EV Brief 6/6/21 EV Brief 6/6/21

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:

UK Models and Pricing

EV Brief 6/2/21 EV Brief 6/2/21

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.

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

20210409-P90422899_highRes_bmw-i4-interieur (1).jpg

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.

EV Brief 5/18/21 EV Brief 5/18/21

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

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 in a media event. On June 4, [SPACE] by BMW will open to the public until November 30.

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.”

EV Brief 3/17/21 EV Brief 3/17/21

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 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.

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.

EV Brief 1/23/21 EV Brief 1/23/21

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

EV Brief 11/13/20 EV Brief 11/13/20

BMW Unveils 2021 Kidney Grille and Attached iX SUV

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.

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.

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?

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.

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.

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:

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.