With its World debut at Auto China 2018, the BMW Concept iX3 offers a look ahead to the Bavarese group’s electrification strategy. The first model from the BMW brand to be driven purely by electric power will be a fully-fledged Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV) – and without compromises when it comes to functionality and comfort.
Among the innovations showcased in the BMW Concept iX3 is the fifth generation of BMW eDrive technology. A key benefit of this electric drive technology of the future is the grouping together of the electric motor, transmission and power electronics within a new, separate electric drive component. Plus, the fifth-generation electric drive system also includes new and more powerful batteries.
Driven purely by electric power, the new technology configuration of the BMW Concept iX3 offers advances in operating range, weight, packaging space, flexibility and most importantly, performance characteristics. The driving pleasure is ensured with a maximum output of over 270 hp and a range of 249 miles. Furthermore, its optimized charging capacity allows the batteries to be charged in 30 minutes from stations that generate up to 150 kW.
The presentation of the BMW Concept iX3 also highlights the design differentiation between the group’s brands, as well its electrification. The brand emblem and closed double kidney, which helps reduce air resistance, exemplifies this. Referencing the BMW i Vision Dynamics, these elements are accentuated with blue, which continues along the side skirts and on the rear diffuser. These styling cues provide a striking contrast against the Moonstone Silver matt exterior paint finish. The concept study is also fitted with light-alloy wheels in an aerodynamically optimized design.
