BMW presented the first model of the Neue Klasse family—the next-generation BMW iX3. Spearheading BMW’s all-electric mobility push, it advances the brand’s design, electrification, driving dynamics, and digitalization.
The term Neue Klasse, translating to, “New Class,” evokes another time in history when BMW reinvented itself – the beginning of the 1960s, with the launch of the 1500 model. As BMW achieved with the 1500, the iX3 features a range of innovations and new features that have been years in development. Watch our walk around with the Vision Neue Klasse Concept.
Powering the iX3 50 xDrive is BMW’s latest sixth-generation eDrive all-electric powertrain. The dual motor configuration offers xDrive all-wheel drive as well as 469 horsepower (345 kW) and 645 Nm of torque. It sprints from 0 to 100 km/h in just 4.9 seconds and its top speed is pegged at 210 km/h. Its high-voltage battery—which features cylindrical cells and 800-volt technology—has a usable energy content of 108 kWh, enabling driving range of up to 805km (WLTP).
Electric drive system for the Neue Klasse makes significant advances over the previous generation with energy losses reduced by 40 percent, weight by 10 percent, and manufacturing costs by 20 percent.
The advances also mean a maximum charging rate of up to 400 kW enabling drivers to add more than 350 kilometers of range in just 10 minutes. The high-voltage battery can charge from 10 to 80 percent capacity in 21 minutes. And thanks to its intelligent switching matrix, the new BMW iX3 can also be charged from 400V DC stations.
Developed ground up for pure electric propulsions, the iX3 exudes modern lightness with generous levels of on-board space and extensive interior variability, including additional stowage space under the hood. More importantly, it will set the tone for BMW’s design moving forward.
Measuring 4,782 mm in length, 1,895 mm in width, and 1,635 mm in height, the upright front end features the new face for BMW’s X models. It receives a new interpretation of the BMW light signature thanks to the headlights and vertically arranged LED units. The vertical BMW kidneys, referencing the Neue Klasse models from the 1960s, is at the center of the front end. Light is used in place of chrome and provides distinctive accents in daylight and darkness. Dynamic lighting effects for the headlights, horizontal light surfaces, and BMW kidneys with Iconic Glow showcase unmistakable BMW design icons.
Monolithic surfaces and a small number of precise lines create an eye-catching silhouette. Flush elements such as the door handles and glass as well as a compact and slim glasshouse optimizes aerodynamics, reducing it to just 0.24 co-efficient of drag. Wheel sizes range from 20 to 22 inches. The rear end also has a powerful and athletic look. Rear lights extending far into the center of the rear end represent a horizontal interpretation of the familiar BMW L shape.
Inside, the iX3 retains the typical driver-focused layout. The horizontally configured cockpit creates a wrap-around effect that envelops the passengers.
At the center is BMW Panoramic iDrive—a new control and operation system that supplies the driver with the right information at the right time and at the right place. Displays, geometry and the light and sound design merge to create a holistic experience.
Running on the all-new BMW Operating System X, it balances digital and physical elements with a combination of analog and digital controls featuring switches, buttons, touch, and voice command.
There are haptic controls, including for the wipers, turn signal indicators, exterior mirrors, volume control, gear selector and defrost function. Other functions are optimized for use by touch and voice command or via the multifunction steering wheel.
The BMW Panoramic Vision projects information from A-pillar to A-pillar (43.3 inches/110 cm) on a nano-coated black printed surface in the lower section of the windscreen and across its full width. The most important driving information is projected directly into the driver's line of sight, above the steering wheel. The driver can personalize content in the central and left-hand areas of the BMW Panoramic Vision via the Central Display. The way the BMW Panoramic Vision is integrated creates a 3D effect for the driver and passengers.
The BMW 3D Head-Up Display now shows integrated navigation and automated driving displays with three-dimensional image depth directly in the driver’s field of vision above the BMW Panoramic Vision Display.
The Central Display with matrix backlight technology (17.9 inches, 3,340 x 1,440 pixels) in free-cut design is angled at 17.5 degrees towards the driver and located in an ergonomically ideal position next to the steering wheel on the instrument panel. The Central Display’s home screen permanently shows individually configurable content. Above it on the driver’s side, vertically arranged widgets are displayed for particularly frequently used functions. The user can switch between these by swiping.
All menu structures in BMW Operating System X have been fundamentally improved to allow functions to be located quickly and enable intuitive operation. All icons shown on the Central Display can be selected directly (for example, the symbol for the low-beam headlights takes the user to the light settings). The new multifunction steering wheel serves as the primary physical control point. Its button panels, designed using the shy-tech approach, help the driver and vehicle to work together collaboratively. Buttons are only illuminated if a function is available or active.
The relief-like surface of the control panels and active haptic feedback enable intuitive operation without the driver needing to take their eyes off the road.
The generous 2,897 mm wheelbase gives the iX3 520 liters of cargo space, expandable to 1,750 liters with the rear seats folded. A 58 liter “frunk” makes for additional storage.
Running the show on the iX3 are four “superbrains” high-performance computers that cover driving dynamics, automated driving, infotainment, and basic and comfort-enhancing functions. One of them, “Heart of Joy,” is the one solely responsible for drivetrain, brakes, energy recuperation, and steering subfunctions.
This allows the iX3 to offer a BMW-typical driving feeling whatever the situation and speed. Every movement of the accelerator, brake pedal, and steering is executed directly and with assurance and precision. Moreover, an AI-based approach optimizes collaborative human-vehicle interaction. This allows the system to detect and carry out what the driver requires more precisely. For example, the automatic cruise control system has a provision to be deactivated with varying stages of braking pressure, beyond the initial application of the pedal.
Production of the new BMW iX3 will commence at the new BMW Group Plant Debrecen in Hungary later this year.
Damn that looks good. Too bad it's not offered with an ice though
ReplyDeleteThe empire strike back
ReplyDelete4 kidneys? Is BMW serious?
ReplyDeleteBMW: Yes, ALL the kidneys. Past, present, and future kidneys baby! 😎
DeleteFront grille looks so different as compared to the X3.
ReplyDelete