Full specifications announced for first-ever BMW iX ahead of Q4 launch in New Zealand.

• Full specifications and further details announced for first-ever BMW iX xDrive40 and xDrive50 in lead up to Q4 local arrival in New Zealand
• BMW’s latest technology flagship debuts new toolkit for the future, locally emission-free driving pleasure and heightened focus on sustainability
• xDrive40 capable of 240kW combined output, 630Nm torque and 425km range from latest-generation 76.6kWh battery
• xDrive50 capable of 385kW combined output, up to 765Nm torque and 630km range from latest-generation 111.5kWh battery
• Supremely flexible charging up to 200kW (DC) on xDrive50 and 150kW (DC) on xDrive40
• As much as 150 kilometres of range can be added in just 10 minutes on xDrive50 and 95 kilometres on xDrive40
• New design language highlights pioneering character
• Interior redesigned from the inside out, featuring new BMW Curved Display and latest generation iDrive system
• Vehicle and battery cells manufactured using green power across the board; electric drive system avoids use of rare earth materials
• Exceptionally sporty iX M60 variant with output in excess of 440kW^# confirmed with details to be released at a later date

The first-ever BMW iX, which showcases new generation technology, connectivity, design language and fully electric driving enjoyment, will arrive in New Zealand later this year.

The New Zealand iX line-up will offer extensive standard specification items including myriad luxury, safety, technology and convenience features. 

The two power systems at the heart of the iX models are highly advanced, responsive and deliver abundant power with a combined output of 240kW in the iX xDrive40 and 385kW in the iX xDrive50. 

The latest battery cell technology results in WLTP-calculated ranges of up to 630 kilometres in the iX xDrive50 and up to 425 kilometres in the iX xDrive40.

Also set to join the iX line-up at a later date is the powerhouse BMW iX M60, which will produce a maximum output in excess of 440 kW^# and deliver an exceptionally sporty all-electric driving experience.

Highly-integrated and efficient drive technology

The fifth-generation BMW eDrive technology fitted to the BMW iX brings together the electric motor, power electronics and transmission within a single housing.

This highly integrated electric drive system maximises power density and efficiency in a compact package positioned across the front and rear axles.

Both motors in the BMW iX operate according to the principle of an electrically excited synchronous motor, where the excitation of the rotor is induced by the feed-in of electrical energy rather than fixed permanent magnets.

This enables maximum torque on tap immediately upon pulling away, as well as a tall, broad and flat torque band. Combined torque peaks at 630Nm on the BMW iX xDrive40 and a towering 765Nm on the BMW iX xDrive50.

Electric all-wheel-drive and near-actuator wheel slip limitation

The electric all-wheel-drive system in the BMW iX transmits exactly the right amount of drive torque to the front and rear wheels in all driving situations.

Its intelligent drive control enables fully variable power transmission, ranging from highly efficient pure rear-wheel-drive to traction-maximising all-wheel-drive.

The near-actuator wheel slip limitation technology fitted in tandem with all-wheel-drive for the first time brings about a further improvement in traction and handling stability.

This system, which is integrated in the motor management, produces precise and lightning fast corrective inputs. The result is effortless progress at all times even in adverse weather and road conditions.

The xDrive50 posts impressive acceleration times with 0 to 100km/h achieved in just 4.6 seconds, while the xDrive40 hits 100km/h from rest in 6.1 seconds.

High-voltage battery with the latest battery cell technology

The BMW iX features fifth-generation BMW eDrive technology with state-of-the-art high voltage battery cell technology.

Volumetric energy density at cell level is up by around 40 per cent compared with the high-voltage battery in the 2020 BMW i3.

The BMW iX xDrive50 is fitted with a high-voltage battery with a net energy content of 105.2 kWh (gross energy content: 111.5 kWh), while the battery unit for the BMW iX xDrive40 has a net energy content of 71 kWh (gross energy content: 76.6 kWh).

The standard specification of the BMW iX includes an integrated heating and cooling system for the cabin, together with its high-voltage battery and a drive system that operates using an exceptionally efficient heat pump function.

Anticipatory thermal management enables the high-voltage battery’s operating temperature to be optimised for quick and efficient charging prior to a scheduled stop at a fast-charging station.

The Combined Charging Unit (CCU) in the BMW iX offers supremely flexible charging options in both AC and DC formats. 

DC power can be taken on board at a rate of up to 200kW (iX xDrive50) or 150kW (iX xDrive40). This allows the battery’s state of charge to be increased from 10 to 80 per cent in just 35 minutes in the BMW iX xDrive50 or 31 minutes in the iX xDrive40.

Range can be increased by up to 150 kilometres on the iX xDrive50 and more than 95 kilometres for the iX xDrive40 in just 10 minutes when they are plugged into a DC fast-charging station with an initial battery charge of 10 per cent.

Adaptive and individually regulated recuperation

Adaptive recuperation gives a further boost to the efficiency and range of the BMW iX.

Intelligently connected drive management means the intensity of the brake energy recuperation during overrun and active braking can be specifically adapted to different road situations, as detected by data from the navigation system and the sensors used by the driver assistance systems.

When approaching a junction, for example, the degree of recuperation is automatically increased, maximising energy recuperation while simultaneously harnessing the deceleration effect to a standstill.

On the open road, coasting functions can take over, allowing the car to free wheel with no drive power whenever the driver eases off the accelerator.

Adaptive recuperation is the default setting in driving position D. Alternatively, the driver can choose a high, medium or low Brake Energy Regeneration setting for all driving situations via the BMW iDrive menu.

The highest recuperation setting is automatically activated in driving position B, which also produces the characteristic one-pedal feeling.

Information on the energy flow can be further viewed in the control display of the BMW iX no matter which driving position is selected. An integrated ‘Efficiency Trainer’ offers hints for driving in a very economical manner, while the range horizon clearly illustrates the impact of driving style on the high-voltage battery’s charge level.

Optimally balanced driving characteristics

The body structure, design principle and chassis tuning of the BMW iX are perfectly calibrated to blend superb ride comfort with sporty handling characteristics.

The iX features aluminium spaceframe construction and carbon fibre-reinforced plastic (CFRP) in the roof, sides and rear of its ‘Carbon Cage’, resulting in an intelligent material mix that increases rigidity at the same time as minimising weight.

Optimised aerodynamic properties contribute to the car’s low drag coefficient of just 0.25, maximising efficiency and range.

The high-voltage battery is located low down in the car’s underbody, contributing to agile and responsive handling. 

The standard chassis technology for the BMW iX comprises a double-wishbone front axle, five-link rear axle, lift-related dampers and an electric steering system with Servotronic function and a variable ratio.

These features combine to create well-balanced driving characteristics that enable the BMW iX to feel solid and comfortable but also agile when the need arises.

Twenty one inch aerodynamically-optimised wheels are standard from the entry point of the line-up, while 22-inch wheels are fitted to both Sport variants. Other wheel designs with contrasting finishes are also available in both wheel sizes. 

Premiere of new generation BMW iDrive and operating software

The BMW iX also sees debut of the latest generation of iDrive, based on BMW Operating System 8.

The new Operating System makes the most of the new BMW Curved Display and verbal communication with the BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant, which has also undergone an extensive upgrade.

New ‘My Modes’ personalisation options expand the range of vehicle settings that can be selected, thereby creating an all-encompassing personal driving experience.

Remote Software Upgrades and the option of purchasing vehicle functions from the BMW ConnectedDrive Store via Functions on Demand keep vehicle functions always up to date.

Navigation using the cloud-based system BMW Maps and Augmented Reality Video in the control display ensures quick and accurate route planning while also making it easy for the driver to find their way on the road.

5G onboard mobile technology for data transmission and the ability to integrate a personal mobile account into the car using the personal eSIM reinforce the pioneering status of the BMW iX.

Wide variety of driver assistance systems

The new technology toolkit in the BMW iX offers considerable potential for the development of automated driving and parking functions, with the prospect of Level 3 functionality in the medium term.

A new generation of sensors, a new software stack and a powerful computing platform provide the basis for exceptional intelligence. Five cameras, five radar sensors and 12 ultrasonic sensors are used to monitor the vehicle’s surroundings.

The BMW iX comes equipped with the most extensive set of standard driver assistance systems ever seen on a BMW. The front collision warning system, for instance, now detects oncoming traffic as well as cyclists and pedestrians when turning.

Steering and Lane Control Assistant features have been significantly expanded, while Active Cruise Control with Stop & Go function offers enhanced situational distance adjustment.

The exit warning function, which alerts to the presence of cyclists or pedestrians in the surrounding area before the doors are opened, and the Remote Theft Recorder, are both new features.

Also on the standard equipment list is Parking Assistant including Reversing Assist Camera and Reversing Assistant.

Exterior design exudes progressive luxury; spacious interior provides premium, feel-good ambience

The pioneering character of the BMW iX clearly shines through in its exterior design.

The reduced design language and precisely crafted details melds with the body’s muscular Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV) proportions and imposing presence to create an aura of progressive luxury.

Standout exterior features include the almost completely blanked-off BMW kidney grille, whose surface is the product of innovative manufacturing techniques and which incorporates camera and radar sensors.

The BMW iX has been rigorously designed from the inside out with a focus on improving quality of life and personal wellbeing in mind.

Vast amounts of room and newly developed seats with integral head restraints set the tone for the luxurious ambience. The absence of a centre tunnel creates extra legroom and sufficient space for storage facilities and a centre console designed in the style of a high quality piece of furniture.

Feeler bars in the control panel, active haptic input buttons and a rocker switch for gear selection add futuristic instrumental flourishes.

In addition to the BMW Curved Display, the iX’s hexagonal steering wheel and frameless projector integration for the optional Head‑Up Display further add to the futuristic interior and focused driving experience.

Two available interior design themes, Loft and Suite, each offer their own unique character and ambience while three different trim choices – Stone Grey, Amido and Castanea – are available to further customise the cabin’s look and feel. 

The automatic climate control system in the BMW iX comes with a nano-fibre filter to purify the air and new touchscreen controls. The system intelligently combines interior ventilation and surface, seat and steering wheel heating to maximise occupants’ sense of well-being.

The optional 1,615-watt Bowers & Wilkins Diamond Surround Sound System with speakers integrated out of sight in the head restraints and a 4D Audio function using bass shakers in the front seats promises the ultimate sound experience.

In addition to acoustic pedestrian protection, the BMW iX also features a specially composed drive sound, which adds to the thrill of the driving experience by providing authentic feedback in response to accelerator movements and speed.

The BMW IconicSounds Electric function included as standard also allows new sound variants from a collaboration with film score composer Hans Zimmer to be added to the acoustic repertoire.

Production at BMW Group Plant Dingolfing using purely green power, monitored raw materials extraction, high proportion of natural and recycled materials

The BMW iX will be produced at BMW Group Plant Dingolfing.

Both the vehicle itself and the battery cells will be manufactured using green power across the board. The BMW Group procures the cobalt and lithium required for the high-voltage batteries from controlled sources in Australia and Morocco and delivers it to the battery cell manufacturers.

The design principle for the electric motors allows the use of rare earth metals to be avoided in the drive system rotors. Added to which, the company sources aluminium produced using power from solar energy plants.

A high proportion of secondary aluminium and reused plastic also contribute to the resource-efficient production of the BMW iX. Its interior uses FSC-certified wood, leather tanned with olive leaf extracts and other natural materials. Recycled fishing nets are among the raw materials used for the floor coverings and mats.

Further announcements on local pricing in New Zealand will be made closer to market launch.

#Figures relating to motor output and energy consumption of the BMW iX M60 are predicted values based on the
car’s current stage of development

- ENDS -

The BMW Group

With its four brands BMW, MINI, Rolls-Royce and BMW Motorrad, the BMW Group is the world’s leading premium manufacturer of automobiles and motorcycles and also provides premium financial and mobility services. The BMW Group production network comprises 31 production and assembly facilities in 15 countries; the company has a global sales network in more than 140 countries.

In 2020, the BMW Group sold over 2.3 million passenger vehicles and more than 169,000 motorcycles worldwide. The profit before tax in the financial year 2019 was € 7.118 billion on revenues amounting to € 104.210 billion. As of 31 December 2019, the BMW Group had a workforce of 126,016 employees.

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BMW Group New Zealand

With its 10 BMW Dealerships and 6 MINI dealerships, BMW Group New Zealand is one of the country’s leading premium automotive brands. BMW Group New Zealand outperformed the industry with BMW and MINI registering a cumulative total of 2,255 units in 2020, ending the year as the #1 premium car brand in the country.

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