PressClub New Zealand · Article.
Pricing announced for first-ever BMW iX ahead of Q4 2021 launch in New Zealand.
Wed Aug 25 06:00:27 CEST 2021 Press Release
The first-ever BMW iX, which showcases new generation technology, connectivity, design language and fully electric driving enjoyment, will arrive in New Zealand in Q4 2021 with two variants.
- Full pricing, specification and details announced for first-ever BMW iX xDrive40 and xDrive50 in lead up to Q4 arrival in New Zealand
- BMW’s latest technology flagship debuts fifth-generation BMW eDrive technology, 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 77kWh battery
- xDrive50 capable of 385kW combined output, up to 765Nm torque and 630km range from latest-generation 112kWh 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 more than 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 components and battery cells manufactured using green power across the board; electric drive system avoids use of rare earth materials
- Priced from $163,900* for iX xDrive40
- BMW New Zealand Online Store (https://onlinestore.bmw.co.nz/) enables customers to reserve their new BMW iX ahead of local launch
- All BMW iX models offered with a complimentary ChargeNow membership to access the largest network of public fast charging stations nationwide
- 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 in Q4 2021 with two variants.
The New Zealand iX line-up will comprise of the xDrive40 Sport and iX xDrive50 Sport, both offering extensive standard packed with a plethora of luxury, safety, technology and convenience features.
Customers will also be able to reserve their iX seamlessly online via the BMW New Zealand Online Store (https://onlinestore.bmw.co.nz/).
The two power systems at the heart of the iX models are highly advanced fifth-generation BMW eDrive components, responsive and with abundant power – 240kW in the xDrive40 Sport, and 385kW in the xDrive50 Sport.
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 components fitted to the BMW iX
sees the electric motor, power electronics and transmission coming
together 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 activation, as well as a tall, broad and flat torque band. Combined torque peaks at 630Nm on the BMW iX xDrive40, towers at 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 gross energy content of 112kWh, while the battery unit for the BMW iX xDrive40 has a gross energy content of 77kWh.
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 electric range of the BMW iX.
Intelligently connected drive management means the intensity of the brake energy recuperation during deceleration 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 one-pedal driving experience synonymous with electric vehicles.
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.
Carbon Cage and optimised chassis/handling package
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.
22-inch Aerodynamic wheels are fitted as standard to both Sport variants. The design on these specially-created wheels are also optimised to reduce the amount of turbulent air created around the wheels, further optimising efficiency.
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.
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.
The BMW iX also integrates 5G onboard mobile technology for high-speed data transmission, future-proofing its infotainment systems for innovations to come.
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.
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, both of which are standard on New Zealand-delivered models, 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 are 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 placement of components is part of BMW’s Shy Tech philosophy where elements are seamlessly integrated and in some cases hidden from view.
The kidney grille also has an in-built cleaning system and self-healing function for remedying light stone chips.
The BMW iX has been rigorously designed from the inside out with a focus on improving quality of life and personal well-being 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.
The premium and thoughtfully minimalistic feel of the cabin is also enhanced – as with exterior elements – via the use of Shy Tech, with certain features deliberately positioned out of sight such as speakers, intricately styled air vents and heated surfaces.
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.
All models feature the ‘Suite’ interior as standard, with exclusive olive leaf-tanned leather providing the ambience of a luxurious private living space in a selection of new colours such as Stone Grey, Amido and Castanea with highlights in Gold Bronze.
On request, customers can also choose an animal-free interior with the iX’s ‘Loft’ option, a cloth/microfibre upholstery package with Gold Bronze highlights that delivers the same luxurious and more minimalist feel.
The Panorama Glass Roof Sky Lounge, which is standard on iX xDrive50 Sport, is the largest panoramic glass roof ever offered by BMW at one metre wide and two metres long.
The large glass roof also features an electro-chromatic shade function that provides UV and solar heat protection to provide a comfortable cabin environment at all times.
The automatic climate control system in the BMW iX comes with a nano-particle 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.
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
All variants of the BMW iX are be produced at BMW Group Plant Dingolfing.
Both the vehicle itself and the battery cells are manufactured using green power across the board, with a highly sustainable value chain that avoids primary resource use as much as possible built in to the production process.
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. The company also smelts part of the aluminium used in the production of the car using green 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.
The all-new BMW iX and the ChargeNow network in New Zealand
All new BMW electric vehicle owners will receive a free ChargeNow membership card and free membership.
BMW electric vehicle owners will also receive a 10% discount on all charging sessions used in the ChargeNow charging network for the first 24 months.
BMW iX xDrive40 Sport and iX xDrive50 Sport pricing*
BMW iX xDrive40 Sport $163,900*
BMW iX xDrive50 Sport $197,900*
*Recommended Retail Pricing is shown and includes GST, but excludes on-road and delivery costs. Customers are advised to contact their nearest BMW dealer for all pricing enquiries.
#Power ratings for iX M60 are an estimated figure at the current time of printing.
BMW iX xDrive40 Sport:
Standard specification highlights:
- Two current-excited synchronous motors, one front, one rear
- 77 kWh high-voltage battery unit
- 240kW
- 630Nm
- 0-100km/h 6.1s
- Max range (WLTP) = 425km
- Metallic Paintwork
- Sport Package (includes pronounced side sills in Black high-gloss, front apron (with Air Curtains) in body colour, exclusive 22-inch wheel design, dark headlights, Sport brakes with brake callipers in blue, dark smoked-glass taillights, exclusive paint finishes and a kidney grille pattern in Chrome (optionally Titanium Bronze).
- BMW IconicSounds Electric
- 22” Aerodynamic Alloy Wheels, non-Runflat, incl. repair kit
- LED Headlights
- Shadow Line Exterior
- Alarm System
- Comfort Access
- Seat Heating, front
- Multifunctional Seats, front incl. massage function
- Automatic Air Conditioning, 4-Zone
- Ambient Lighting
- Charging Cable - Mode 2 for domestic sockets
- Charging Cable – Mode 3 for public chargers
- Driving Assistant Professional
- Parking Assistant Plus
- harman/kardon Surround Sound
- DAB+ Digital Radio
- Storage for Wireless Charging
- Connected Package Professional, incl. Apple CarPlay
- ConnectedDrive eDrive Services
- BMW Live Cockpit Pro, BMW Operating System 8
- Interior Design ‘Suite’ - Olive Leaf Tanned Leather
iX xDrive50 Sport:
Includes all specification
elements from the xDrive40 Sport and adds the following:
- Two current-excited synchronous motors, one front, one rear
- 112 kWh high-voltage battery unit
-
- 385kW
- 765Nm
- 0-100km/h 4.6s
- Max range (WLTP) = 630km
- Panorama Glass Roof Sky Lounge
- BMW Laserlight
- Integral Active Steering
- Adaptive 2-Axle Air Suspension
- Soft-Close Doors
Option packages
Comfort Package | All models |
Available only with Interior Design Suite Amido/Castanea
| $3,400 |
Enhancement Package | xDrive40 Sport |
| $8,600 |
BMW iX – Technical Data
Variant | Power | Torque | 0-100km/h (sec) |
Battery |
Range | RRP* |
xDrive40 Sport | 240kW | 630Nm | 6.1 | 77
| 425 | $163,900* |
xDrive50 Sport | 385kW | 765Nm | 4.6 | 112
| 630 | $197,900* |
BMW iX – Charging Data
Charging rate | xDrive40 Sport | xDrive50 Sport |
Max DC Charge Rate | 150kW | 200kW |
Range from 10 mins charge at Public Charger (max rate) | >95km | 150km |
Public Charging 10 – 80% charge (max rate) | 0:31hrs (approx.) | 0:35hrs (approx.) |
BMW i Wallbox 10 – 80% charge (11kW rate) | 7:15hrs (approx.) | 10:45hrs (approx.) |
Domestic socket 10 – 80% charge (approx. 1.8kW rate) | 44:00hrs (approx.) | 66:00hrs (approx.) |
- 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.
The success of the BMW Group has always been based on long-term thinking and responsible action. The company has therefore established ecological and social sustainability throughout the value chain, comprehensive product responsibility and a clear commitment to conserving resources as an integral part of its strategy.
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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.
The all-new BMW Store is set to further bolster the success of the Group within the local market, providing customers with a fast and efficient way to secure new vehicles online.
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