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BMW iX3 - Copyright BMW

BMW iX3 - First all-electric X model

BMW is expanding its range of vehicles with electrified drive to include the first electric X model. It is the entry into the all-electric SUV models. The motorization of the BMW X3 is now broadly based, from gasoline and diesel engines to plug-in hybrids and all-electric drives. Production takes place at the Chinese production site in Shenyang of the BMW Brilliance Automotive joint venture and is also produced there for global export.

Fifth generation BMW eDrive technology

The fifth generation of BMW eDrive technology is introduced with the new iX3. According to BMW, the latest components of the electric motor, power electronics, charging technology and high-voltage battery should have a positive effect on power consumption and range. The new components will also be used in the new iNEXT and i2021 models from 4. For the first time, the electric motor, transmission and power electronics are arranged in a common housing. The electric motor of the new BMW iX3 works on the principle of an energized synchronous machine without the use of magnets. According to the manufacturer, this construction makes it possible to completely do without raw materials that belong to the so-called rare earths.

According to BMNW, the motor efficiency is now up to 93% with the new iX3. The X3 is driven on the rear axle. The new drive unit generates a maximum output of 210 kW / 286 hp and a maximum torque of 400 Nm, which, unlike conventional electric motors, does not drop as much, even at high speeds. The BMW iX3 accelerates to 6,8 km / h in 100 seconds. The maximum speed is sealed off at 180 km / h. The battery has a gross energy content of 80 kWh, of which 74 kWh are used and the range is specified with up to 460 kilometers in the WLTP test cycle and up to 520 kilometers in the NEDC test cycle.

BMW iX3 - Copyright BMW
BMW iX3 - Copyright BMW

Three-phase charging with the iX3

One- and three-phase charging is possible with an output of up to 11 kW with AC connections. When connected to a direct current fast charging station, charging capacities of up to 150 kW can be achieved. This means that the high-voltage battery in the new BMW iX3 can be charged from zero to 34 percent of its total capacity within 80 minutes. Recuperation has also been optimized for effective energy generation. As an alternative to adaptive recuperation, the driver in gear D also has the option of setting high, medium or low braking energy recovery. In addition, he can use the selector lever on the center console to activate gear B, in which the one-pedal feeling that is characteristic of electric vehicles from the BMW Group is generated with a particularly high level of recuperation.

With its range, the iX3 is also interesting for business trips and vacation trips. The variability corresponds to the space available on the level of the conventionally powered versions of the BMW X3. By folding down the rear seat backrest, which can be divided in a ratio of 40: 20: 40, the luggage compartment volume can be expanded from 510 to up to 1 liters as required.

BMW iX3 - Copyright BMW
BMW iX3 - Copyright BMW

Two equipment variants to start with

The basic "Inspiring" equipment comprises a multitude of details that are intended to increase comfort, safety and driving pleasure. Metallic paintwork and 19-inch aerodynamic wheels, LED headlights, a panoramic glass roof and automatic tailgate actuation are just as much a part of it as the Driving Assistant Professional including cruise control with stop & go function, steering and lane guidance assistant as well as lane change and lane departure warning , a Park Distance Control with sensors at the front and rear, a tire pressure display and an alarm system.

The expanded "Impressive" equipment package includes 20-inch light alloy wheels in the new aerodynamically optimized design and adaptive LED headlights. In addition, the equipment is expanded to include acoustic glazing for the driver and front passenger side windows, comfort access, Vernasca leather upholstery and sports seats including lumbar support for the driver and front passenger.

Conclusion

With the iX3, BMW is setting its own accent in the field of electric SUVs. After the first impressions, the model can be seen as a serious alternative to the fossil fuel drives. It will be interesting to see whether the demand for the all-electric version will develop just as rapidly as it did when the X model series was launched on the market.

Addendum

Technical data and images Copyright BMW

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N. Hawthorn
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