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Production of BMW iX is slated to begin in November 2021, and the model is expected to reach Singapore the following month.
The all-electric iX is the Munich carmaker’s technology flagship. It supposedly offers the latest performance, connectivity and automated driving features.
The BMW iX will be available in xDrive40 and xDrive50 variants, with the latter offering a WLTP range of up to 630km. A range-topping iX M60 model will arrive at a later date.
Eco-conscious production
The BMW iX is built on a new, modular and scalable toolkit on which future models are to also be built.
Development of the iX was based on a sustainable approach, involving compliance with strict environmental and social standards in extracting raw materials and the use of electricity. A high proportion of recycled materials were also utilised.
These materials include secondary aluminium, recycled plastics and Forest Stewardship Council (FSC)-certified wood. The materials used to make the floor coverings and mats also included recovered fishing nets.
Rare earth minerals for the batteries, such as cobalt and lithium, were acquired from controlled sources. The electric motors themselves do not contain any rare earth minerals.
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BMW iX: New-generation SAV
The iX is what BMW calls an SAV or Sports Activity Vehicle. Its length and width are similar to the X5’s, while its height is almost the same as the X6. Its wheelbase is 3000mm long.
The iX has a more minimalist design with fewer character lines compared to other BMW models, but uses generously shaped surfaces to give it a more imposing appearance. But despite its size, the iX has a drag coefficient of 0.25.
The BMW iX is built on an aluminium spaceframe with a Carbon Cage. Up front, the trademark kidney grille is blanked-off. Its role is now that of a digital panel, housing camera technology, radar and other sensors.
The grille is part of what BMW refers to as “shy tech” or technology that is discreetly integrated with the car. Other examples of this include the retracting door handles and the filler neck for the windscreen washer fluid beneath the BMW badge in front.
More futuristic interior
The shy tech approach is also featured in the cabin. The speakers are placed out of sight, while the number of physical buttons and switches have been reduced by 50 per cent. Even the head-up display projector has been recessed into the instrument panel to keep it “hidden”.
Buyers will be given a choice of three interior trims – Atelier, Loft and Suite – to choose from. Each trim brings specific materials and colour schemes to areas such as the seats, door panels and centre console.
The BMW iX is also the first model in the group to feature a hexagonal steering wheel and the Curved Display, a one-piece screen that brings together the 12.3-inch instrument panel and 14.9-inch infotainment system.
The Curved Display is powered by BMW Operating System 8. Said OS is claimed to bring better graphics and completely customisable display options that provide the driver “with precise information tailored to the situation at hand.”
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Accessing the infotainment can also be done with the new Controller, which has a glass-effect surface and white backlit buttons.
Instead of physical buttons, a control surface with active haptic input subdivided by feeler bars is used to select the iDrive menus and other functions.
Meanwhile, a rocker switch takes the place of the traditional gear selector lever.
A 12-speaker audio system is fitted as standard.
Buyers can opt for an 18-speaker Harman Kardon system, or the top-spec, 30-speaker Bowers & Wilkins Diamond Surround Sound System.
Speaking of sound, the BMW iX’s driving soundtrack was created in collaboration with Hans Zimmer.
New-generation eDrive
The BMW iX is equipped with the fifth-generation eDrive system. Both the xDrive40 and xDrive50 models have two motors each – one on each axle.
Each motor or drive unit is an integrated package consisting of the motor, power electronics and transmission. This creates a power density that is 40 per cent greater than earlier electric drive systems.
It also reduces the space required for its installation.
The high-voltage battery’s energy density is 40 per cent greater compared to the 2013 BMW i3. Net energy content for the iX xDrive40 and xDrive50 models are 71kWh and 105.2kWh respectively.
The iX xDrive40 has a maximum range of 425km, while the iX xDrive50 can manage up to 630km.
BMW says that the iX’s power delivery will be “lightning fast but also remarkably consistent.” The 322hp iX xDrive40 does the century sprint in 6.1 seconds, while the 516hp iX xDrive50 does it in 4.6 seconds.
An even more powerful M60 variant, which will have over 600hp, will join the BMW iX range at a later date.
Specifications
BMW iX xDrive40 (A)
Motor: Front and rear electrically excited synchronous
Max power: 322hp (326PS, 240kW)
Max torque: 630Nm
Battery capacity: 76.6kWh gross, 71kWh net
Power to weight: 136.2hp per tonne
Gearbox: Single-speed automatic
Zero to 100km/h: 6.1 seconds
Top speed: 200km/h (governed)
Consumption: 19.4-22.5kWh (WLTP combined)
Max range: 425km
Price incl. COE: To be announced
AGENT Performance Motors
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BMW iX xDrive50 (A)
Motor: Front and rear electrically excited synchronous
Max power: 516hp (523PS, 385kW)
Max torque: 765Nm
Battery capacity: 111.5kWh gross, 105.2kWh net
Power to weight: 205.6hp per tonne
Gearbox: Single-speed automatic
Zero to 100km/h: 4.6 seconds
Top speed: 200km/h (governed)
Consumption: 19.8-23kWh/100km (WLTP combined)
Max range: 630km
Price incl. COE: To be announced
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This article was first published in Torque.
CarsBMWelectric cars
