, including bigger 20-inch alloy wheels (aesthetics over range), laminated front door glass and privacy glass, an exterior body kit, exterior V2L, alcantara seat inserts, ambient lighting, a 14 speaker Meridian sound system, powered seats with heating and cooling, a powered tailgate, and 3D surround view camera.

Kia EV6 all wheel drive additional standard equipment highlighted in bold.

Kia EV6 Image Gallery (click to expand)

Kia EV6 Colours and trim choices

The Kia EV6 Air will be available in six colours, and the EV6 GT-Line will be available in five colours. The hero Moonscape matte colour exclusive to GT-Line, and is also a first for the Kia range. At this stage it appears interior colour choices are limited to…black. If you want a lighter interior, stick with Hyundai’s IONIQ 5.

Kia EV6 Australian colour options.

Battery and Technology

Like its Hyundai IONIQ 5 cousin, the EV6 is blessed with an 800 volt electrical system, meaning that a theoretical 233 kW peak charging rate can be achieved (although we’ve only ever seen this briefly in our two weeks with the IONIQ 5) replenishing 100km of range in 4 minutes, or 10-80 percent battery state of charge in 16 minutes.

An 11kW AC charger will see a 0-100 percent charge take around 7 hours and 45 minutes.

Kia EV6 fast charging curve. Image: Fastned

So how can I buy an EV6?

Errr, here’s the catch. With such limited supply due to global constraints, and the fact that Australia is just a small market, the EV6 is already sold out for 2022. 500 units have been allocated for Australia, and are already spoken for, but we understand Kia Australia is working hard to secure additional units for 2022/2023.

More information will be provided on the EV6 range in Australia after the car’s late-February media launch; we also hope to find out more about the performance eGT EV6 which should launch late in 2022.

Electric Mini makes up 10% of brand's registrations in Australia with strong global sales in 2021

The MINI Electric has been a strong seller for the brand in Australia.

There were 291 MINI Electric Hatch registrations in Australia in 2021, growing 210 percent on 2020’s results. For a brand with a global ambition to release its last fossil fuel-powered model by 2025 and go all electric by 2030, these are promising figures in a small market.

Nearly one in 10 MINIs registered in Australia are electrified, with the MINI Countryman PHEV model showing 156 percent growth in 2021, with 141 registrations.

The MINI Electric launched in Australia in 2020, and 385 MINI Electric Hatch models have been registered in total to date. The automaker is showing positive sales

The news follows strong sales figures in the German market, with in excess of 10,000 MINI Electrics registered during 2021; up 132 percent YoY. This meant that one in five MINIs registered in Germany are now fully electric.

In terms of worldwide sales, MINIs electrified range made up 18 percent of worldwide sales in 2021; around 53,243 units total. This was up 64.3 percent on 2020 figures.

BMW has confirmed that the next generation MINI Electric will be produced in China, in partnership with Great Wall Motors. It will continue to produce combustion engine models at its MINI Plant Oxford in the United Kingdom.

Undisguised prototypes of the future MINI electric have reportedly been spotted in China, with details shared by motoring journalist Greg Kable.

New MINI @MINI@BMW @BMWGroup @GWMGlobal pic.twitter.com/GFq55Rw2ai

— Greg Kable (@GregKable) December 10, 2021

BMW i4 electric sedan set for early 2022 launch priced from $99,900 MSRP

The BMW i4 M50. Images: BMW

• i4 eDrive40 priced from $99,900 MSRP, offering 250kW/430Nm from a single motor with a 590 kilometre WLTP range

• i4 M50 priced from $124,900 MSRP, offering 400kW/795Nm from two motors with xDrive
  all-wheel-drive with 510 kilometre WLTP range

• M50 model performs 0-100km/h sprint in 3.9-seconds

• BMW Operating System 8 fitted as standard

• 5 years free DC rapid charging with the Chargefox network in Australia

It wasn’t long ago that Klaus Fröhlich, Member of the Board of Management of BMW AG, Development said in an interview that the discussion around electric vehicles was “a bit irrational”. His qualified this with “Perhaps in the eastern region of China; Beijing, Shanghai, Hong Kong … they might be 100 per cent electric. But the world – Russia, Australia, USA, big portions of Europe – they will have combustion engines for a very long time.”

And yet here we are. BMW has always been famous for its sports sedans, having sold close to 5 million 3 series models since the line was introduced in the mid-1970s. The company was also an early pioneer in electrification, with the quirky i3 city car sporting a revolutionary mass-produced carbon monocoque, and making recycled plastic and hemp fibre interiors cool, long before the likes of Mazda, Hyundai and Mercedes-Benz started on the trend.

The i4 eDrive40 is a handsome liftback.

The i4 is a liftback sedan (similar to the petrol and diesel-powered 4 series) based on BMW’s Cluster Architecture (CLAR). This flexible platform was built for EVs from the ground up, maximising packaging efficiency for electric motors and drivetrain components.

The i4 eDrive40 and i4 M50 will land in Australia with adaptive M suspension as standard and M Sport brakes, M Light alloy wheels, and variable sport steering. The M50 adds electric all-wheel-drive and a second motor for greater acceleration. Speaking of which, 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) is dispatched in 3.9 seconds on the M50 variant, and 5.7 seconds on the eDrive40 model.

In terms of battery technology, the pack is comprised of four modules with 72 cells each and three 12-cell modules, for a total of 324 cells and 84 kWh (gross). BMW states 200kW DC fast charging is possible, which will be free for owners for the first 5 years when using Chargefox infrastructure. The automaker claims the car’s range can be increased by as much as 164 kilometres (102 miles) in 10 minutes at a 10 percent state of charge. While certainly rapid, it pales in comparison to Hyundai’s 800 volt IONIQ 5 which adds 100 km (62 miles) of range in four minutes when charging at 220 kW.

BMW has invested a lot of money in its electric vehicle production; one hundred percent green energy is used for both vehicle production and battery cell manufacturing, and the company has set an ambitious goal of net carbon-neutral production across all locations by the end of 2021. At this year’s annual general meeting, the BMW group announced that it will avoid the emission of over 200 million tonnes of CO2 by 2030.

Scroll down for pricing and standard equipment for the Australian market, as well as a gallery of images.

BMW releases pricing information, additional details and images of iX electric SUV

The iX xDrive50 M Sport cuts an imposing figure. Images: BMW AG

• iX range headlined by iX xDrive50 M Sport with 385 kW (530 PS), 765 Nm (564 lb-ft), 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 4.6 seconds

• iX xDrive 50 fitted with massive 111.5 kWh (105.2 kWh gross) battery while iX 40 utilises a 76.6 kWh (71 kWh gross) battery pack

• iX xDrive 50 models offer 611 km (380 mi) WLTP range, iX xDrive 40 models 414 km (257 mi) WLTP range

• New technology including all-wheel-drive system with near-actuator wheel slip limitation technology

• Price from £69,905 (UK OTR) / $84,195 (US - xDrive 50 only) / € 77,300 (Ger) / $135,900 (AU)

• European and Australian customer deliveries are expected from late 2021, North American deliveries will begin in Q1 2022

A performance-focused tech-laden SUV

BMW is on a global electric vehicle model offensive, with the iX3 recently launched in Europe and China, and the i4 sedan making its public debut last week for the first time. With the worldwide success of the BMW X-series SUVs, the Munich automaker has prioritised bringing the iX range to customers over the i4, as it looks to capture market share from the established Audi e-tron and Tesla’s Model X series, and beat the likes of Volvo and Porsche to market with a full-size electric SUV.

BMW is looking to ensure the iX xDrive40 and xDrive50 models live up to the “Ultimate Driving Machine” tagline. The iX features an aluminium spaceframe construction, with Carbon Fibre Reinforced Plastic (CFRP) components for the side frame, rain channels, roof frame, cowl panel and rear window frame. These form a lightweight, torsion-resistant ‘Carbon Cage’.

BMW also includes front and rear anti-roll bars on the iX combined with a hydraulic damping system, to optimise the vehicle’s ride between comfort and sport driving. There’s a front double-wishbone suspension for higher steering precision, and a five-link rear suspension and aluminium again used on control arms, steering forks and the like for weight savings and improve chassis response.

The performance is impressive across the range; the “base” xDrive40 model delivers 240kW (326 PS) and 630Nm (465 lb-ft), for a 0-100km/h (0-62mph) time of 6.1 seconds. WIth 385 kW (530 PS) and 765 Nm (564 lb-ft), the xDrive 50 M Sport hits the 100 km/h benchmark in 4.6 seconds.

A new generation of battery technology

BMW is supplied with battery cells to exacting specifications by CATL, Northvolt and Samsung SDI, and assembles the battery modules at its own plants. BMW claims a 20 percent energy density improvement over previous generations’ technologies, and the xDrive 40, with 77 kWh, offers a WLTP rated range of 425 km (264 mi). The monstrous 112kWh pack in the xDrive 50 M Sport claims a 630 km (391 mi) WLTP range.

The BMW iX range can also charge at up to 200 kW using a DC fast charger. BMW claims 90 miles (145 km) of range can be added in just ten minutes at 200 kW. The iX can also replenish its battery from 10-80 percent in less than 40 minutes. It’s worth pointing out that Hyundai’s Ioniq 5 has already demonstrated its market-leading charging prowess in the real world, replenishing 10-80% of range in 18 minutes when plugged into a 350 kW DC charger, and adding 62 miles (100km) of range in four minutes.

Australian Models and Pricing:

The BMW iX line-up in Australia.

UK Models and Pricing

The BMW iX line-up in the UK.

BMW i4 M50 and i4 eDrive40 electric sedan models set for November 2021 launch [updated]

BMW has revealed more details and images of its i4 range, with the i4 M50 and i4 eDrive40 the first models available for pre-order. You can find a gallery with new images from BMW below. This article will be updated with full details and specifications as soon as we can.

• i4 range headlined by i4 M50 with 400 kW (544 PS), 795 Nm (586 lb-ft), 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 3.9 seconds

• i4 eDrive 40 offers 250 kW (340 PS), 430 Nm (317 lb-ft), 0 – 100 km/h (62 mph) in 5.7 seconds

• 83.9 kWh battery pack offers 590 kilometres (367 miles) range in the WLTP cycle

• Extensive use of secondary raw materials, natural materials and recycled materials

• Northern Hemisphere deliveries to start in Autumn 2021

Performance-oriented electric sedan

BMW is placing a great deal of emphasis on the dynamic and sporty characteristics of the i4 range, and the electric sedan debuts the flexible vehicle architecture that will underpin the Bavarian automaker’s future electric line up.

The suspension is tuned for handling, with a double-joint spring strut front axle and a five-link rear axle. Lift-related dampers and rear-axle air suspension come as standard. BMW’s fifth-generation eDrive technology claims a power density of up to 2.14 kW/kg, resulting in instantaneous power delivery. The i4 M50 sprints to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 3.9 seconds, while the eDrive 40 variant makes the dash in a respectable 5.7 seconds.

There’s an 83.9 kWh lithium-ion battery, offering 590 kilometres (367 miles) of range on the WLTP cycle, and the ability to charge from 10-80% at a 200 kW peak rate in 31 minutes. The i4 offers up to 11kW on an AC 3-phase charger.

BMW claims 164 kilometres (102 miles) can be added to the i4 eDrive40 in 10 minutes, and 140 kilometres (87 miles) to the i4 M50 in the same time.

Both models come with four-piston fixed front brake calipers and single-piston floating rear calipers. All discs are ventilated.

Exterior Styling

The i4 continues the large kidney grille theme that debuted on the production 4-series models, but with a closed-in front end to aid aerodynamics. The i4 achieves a drag coefficient figure of 0.24 Cd, making it slightly less slippery than the Tesla Model 3 (0.21 Cd) and Polestar 2 (0.23 Cd).

The i4 has a lot of familiar elements about it: the GranCoupe-style roofline, the broad rear lights, and the signature Hofmeister kink. The i4 is 4,783mm long, 1,852mm wide 1,448 high, and sports a 2,856mm wheelbase. That’s pretty close to Tesla’s Model 3 and the Polestar 2, though the BMW does sit lower.

European specifications offer 17” alloy wheels on the eDrive 40 model, and 18” alloy wheels of the M50 model. These will likely be shod in low rolling-resistance rubber.

The i4 M50 sports a number of signature BMW design elements. Image: BMW

Sport meets luxury on the inside, with sustainable materials

Any current BMW owner would feel comfortable stepping into the i4. The usual sports seats and sports steering wheel are present, as are the BMW iDrive controller and angled-towards-the-drive centre console.

BMW’s Operating System 8 graces the control system, and BMW promises remote software upgrades will be available to keep improving the car’s functions. There’s a 12.3-inch instrument cluster, and a 14.9 inch control display for driver and passenger. Vernasca leather and BMW Individual leather are available, as well as an artificial Sensatec option.

BMW claims over 40 driver assistance functions are available including Active Cruise Control with automatic Speed Limit Assist, route monitoring function, and reaction to traffic lights (in Germany).

BMW says that its battery cells are manufactured using 100 percent green energy, and the company has also achieved controlled, sustainable extraction of cobalt and lithium for the batteries. Recycled and secondary raw materials are used to minimise the virgin plastics needed in the car.

The i4 is expected to launch in November 2021 to European customers. It will land in Australia in early 2022 according to BMW Australia, and can already be preordered via BMW’s website.

BMW iX electric SUV and i4 Gran Coupe to make North American public debut on June 4

BMW’s iX ‘Sports Activity Vehicle’ at its recent Chinese Debut. Images: BMW

BMW’s all-electric iX Sports Activity Vehicle i4 Gran Coupé will debut to the media at [SPACE] by BMW — a new brand experience at The Grove in Los Angeles — on Tuesday June 1. On June 4, [SPACE] by BMW will open to the public until November 30.

The iX and i4 Gran Coupe will also be available to order from 3:01 p.m. PST / 6:01 p.m. EST on June 1, with deliveries estimated to commence in early 2022.

We’ve covered both global launches previously on EV Brief; The iX SAV in xDrive50 specification produces 370kW (503 PS) and offers a 600km (373 mi) WLTP range, while the iX xDrive40 produces 240kW (326 PS) and offers a 500km (310 mi) range. The performance-oriented i4 Gran Coupe will make 390 kW (530PS) in the top-level guise, with a range up to 590km (366mi) according to BMW.

[SPACE] by BMW is the brand’s chic take on redefining the customer experience, engaging local artist Spencer Mar Guilbert to collaborate on “the interior design, drawing inspiration from both the natural world and the iconography of street art” according to BMW. The two-story space will feature vehicle displays from BMW, BMW M, BMW i, MINI and BMW Motorrad.

“The debuts of the BMW iX and i4 are only the beginning,” said Uwe Dreher, vice president of marketing, BMW of North America. “We wanted to do something special to introduce these new vehicles, which is why we’ve created a brand platform in one of the most important electric vehicle markets in the world.” Dreher continued: “But [SPACE] by BMW will go beyond just vehicle debuts and displays. We will have a full schedule of programming and events which will create opportunities to engage and connect with consumers.”

The BMW i4 Gran Coupe.

Mercedes-Benz EQA electric crossover confirmed for Australian arrival in June 2021

Mercedes-Benz expands EQ range in Australia - EQA 250 available from June

Mercedes-Benz is set to get a head start over its rivals in Australia, beating Hyundai’s IONIQ 5, Tesla’s Model Y and BMW’s iX3 to market this year. The manufacturer has confirmed that the EQA 250 will open for orders from Australian customers next month, with deliveries to commence in June.

Priced from $76,800 AUD for the EQA 250 and $84,100 for the EQA 250 Edition 1 (excluding on-road costs), both models feature an asynchronous electric motor at the front axle, with 140 kW (190 PS) or power and 375 Nm (276 lb ft) of torque.

Regarding the battery, Mercedes-Benz has a 420 volt lithium ion battery with five modules and 200 cells in a double decker design. It offers a net energy content of 66.5 kWh, with an energy consumption rating of 16.2kWh/100km. The EQA 250 offers 480 kilometres ADR range (426km/265miles WLTP), so expect around 400km in real world Australian conditions.

Mercedes-Benz Australia is offering a comprehensive standard equipment list on the EQA. The EQA 250 receives adjustable damping with DYNAMIC SELECT driving modes, 19-inch AMG 5-twin spoke AMG alloy wheels, the twin-10.25-inch MBUX infotainment system/instrument cluster, Apple Carplay/Android Auto, wireless phone charging, DAB+ digital radio, DISTRONIC active distance assist cruise control, and active assists including blind-spot monitoring, Traffic Sign Assist, lane keeping and automatic emergency braking.

The Edition 1 package is a limited volume option, and includes the above features plus 20-inch AMG multi-spoke alloy wheels in matte copper, AMG exterior trim, Neva grey leather, backlit design trim elements in the interior, silver chrome metallic finishes, AMG pedals, illuminated door sill panels, a unique vehicle key, sports multifunction steering wheel, and most importantly, “Edition 1” floormats.

We can’t wait to see the EQA 250 land in Australia. While the EQA range is still based on Daimler’s MFA2 platform architecture—we’ll have to wait for the EQS to debut the modular MEA platform—it’s size, performance, equipment, looks and price should see it compete admirably in the popular premium compact crossover market in Australia. We covered the global launch of the EQA range extensively; for more information and pictures, read our article here

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BMW teases i4 electric sedan with new images and details; BMW M Performance version to follow

BMW shows off its first all electric sports sedan - the i4 Gran Coupe with up to 590km (366mi) WLTP range

BMW has teased exterior images of the new i4 Gran Coupe EV at its annual conference in Munich, Germany overnight. The automaker is drawing out the launch, with full technical specifications and interior images to be released over the next few weeks.

BMW promises up to 590km (366mi) WLTP range, power up to 390 kW (530PS) as well as a BMW Motorsport version (eventually). We can expect the i4 Gran Coupe to compete against a range of vehicles in the competitive sports sedan class, from Tesla’s Model 3, Model S and Polestar 2 at the more affordable end, to the Porsche Taycan and Audi E-Tron GT when BMW announces an i4 Gran Coupe M Performance.

Broadly sharing most of the design details from the concept i4, the usual “toning down” has taken place, with less futuristic headlights to satisfy various legal and cost constraints, conventional side mirrors and smaller wheels.

The large “grille” remains, along with vertical front intakes, slim, broad taillights and BMW’s signature Hofmeister kink on the rear doors. We like it; though it lacks the “wow” effect of the concept i4, proportions are sound, and the design details are contemporary. One thing though; please lose the blue highlights BMW!

The BMW Concept i4 vs. the production i4:

The BMW concept i4

The BMW i4 Gran Coupe

The i4 will be built on BMW’s flexible and modular CLuster ARchitecture (CLAR) platform, on which the iX3 and iX SUVs are based. Notably, BMW will produce the i4 Gran Coupe on the same production lines as petrol and diesel models, thanks to a massive €200 million retooling of the Munich assembly plant.

Most manufacturers—including BMW—are focusing on the development of crossovers and SUVs based on their next generation electric architectures, so it’s great to see Munich also prioritising an all-electric sports saloon.

As mentioned, further technical details and imagery is expected to be launched over the next few weeks. While BMW has yet to reveal pricing and launch timing, we can expect the i4 to follow the iX SUV to market in early 2022.

Images: BMW AG

BMW announces iX xDrive40, xDrive50 ahead of Q4 2021 Australian launch

BMW has today confirmed that it’s first-ever iX model line will reach Australian shores in the fourth-quarter of 2021, in the form of the iX xDrive40 and iX xDrive50.

The BMW iX is currently undergoing its final phase of series development, and is the first model based on a new, modular and scalable toolkit which will underpin the brand’s future electric vehicles.

Full specifications are yet to be released, but BMW claims “In excess of” 370kW and 240kW developed by BMW iX xDrive50 and iX xDrive40 drive systems respectively, allowing 0-100km/h (0-62 mph) sprint times of five seconds for the iX xDrive50 and six seconds for the iX xDrive40.

The iX xDrive 50 will offer a WLTP range of more than 600km, and the xDrive40 a range of 500 km. BMW claims an energy consumption figure of less than 21kWh per 100 kilometres for both models.

While BMW hasn’t revealed full battery specifications, they have stated that the xDrive50 will have a gross energy content of “more than 100kWh” with 200kW charging, while the battery unit for the BMW iX xDrive40 has a gross energy content of “more than 70kWh” with 150kW charging.

In terms of technology, the iX range will debut BMW’s newest iteration of iDrive including BMW Operating System 8 which debuted this week.

BMW iX xDrive40 starts from £69,000 ($96,000 USD or $124,000 AUD) in the UK, so expect it to launch closer to $150,000 when it arrives in Australia later this year. It’s understood that BMW is working on an M motorsport-honed variant too. We will keep you updated as further details and pricing are released closer to launch.

Mini Cooper SE electric receives a refresh; lands in Europe March 2021, Australia in Q3 2021

MINI refreshes COOPER SE Electric hatch; subtle interior and exterior upgrades are the order of the day

• Same 135kW (184hp) motor and 32.6kWh battery

• New exterior design, with new Island Blue Metallic paint finish and optional colour gradient roof

• Adaptive LED headlights, 17” alloys and Connected Navigation package standard

• Driver Assistance Package with Active Cruise Control now an option for the Mini Cooper SE

Mini has refreshed the Cooper SE model in its line up, with a fresh face sporting a hexagonal grille and other subtle exterior upgrades in line with its petrol siblings. The most obvious change perhaps is the distinct lack of yellow highlights everywhere denoting the ‘E’ variant; perhaps customer feedback suggested the Mini Cooper SE would be a more enticing proposition if it looked exactly like the regular Mini hatch?

The Mini Cooper SE has lost its yellow mirrors and ‘E’ bading; you’d have to look hard to see this was the electric variant. Images: BMW AG

A new exterior colour and rooftop colour are available, known as Island Blue metallic and Rooftop Grey respectively. The MINI Electric Collection also includes the painted Multitone Roof. According to BMW, with the aid of a new paintwork technique, the MINI plant in Oxford has created a fascinating colour gradient from San Marino Blue through Pearly Aqua to Jet Black, extending from the windscreen frame to the rear.

Mini’s new gradient roof is impressive for its technique, but won’t be to everyone’s taste.

The electric drivetrain in the Cooper SE has not changed—it’s still sporting the 32.6kWh battery with 200-234km WLTP range, and a respectable power output of 135kW. Mini has created new equipment packages, and added the option of steering wheel heating for the first time.

The Connected Navigation package is now standard, with the Connected Navigation Plus package includes a Head-Up Display, telephony with Wireless Charging, Concierge Service and MINI Connected XL features available as an option.

Mini is offering a new Driver Assistance Package Plus package which includes Active Cruise Control, and now features a Stop & Go function for the first time. This enables the system to slow the MINI Cooper SE down to a standstill if necessary. In our opinion, this kind of active safety equipment should be standard on vehicles these days.

Pricing will be announced closer to the European launch in March 2021, and Australian launch in the second half of 2021.

The only cue at the front that this might be the silent variant

The Mini Cooper SE retains the power socket style wheel design, but with a bit less yellow for 2021.

The Mini Cooper SE retains the cute charm of the R53 Cooper, but with more presence, more vents and more grille

The Union Jack tail lamp design is a nice retro touch

Top 5 all-new electric vehicles bound for Australia in 2021

the most exciting all-electric passenger cars launching in Australia this year

Australia’s government has a topsy-turvy list of priorities when it comes to the nation’s shift to renewables and zero emissions vehicles, and while we may have to wait longer for new models than northern hemisphere countries (and longer than our New Zealand neighbours for that matter), the future of all electric passenger cars in Australia is bright. Here are some of our highlights, expected to land in 2021:

1. Hyundai Ioniq 5

   We’re excited about the IONIQ 5 for a number of reasons. Hyundai has proven it can make competent, efficient electric vehicles, and the IONIQ family should continue this trend.

   Moreover, IONIQ brings with it a unique design language dubbed ‘parametric pixel’ that is rectangular, futuristic and bold in a sea of familiar compact SUVs. Not just a pretty face, the IONIQ 5 promises an advanced 800 volt architecture, with fast charging up to 350kW, and V2X technology to power almost any device. The IONIQ 5 prototype has already been spotted in Sydney undergoing final testing, so its clear parent company Hyundai sees Australia as an important market for the new brand.

Not a whole lot is known about the IONIQ 5, but Hyundai plans to launch the car down under in 2021. Image: Hyundai Motors

2. Tesla Model Y

Tesla’s Model Y isn’t the new kid on the block anymore, but that doesn’t mean Australians won’t want it. Sporting all the same technology that underpins the Model 3—Australia’s best selling EV— the Model Y features the raised driving position and spacious cabin that makes SUVs so popular in Australia. Available overseas in rear wheel drive Standard Range Plus guise, as well as all wheel drive dual motor Long Range and Performance variants, the Model Y is expected to start from A$80,000-$90,000 for the Standard Range Plus, A$90,000-$100,000 for the Long Range and A$100,000-$110,000 for the Performance variant by the time it lands in Australia. Though there’s nothing offical from Tesla, with the Model Y production line in China now operating, we can expect Tesla’s small SUV to join the local line-up sometime in the seond half of 2021.

Tesla’s Model Y sells well overseas for good reason: it’s efficient, fast and comfortable. Image: Tesla Motors

3. BYD Han

BYD’s Han sedan is exciting for a number of reasons; firstly it’s a svelte, handsome sedan with performance and luxury to match its looks. With a 76.9kWh LFP blade battery and a range of 500+ kilometres, the Han can accelerate to 100 kilometres per hour (62 miles per hour) in 3.9 seconds. It’s got a luxurious interior too, and priced from 279,500 RMB (about AUD$55,500) in China we believe the Han could have a decent slice of the EV market share if priced at or below Tesla’s Model 3 (around AUD$70,000). Importer Nexport currently has one left hand drive Han in Australia, possibly for evaluation/compliance purposes. While no official launch timing has been revealed, Nexport’s direct-to-consumer site evdirect.com.au is planning a big announcement for Wednesday 10 February.

BYD’s Han has the potential to be a great value player in the luxury EV market. Image: BYD

4. Porsche Taycan

EV Performance, refinement and efficiency combined with Zuffenhausen’s legendary interior and exterior design? What’s not to love? Well, the eye-watering price for starters. Forget for a moment that the Taycan Turbo S Starts from $366,133; less expensive variants will eventually make their way down under. It’s significant that one of the world’s most revered sports car manufacturers should design and develop an all electric vehicle, and from overseas reports, the Taycan hasn’t lost Porsche’s handling and performance DNA. Real world range of the standard 79.3kWh battery is also greater than the official figure of 326 kilometres as we reported here. Deliveries are expected to commence in February 2021.

Australian Porsche fans can expect deliveries of the Taycan to commence in February/March 2021. Image: Porsche Cars Australia

5. BMW iX

Yes it’s another SUV on the list, but isn’t that what the market wants? Looks are subjective, but one can’t argue with the imposing face of the iX. While a big, hulking electric SUV may not be our cup of tea, it makes the list because in inner-city parts of Australia where the BMW X5, Porsche Cayenne and Mercedes-Benz GLE are king. Electrifying these vehicles will have a significant impact on emissions and perceptions around electric vehicles. While Mercedes-Benz’ EQS has been on the scene for over a year now, BMW’s iX rides on a new-from-the-ground-up advanced aluminium space frame/CRFP composite chassis designed specifically for EVs. BMW claims a WLTP range of “over 600 kilometres” and an engine output of “over 370kW”, and the iX should arrive in Australia before the end of 2021.

The BMW iX is big, aggressive and all electric. Image: BMW AG

BMW readies electric i4 performance sedan for production with final calibration drive

BMW aims to bring signature dynamics to new EV sedan

2021 is set to be a bumper year as mainstream automakers launch an electric vehicle onslaught in response to changing customer demands and governmental zero emissions mandates around the world.

The BMW i4 is set for production later in 2021, and the German automaker has released more information, photos and video from the vehicle’s final calibration drive. Expected to evolve from the striking Concept i4, it’s likely that—love it or hate it—the bold, elongated kidney grille will make it to the production model.

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The 2020 BMW Concept i4. Image: BMW USA

BMW claims the production i4 will sport 390 kW (530 hp), and will scoot to 100kmh (62mph) in just 4.0 seconds. The BMW i4 will feature an 80kWh high-voltage battery pack with 150kW fast charging, and its expected to weigh around 550kg. BMW provides a claimed range of around 600 kilometres (373 miles).

It’s expected the i4 will share many visual similarities with the upcoming 4-series GranCoupe. These photos were taken during a final prototype calibration drive, which BMW claims was used to ensure that “the spontaneous power delivery of the electric motor is combined with precisely controllable handling in every situation, fascinating cornering dynamic, optimised traction in all weather and road conditions and perfectly balanced ride comfort”.

BMW is focusing on ride and handling—typical hallmarks of cars from Munich—and the company claims that “The BMW i4 conveys the feeling of being light and agile yet also solid and authoritative,” according to project manager David Alfredo Ferrufino Camacho. He goes on to add “With its superior directional reliability and high level of cornering stability, it seems to literally attach itself to the road. All electric vehicles are capable of fast straight-line acceleration. But that’s not enough for us at BMW.”

The i4 will likely launch after the compact iX3 and full-size iX SUVs, as the third all-electric model out of five planned by 2025. The company also plans for 12 all-electric vehicles across the BMW Group, which includes, Mini and luxury brand Rolls Royce. It’s all part of a European Union mandate to ensure automakers achieve a target of 50g/km or less of CO2 across 40 per cent of their fleets by 2030.

You can view the press images, a video of the i4 going sideways and the full press release below.

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Images: BMW AG

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Press Release:

Munich. When an ideal balance is called for between dynamics and ride comfort, the BMW 3 Series and 4 Series models consistently set the benchmark within their segments in the premium market. In terms of electrically powered vehicles, the new BMW i4 is set to take on this role very soon. The first purely electrically powered 4-door Gran Coupé enriches locally emission-free mobility with sheer driving pleasure.

“For the first time, we’ve developed a BMW with sporty DNA for purely electric driving entirely from scratch,” explains project manager David Alfredo Ferrufino Camacho. “The BMW i4 offers everything BMW stands for – and it’s fully electric, too.”  

A few months prior to its world premiere, the BMW i4 is currently completing the final phase of driving dynamics testing. The focus here is on the integrated application of all drive and suspension components, ensuring that the spontaneous power delivery of the electric motor is combined with precisely controllable handling in every situation, fascinating cornering dynamics, optimised traction in all weather and road conditions and perfectly balanced ride comfort. For the purpose of this fine-tuning process, the BMW Group applies its technological expertise in the areas of drive and suspension drawn from decades of experience. This gives the new BMW i4 a mature premium character and makes for a driving experience that is unique within the competitive environment.

Excitingly calm: sprinting with the BMW i4.

With a maximum output of up to 390 kW/530 hp, the electric powertrain in the BMW i4 enables impressive acceleration manoeuvres: it reaches the 100 km/h mark in just four seconds from standstill. But even more impressive than its pure sprint capacity is the driving response it conveys. A model-specific damper technology reduces the dipping movements of the body at the moment of set-off, while the actuator-related wheel slip limitation (ARB) developed by BMW with its extremely fast and precise control guarantees optimum traction and perfect straight-line stability at all times – even on slippery road surfaces. This makes the catapult-like sprint in the new BMW i4 an experience that is both exciting and carefree, because it is not affected by drive slip or course corrections.

However, fascinating acceleration is only one aspect of the superior performance characteristics that define the BMW i4. Other distinguishing features include its spontaneous reactions to every movement – not just of the accelerator pedal but also of the steering and the brake pedal. The prerequisites for this high level of agility and precision are anchored in the underlying vehicle concept of the BMW i4. This includes the car's long wheelbase, wide track widths, model-specific camber values, large wheels, as well as the high torsional rigidity and the vehicle’s low centre of gravity and weight balance.

Effortless precision: taking the bend on the ideal line.

All these parameters were taken into account in detail in the integrated application of the drive and suspension components so as to ensure hallmark BMW sporty flair in every situation on the road. The design and tuning of the suspension and damping systems consistently ensure optimum road contact. At the same time, the virtually silent drive in combination with the sophisticated suspension technology gives the impression of an effortlessly floating vehicle even at higher speeds, entirely unaffected by bumps in the road or difficult traction conditions.

“The BMW i4 conveys the feeling of being light and agile yet also solid and authoritative,” says project manager David Alfredo Ferrufino Camacho. “With its superior directional reliability and high level of cornering stability, it seems to literally attach itself to the road. All electric vehicles are capable of fast straight-line acceleration. But that’s not enough for us at BMW.”

The BMW i4 is also effortlessly controllable – even in highly dynamic driving situations. In addition to its neutral self-steering behaviour and its powerful, precisely controllable brakes, the steering in the BMW i4 is a major contributing factor here: it responds directly and with a high degree of accuracy, offering the driver precise feedback at all times while remaining entirely independent of drive forces, even during intensive acceleration or deceleration. Lane changes at high speeds are mastered with ease, while relaxed driving over long distances is ensured by the speed-related Servotronic power steering and the fact that the vehicle is largely insusceptible to any disruption caused by road bumps.

Typical BMW: the unique balance between sporty flair and ride comfort.

The distinctive driving dynamics of the BMW i4 derive partly from the fact that its performance characteristics are not achieved at the expense of driving comfort. The purely electrically powered Gran Coupé is characterised by unrestricted suitability for day-to-day use. Fitted with a high-voltage storage system featuring the latest battery cell technology that enables a range of up to 600 kilometres (WLTP), the chassis technology of the BMW i4 is designed for long-distance comfort, too. It is based on the high-quality damper technology, supplemented with model-specific components and separately tuned. This effectively reduces body vibrations due to road unevenness and on bends. The model-specific fine-tuning of the suspension and damping contributes significantly to the harmonious driving characteristics of the BMW i4.

At the same time as the final calibration runs are being held, preparations are underway for the production start-up at BMW Group Plant Munich. (See link to related press release.)
Here, every single production step is currently undergoing validation before the BMW i4 receives its final stamp of approval for characteristic BMW delivery quality.

BMW Unveils 2021 Kidney Grille and Attached iX SUV

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Images: BMW AG

BMW’s 2021 iX is the production version of the iNext SUV concept, and debuts a new composite/aluminium spaceframe, 200kW DC fast charging, 370kW and energy consumption of less than 21kWh per 100km, but let’s face it, all anyone is going to be talking about is that grille.

The iNext concept featured a large air intake (that, strangely didn’t take in any air), headlights that resemble Japanese chef’s knives, a pillarless design and bold, clean surface that made for a futuristic interpretation of Munich’s family hauler.

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The iX has toned things down a little; a result perhaps of the realities of different markets’ crash test requirements, and simple cost demands. While this vehicle represents a new design language for BMW, ultimately I'm less wowed than when BMW brought out the truly futuristic i3 and i8.

The front end is blunt; the slivered headlights futuristic, but that grille, oh that grille. With Ford’s Mustang Mach-E and Tesla’s Model Y and X shunning pretend air intakes, BMW has gone all in, claiming the grille is an “intelligence panel”. From BMW: “Camera technology, radar functions and other sensors are integrated seamlessly into the grille behind a transparent surface.”

The overall shape isn’t really anything new; it reminds us of an X5 and an X6 at the same time. The largely untextured fenders and doors are highlighted with rather nice polygonal arches; it looks like the designers formed them from clay with a palette knife. The tapered rear window line and split C-pillar are designed to hide the vehicles bulk, but for me this feature makes the iX look more like a minivan. The rear is the most successful view in my eyes, with bold tail light graphics and plenty of wide, horizontal creases accentuating the muscularity and sportiness of the iX.

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On the subject of power, the iX features two motors, and 370kW of peak power. A torque figure is not provided by BMW, but it's safe to say the number of Newton metres is likely to be 'lots'; enough to propel the iX to 100km/h in under five seconds. BMW claims an efficiency target of 21kWh per 100 kilometres, aiming for a 600-plus kilometre WLTP range with a 100kWh battery.

The electric architecture provides for a long wheelbase, giving occupants plenty of space front and rear. The frameless doors are a nice touch, allowing passengers to see the carbon unibody construction as they enter the vehicle. Storage appears to be ample in the rear, but unfortunately, and inexplicably, there is no front storage. a gaping oversight or a technical decision?

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The iX debuts BMW’s ‘Shy Tech’ concept, where technology is hidden in the background, behind design features and away from the driver’s eye. External cameras are concealed, all autonomous and safety sensors are hidden behind that grille, and the washer fluid reservoir is hidden under the BMW badge.

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Shy tech is also aparent (or not) in the interior; the heads up display is recessed, speakers are hidden behind panels, haptic touch sensitive buttons are hidden within the wood trim and clean angles and textures abound. It’s nice to see manufacturers moving away from leather to more sustainable options like recycled fabrics and synthetic SensaTec vinyl. Seats can be optioned in a denim-like fabric, with interesting geometric patterns. Of course, leather will still be an option, but the quality and durability of synthetics is so good these days, there’s no reason to opt for the less sustainable option.

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The iX will go head to head with the likes of Audi’s E-Tron, the Mercedes-Benz EQC and Cadillac’s Lyriq when it launches in the second half of 2021. Read the full press release below:

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12th November 2020: The progressive all-electric BMW iX, which was shown to the world overnight, will launch in Australia in the second half of 2021.

The new model, which is inspired by the BMW Vision iNEXT, has been conceived from the outset for purely electric mobility and sees BMW redefine the brand’s successful Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV) concept.

With its newly developed precise and minimalist design, the BMW iX is the first representative of a trailblazing generation of vehicles poised to redefine the driving experience, the feeling of space inside and the relationship between vehicles and those on board.

The BMW iX harnesses the latest innovations in the fields of electrification, automated driving and connectivity to deliver a mobility experience that puts people at its heart more than ever before.

Its design has been developed from the inside out. The BMW iX has been created to provide quality of life and wellbeing for drivers and passengers. The clear and minimalist design of its exterior showcases a new form of mobility geared squarely to the needs of the vehicle’s occupants.

Its interior offers occupants innovative options for using the time during a journey while enjoying relaxation, safety, security and a new form of luxury in the process.

BMW Group’s new technology flagship – courtesy of BMW i, the “workshop for the future”
The design and technology of the BMW iX form an overall package that lays the foundations for what is in many respects a new kind of driving experience. 

It comprehensively embodies the character of the BMW i brand, whose mission is to transform personal mobility. BMW i plays a central role at BMW Group as a “workshop for the future” and driver of innovation across the company.

“The BMW Group is constantly striving to re-invent itself,” said Oliver Zipse, Chairman of the Board of Management of BMW AG. “That is a central element of our corporate strategy. The BMW iX expresses this approach in an extremely concentrated form.”

 The BMW iX will go into production at BMW Plant Dingolfing from the second half of 2021 as the BMW Group’s new technology flagship and will launch in Australia later in the second half of 2021.

It brings together the company’s latest developments in the strategic innovation fields of design, automated driving, connectivity, electrification and services. Added to which, the vehicle concept and design of the BMW iX are rooted in an all-embracing approach to sustainability.

This is reflected in areas of the vehicle such as its optimised aerodynamics, intelligent lightweight design and extensive use of natural and recycled materials, which help to create a cutting-edge sense of luxury and comprehensive feeling of wellbeing on board.

Fifth-generation BMW eDrive technology delivers outstanding efficiency and long range

The fifth generation of BMW eDrive technology – which encompasses the two electric motors, the power electronics, the charging technology and the high-voltage battery – guarantees exceptional efficiency.

 The power unit developed by the BMW Group has been manufactured sustainably without the use of critical raw materials known as rare earths and will, by the most recent calculations, develop maximum output of more than 370kW. That will be enough to power the BMW iX from 0 to 100km/h in less than 5.0 seconds.

At the same time, the vehicle’s clear aim is to post an exceptionally low combined electric power consumption figure for its segment of less than 21kWh per 100 kilometres in the WLTP test cycle. A gross energy content of more than 100kWh should enable the latest-generation high-voltage battery to record a range of more than 600 kilometres in the WLTP cycle (All figures relating to performance, energy consumption and range are predicted values based on the car’s current stage of development).

DC fast charging: more than 120 kilometres of extra range in 10 minutes

The new charging technology of the BMW iX enables DC fast charging at up to 200kW. In this way, the battery can be charged from 10 to 80 per cent of its full capacity in less than 40 minutes. Added to which, within ten minutes enough energy can be fed into the battery to increase the vehicle’s range by more than 120 kilometres. It takes less than 11 hours to charge the high-voltage battery from 0 to 100 per cent at 11kW from a BMW i Wallbox.

The batteries fitted to the BMW iX are designed as part of a long-term resource cycle and enable an exceptionally high recycling rate. The power used to produce the battery cells and the high-voltage battery come exclusively from renewable sources. 

New technology toolkit underpins further advances towards automated driving

The new technology toolkit making its debut in the BMW iX also provides the platform for significant progress in the areas of automated driving and digital services. For example, the level of computing power has been developed to process 20 times the data volume of previous models. As a result, around double the amount of data from vehicle sensors can be processed than was previously possible.

“We are setting new industry standards with the technology in the BMW iX,” said Frank Weber, Member of the Board of Management of BMW AG, Development.

“The iX has more computing power for data processing and more powerful sensor technology than the newest vehicles in our current line-up, is 5G-capable, will be given new and improved automated driving and parking functions and uses the high-performing fifth generation of our electric drive system.”

Fresh design for a new driving experience

The BMW iX is leading the way for a future generation of vehicles with which the company is redefining sustainability, driving pleasure and what it means to be premium. This trailblazing character is clearly expressed in the new model’s design. It provides the basis for a new kind of driving experience in which familiarity, relaxation and self-determination are the dominant themes.

The exterior of the BMW iX represents a distinctive re-imagining of the powerful proportions of a large BMW SAV. The BMW iX is comparable with the BMW X5 in length and width and is almost the same height as the BMW X6 on account of its flowing roofline. The size of its wheels, meanwhile, brings to mind the BMW X7 flagship.

The minimalist use of character lines and generously shaped surfaces conjure an aura of supreme assurance. The crisp lines, clear structure and almost rectangular contours around the wheel arches contribute to an imposing body design. And the reduced design language steers the eye onto precisely constructed details which accentuate the sophisticated character, brand identity and optimised aerodynamics of the BMW iX.

Front end: expressive, vertical kidney grille serves as an intelligence panel 

At the centre of the front end stands the prominent, vertically emphasised kidney grille. Since the electric drive system of the BMW iX requires only a small amount of cooling air, the kidney grille is completely blanked off. Its role has duly turned digital and here it functions as an intelligence panel. Camera technology, radar functions and other sensors are integrated seamlessly into the grille behind a transparent surface. 

Developed and produced at the BMW Group’s LuTZ lightweight design and technology centre in Landshut, the kidney grille for the BMW iX presents a technologically lavish advertisement for intelligent mobility. The grille has reinvented itself as an innovative and multifunctional high-tech interface for the advanced driver assistance systems with which the BMW iX paves the way for automated driving.

The kidney grille has an additional protective polyurethane layer that reduces susceptibility to minor damage such as stone chips. Should it sustain minor scratches or chips, it can heal itself within 24 hours at room temperature or five minutes of exposure to hot air.

Clearly designed surfaces, discreetly integrated technology 

The exterior design highlights of the BMW iX also include the slimmest headlight units ever to feature on a series-produced model from BMW, the flush-fitted door openers (operated at the press of a button), the frameless side windows, the tailgate – which has no separation joints and extends across the whole of the rear – and the extremely slim rear lights.

The BMW kidney grille is not the only example of how the principle of ‘Shy Tech’ has been integrated into the design of the BMW iX; an array of other cameras and sensors are likewise positioned discreetly, the door openers are flush, the filler neck for the windscreen washer fluid is concealed under the BMW logo on the bonnet and the rear-view camera has been integrated into the BMW logo on the tailgate. 

The technology stays in the background and only becomes apparent as and when the relevant functions are called into action.

“The BMW iX shows how we can give new technologies a very modern and emotionally engaging design,” said Adrian van Hooydonk, Senior Vice President BMW Group Design. 

“The car is technologically highly complex, but it feels very clear and uncomplicated.
The BMW iX offers a mobile living space in which people will feel at ease and the car’s intelligence is always available without becoming obtrusive.” 

Interior design: people at centre stage

A high level of spaciousness, a mixture of high-quality materials, newly developed seats with integral head restraints and an exceptionally large panoramic glass roof immerse all five seats of the BMW iX cabin in a luxurious, lounge-like ambience.

The all-new architecture of the BMW iX cabin underpins a perfectly clear and straightforward functionality that revolves entirely around the needs and emotions of the driver and their fellow occupants. 

The drive concept means there is no centre tunnel, adding to the open, airy feel while also allowing extra legroom in the front and rear, sufficient space for storage facilities, and a centre console crafted to look like a high-quality piece of furniture. The minimalistic design language and clearly structured surfaces shine an even brighter spotlight on the feeling of spaciousness inside the car.

The displays and controls are all stripped down to the essentials, further reinforcing the impression of an uncluttered cabin offering a place of relaxation.

The technology of the BMW iX is used intelligently and only becomes visible when it is needed. This makes it intuitive to use rather than seeming overly complex. The interior design conveys a sense of safety and familiarity and engenders a new type of bond between occupants and vehicle.

The Shy Tech approach for the interior can be seen in a number of features, including speakers integrated out of sight, intricately styled air vents, heated surfaces and the discreet recessing of the BMW Head-Up Display’s projector into the instrument panel so it is almost invisible. The hexagonally shaped steering wheel, a rocker switch for gear selection and the BMW Curved Display – which forms part of the next-generation BMW Operating System – clearly advertise the futuristic form of driving pleasure on offer. 

Intelligent lightweight design and optimised aerodynamics increase range

The energy and range of the BMW iX benefit from innovative solutions in the areas of lightweight design and aerodynamics. Its body structure, featuring an aluminium spaceframe and innovative Carbon Cage, can claim extremely high torsional stiffness, which in turn enhances agility and maximises occupant protection, while minimising weight.

The intelligent material mix, with a variety of materials employed exactly where their specific properties can be utilised to best effect, is unique in this segment. Combined with superb aerodynamics, the intelligent material mix helps to endow the iX with remarkably composed, relaxed driving characteristics together with instant, precise response to every movement of the accelerator and turn of the steering wheel.

Fully capitalising on the benefits provided by the all-electric drive system and meticulously implementing proven measures from the past in the front end of the vehicle, the underbody section, the wheels and the rear end gives the BMW iX optimised aerodynamics which have a positive effect on both the performance and range of the purely electrically powered SAV.

It's a BMW X3...but Electrified: BMW Introduces new iX3

Image: BMW AG

For those who want to proudly show off their green SUV purchase in the school carpark, there’s the futuristic Jaguar iPace or Tesla Model X. For anyone else with a penchant for the traditional SUV box design, meet BMW’s new iX3. The vehicle adopts a modified version of the X3 architecture, and adds a lithium-ion battery comprised of prismatic cells. With a 74kWh net battery capacity, BMW says the iX3 is good for 460km (WLTP).

The battery weighs 518kg, contributing to a total vehicle weight of 2,185kg. That’s porky for a medium size SUV, but comparably, it’s 300kg less than the Mercedes-Benz EQC or 52kg heavier than Jaguar’s iPace.

Efficiency is rated at 18.5-19.5 kWh/km (WLTP), which compares favourably to Mercedes’ electric SUV at 26-28kWh/km, Jaguar’s iPace at 31-33 kWh/km, and slightly behind Tesla’s Model Y at 17.5 kWh/km.

BMW’s fifth generation electric drive unit incorporates motor, electronics and transmission into a single unit, reducing the footprint and imroving efficency over the unit fitted to the company’s i3 city car.

The iX3 features 150kW fast charging, a power output of 215kW with 400Nm of torque, a 4-mode regenerative braking system, and a rear-biased weight distribution, leadinging to familiar BMW handling characteristics.

The iX3 starts from £61,900 in the UK for the Premiere Edition (before Government rebate), and is expected to go on sale in Europe in time for summer 2021, while Australians are likely to wait until late 2020 to see it on our shores. Full press release below, and a link to CarExpert’s review can be found here:

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The First Ever BMW iX3

Fully electric mobility celebrates its premiere in a BMW X model – the new BMW iX3 (fuel consumption combined in the NEDC test cycle: 0.0 l/100 km; electric power consumption combined: 17.8 – 17.5 kWh/100 km; CO2 emissions combined: 0 g/km; fuel consumption combined in the WLTP test cycle: 0.0 l/100 km; electric power consumption combined: 19.5 – 18.5 kWh/100 km; CO2 emissions combined: 0 g/km). Locally emission-free driving pleasure complements the sporting ability for which BMW is renowned and the comfort, multi‑faceted functionality and spaciousness of the successful BMW X3. Latest stage in the ongoing rollout of the BMW Group’s electrification strategy; technological expertise amassed in the development of BMW I cars utilised for the first time in a purely electrically powered model from the BMW core brand.

• New BMW iX3 will be the brand’s first model to also be produced for export at the Shenyang manufacturing facility in China. Market launch will begin in China later in 2020.
  
  

• Strategic “Power of Choice” approach covers broad spread of customer requirements and statutory regulations around the world: BMW X3 is the first model to be available with a petrol or diesel engine, plug-in hybrid drive system or all-electric drive system.
  
  

• New BMW iX3 blazes a trail for fifth-generation BMW eDrive technology. Major progress made in terms of power density, operating range, weight, installation space requirement and flexibility. Power density of the electric drive system increased by 30 per cent over the BMW Group’s existing fully electric vehicles; gravimetric energy density of the high-voltage battery at cell level up by 20 per cent. Latest versions of the electric motor, power electronics, charging technology and high-voltage battery (all developed in-house) will also be deployed in the BMW iNEXT and BMW i4 from 2021.
  
  

• Efficiency boosted significantly compared with the BMW i3 by highly integrated drive system technology. Electric motor, power electronics and transmission arranged in a central housing for the first time. Fifth-generation BMW eDrive high-voltage battery with the latest battery cell technology and gross energy content of 80 kWh enables operating range of up to 460 kilometres [285 miles] in the statutory new WLTP test cycle (up to 520 kilometres [323 miles] in the NEDC test cycle). BMW Group monitors compliance with environmental and social standards as part of its procurement process for the lithium and cobalt used in battery cells.
  
  

• Newly designed fifth-generation BMW eDrive electric motor produces maximum output of 210 kW/286 hp and peak torque of 400 Nm (295 lb-ft). Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h [62 mph] in 6.8 seconds (for purposes of comparison – BMW X3 30i: 6.4 seconds), top speed (electronically limited): 180 km/h [112 mph]. The design principle of a current-excited synchronous motor enables optimised power development and allows engineers to avoid the use of rare earths.
  
  

• Scope for varying degrees of recuperation enables choice between pronounced one-pedal feeling with extensive recuperation of braking and coasting energy in driving position B and adaptive recuperation including coasting function in driving position D. Recuperation level can be adjusted through three stages. Adaptive recuperation enhances driving comfort and efficiency by adjusting Brake Energy Regeneration and the coasting function to the driving situation at hand.
  
  

• Power transfer to the rear wheels delivers a classical BMW driving experience. Unrivalled combination of low electric power consumption and high charging capacity enables long-distance journeys at high average speeds. Adaptive suspension (fitted as standard) optimises sporting responses and comfort.
  
  

• BMW IconicSounds Electric. Newly developed soundscape for electrically powered BMW models makes its debut in the BMW iX3 and adds extra emotional depth to the driving experience. Powerful drive sound available in cars with the equipment line “Impressive”. Unmistakable composition when starting and deactivating the electric drive system developed in collaboration with Hans Zimmer.
  
  

• Bespoke charging products and services: BMW Charging Card provides simple and convenient access to currently more than 450,000 public charging points worldwide ; new Flexible Fast Charger (allowing use of different socket types) and high-output Wallboxes now available as options. Individual packages offer the optimum charging solution for every customer need.
  
  

• New digital services from BMW Connected Charging in the car and via the app promote user-friendly electric mobility and enhance navigation planning, including recommendations for charging stops. Navigation system factors mid-journey breaks to charge the high-voltage battery (includes detailed information on individual charging points) into route planning and calculation of arrival times.
  
  

• Optimised energy storage concept now enables vehicle charging capacity of up to 150 kW at DC fast-charging stations; Recharging from 0 to 80 per cent of the high-voltage battery’s capacity takes 34 minutes, 10-minute charge adds 100 kilometres [62 miles] of range (WLTP). BMW iX3 customers enjoy particularly favourable tariffs at IONITY fast-charging stations with a consumption dependent component of e.g. €0.29 per kWh for Germany)
  
  

• Characteristic proportions of a BMW X model combine with model-specific design features. Innovative BMW aerodynamic wheels: 19-inch light-alloy items with new, drag-reducing design fitted as standard.
  
  

• Premium interior ambience with model-specific accents. User-friendly, variable-usage cabin with high level of comfort for five people over everyday journeys and longer distances; load capacity can be expanded from 510 litres to as much as 1,560 litres.
  
  

• Wide-reaching standard specification (“Inspiring”) includes metallic paintwork, LED headlights, three-zone automatic climate control with pre‑heating and pre-conditioning, automatic tailgate operation, panoramic glass sunroof, Driving Assistant Professional and ambient lighting. Optional equipment line “Impressive” also brings 20-inch light-alloy wheels, acoustic glazing, sport seats, Vernasca leather trim, BMW Head-Up Display, Parking Assistant Plus and Harman Kardon Surround Sound.

• BMW Live Cockpit Professional with BMW Maps cloud-based navigation system and BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant as standard. Smartphone integration with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto preparation, Remote Software Upgrade and digital services from BMW Connected Charging also standard).
  
  

• Outstanding environmental credentials thanks to commitment to sustainability throughout the value chain. CO2 impact of the BMW iX3 over its entire lifecycle is significantly less than a BMW X3 xDrive20d; impact reduced by 30 per cent when using electricity from the European energy mix for charging and by around 60 per cent when using exclusively green energy.