BMW iX.
BMW is redefining its Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV) concept with the new iX.
Developed as the carmaker’s technological flagship, the BMW iX harnesses the latest innovations in the fields of electrification, automated driving and connectivity.
EFFICIENCY AND RANGE
The BMW iX, which is about the size of an X5, uses the brand’s fifth-generation eDrive technology. Two electric motors develop more than 496bhp, enough to power the BMW iX from zero to 100km/h in under five seconds.
More impressive is the fact that the car will deliver a power consumption rate of 21kWh per 100km on the World Harmonised Light vehicle Testing Procedure cycle.
A gross energy content of more than 100kWh should enable the latest-generation high-voltage battery to record a range of over 600km.
BMW iX: CHARGING TIMES
The BMW iX can be quick-charged from DC chargers that deliver up to 200kW. At this level, the battery can be charged from 10% to 80% in 40 minutes. A full recharge from an 11kW wallbox, on the other hand, will take 11 hours.
Expect to see the hexagonal steering wheel and curved screen in future BMW products.
A new technology toolkit is also said to facilitate improved automated driving and parking functions. The level of computing power offered by the BMW iX can supposedly process 20 times the data volume of previous models.
SURFACED PANELS, EXPRESSIVE GRILLES
The vertical grille of the BMW iX has been blanked off, and instead houses the car’s camera and radar functions. The headlights are the slimmest ones ever seen on a series-produced model from BMW.
Out-of-sight speakers are part of new ‘she tech’ design ethos.
Elsewhere, the BMW iX follows a new design principle described as “shy tech”.
This translates into a discreet positioning of its array of cameras and sensors, flush door handles, as well as a rear-view camera that has been integrated into the BMW logo on the tailgate.
HUMAN-CENTRIC APPROACH
In the cabin are newly developed seats, which pair with an exceptionally large panoramic glass roof to give passengers a luxurious, lounge-like ambience.
The lack of a centre tunnel also adds to a more open, airy feel and extra legroom in the front and rear. This also means sufficient space for storage facilities.
The centre console itself is crafted to look like a high-quality piece of furniture.
Gear selection is done via rocker switch in this SAV. The knob is also touch-enabled.
An uncluttered cabin emphasises the fact that the cabin is a place of relaxation, while the available technology will only become visible when needed, aiding intuitiveness.
The shy tech approach is also mirrored in the interior via speakers that are integrated out of sight, intricately styled air vents and heated surfaces.
Even the BMW Head-Up Display projector is discreetly recessed into the instrument panel so it is almost invisible.
Also new are a hexagonally shaped steering wheel, a rocker switch for gear selection, and the BMW Curved Display – components which will form part of the next-generation BMW Operating System.
Can’t wait for the BMW iX? Check out our review of the BMW X3 xDrive30e
But if you must go fully electric now, why not take a look at the BMW i3?
