BMW New Zealand announces pricing and specifications for all-new BMW iX3.

• Addition of iX3 to X3 line-up gives medium-sized SAV the widest choice of powertrains in its segment, in line with BMW Group’s ‘Power of Choice’ product strategy
• BMW’s dedication to Sustainability underlined by strict compliance to environmental and human rights in supply chain, increased use of secondary raw materials, absence of rare earth materials in motor components and use of renewable energy in production
• Fifth-generation BMW Group eDrive technology generates 210kW and 400Nm, no rare earths used in electric motor
• 80kWh battery enables exceptional range of up to 460km on the WLTP test cycle, can be charged from 10 to 80 per cent in just 32 minutes
• Complimentary ChargeNow membership offered with every new iX3, with 10% off all public charging rates for the first 24 months  
• Choice of two trims available with comprehensive levels of standard equipment, priced from $114,900*
• BMW NZ Online shop enables customers to reserve their new iX3 ahead of Q4 2021 deliveries

The first-ever fully electric BMW iX3, which showcases new generation technology, connectivity, design language and fully electric driving enjoyment, will arrive in New Zealand in Q4 2021.

The BMW iX3 will be positioned as a medium-sized SAV and the first model to fulfil BMW’s promised ‘Power of Choice’ strategy offering customers a choice of

powertrains to choose from in the segment: petrol, diesel, plug-in hybrid and electric options each offer unique benefits and suitability to customer’s preferred lifestyle.  

The all-new BMW iX3 will be built with Sustainability as a key focus, from procurement of raw materials via the supply chain, through to production, use phase and end-of-life recycling.

The amount of the raw cobalt material used in the high-voltage battery of the BMW iX3 has been reduced by around a third compared with the previous-generation battery in the 2019 BMW i3 model.

The BMW Group follows its own procurement process for the cobalt and lithium it supplies to the producers of the battery cells, part of which involves strict compliance with environmental and human rights standards.

Renewable energy is used both for the manufacture of the battery cells and in the production of the vehicle.

The BMW-specific design principle that underpins the electric motor dispenses with the need for rare-earth metals in the momentum-generating rotor.

Extensive use of secondary raw materials in the manufacture of aluminium castings and thermoplastics further help the BMW Group achieve its ’80-40-20’ goals in cutting CO2 emissions and promoting its ‘Secondary First’ approach to resource use.

Fifth-generation BMW eDrive technology sets tone for the future

The all-new BMW iX3 blazes a trail for driving pleasure in a new generation of electric vehicles from the BMW i brand.

It is the first model to feature fifth-generation BMW eDrive technology. This system is also found on the BMW iX, which launches in Q4 this year, and the BMW i4, which will go on sale in New Zealand by Q1 2022.  

Its integrated drive unit brings the electric motor, power electronics and transmission together within a single housing, and generates 210kW and 400Nm.  

The iX3 also features rear-wheel-drive – a hallmark BMW handling characteristic that carries over seamlessly into the world of EVs.

The high-voltage battery in the BMW iX3 is also the product of fifth-generation BMW eDrive technology.

Its gross energy content of 80kWh and the exceptional efficiency of the electric motor enable a range of up to 460 kilometres as calculated on the WLTP test cycle.

Flexible vehicle architecture with array of practicality features

The new BMW iX3’s sure-footed and safe driving characteristics are the result of an outstandingly well-resolved overall design.

It shares the rugged versatility of the conventionally powered BMW X3 variants, provides generous levels of space for five occupants, has a load compartment with a capacity from 510 litres to a maximum of 1,560 litres, bringing unrivalled practicality with its allure of emissions-free driving pleasure.

Production of the new BMW iX3 will commence at the BMW Brilliance Automotive joint venture’s Shenyang facility in China, starting September 2021.

Exterior design details convey style, sporting intent and sustainability elements

With its powerful proportions, precise lines and clear sculpted surfaces, the new BMW iX3 is every inch the modern Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV).

Colour accents in BMW i Blue, a largely enclosed BMW kidney grille and light-alloy wheels with optimised aerodynamics signify the presence of a purely electric drive system and a vehicle concept focused squarely on sustainability.

The characteristic blend of sporty driving pleasure and exceptional efficiency is showcased even more vividly in the exterior design.

The BMW kidney grille, a centrepiece of the front design, is now more striking than while being encased in a single-piece frame.

This comes in pearl-effect chrome with a blue accent – in familiar BMW i style – along the inner edges. The inner surfaces of the kidney grille elements have a mesh-like structure and feature a BMW i badge.

The new contours of the headlights, which are around 10 millimetres slimmer than on the previous model, also help to provide the new BMW iX3 its visually striking looks.

This lends the front end a distinct similarity to that of the BMW iX and BMW i4 electric models.

The new iX3 is also fitted as standard with Adaptive LED Headlights with matrix function including variable light distribution and non-dazzling High Beam Assistant.

Adaptive LED Headlights with BMW Laserlight can be specified as an option. At speeds above 60 km/h, the dynamic Laserlight module increases high-beam range to a maximum of 650 metres and follows the course of the road.

Blue inlays in the L-shaped light elements of the daytime driving lights identify its inclusion. The BMW i8 plug-in hybrid sports car was the first production vehicle to feature the sophisticated laser light technology in 2014.  

M Sport package included as standard

The M Sport package, supplied as standard for all iX3 variants in New Zealand, provides a commanding road presence and begins with a prominent three-dimensional surface design for the front apron.

The lower air intake, which comes with 10-stage active air flap control to cool the drive system components and brakes, has gained in size. The air curtains positioned at the outer edges of the front end are now L-shaped and carry blue accents.

The air breathers in the front side panels additionally feature a M-specific design, while muscular and aerodynamically optimised surfacing marks out the rear apron.

The rear design is characterised by rear diffuser elements finished in Frozen Grey or optional BMW i Blue, while contours of the LED rear lights are in black. 

Slim light graphic and three-dimensional pincer-shaped contouring with delicately integrated horizontal turn signal indicators enhance the iX3’s rear design in low light conditions.

The BMW iX3 will be offered in New Zealand with 19-inch aerodynamic wheels as standard for the iX3 Inspiring and 20-inch aerodynamic wheels as standard for the iX3 Impressive.

These new wheels help provide the vehicle its low drag coefficient figure of just 0.29 while delivering a premium appearance with their bicolour design.  

These new wheels help provide the vehicle its low drag coefficient figure of just 0.29 while delivering a premium appearance with their Y-spoke, bicolour design.  

Driving pleasure and cabin controls further enhanced for new model

The sporting nature of the BMW iX3 stands out prominently in the cabin.

Sport seats trimmed in leather ‘Vernasca’ upholstery are fitted as standard, while a modern control panel in the centre console and restyled controls in the centre of the instrument panel add to the vehicle’s progressive, premium ambience.

BMW Live Cockpit Professional is fitted as standard and includes a control display whose screen diagonal has been increased to an impressive 12.3 inches.

Blue accents applied to the Start/Stop button – which is now located in the centre console – as well as the gear selector lever and the BMW emblem on the steering wheel allude to the pure-electric drive system at the heart of the BMW iX3.

Other model-specific cues include the model lettering on the centre console and door sill plates bearing the BMW i logo.

Elements in the instrument cluster and control display screens also reflect the presence of the highly advanced electric drive system.

Standard-fitment ambient lighting additionally features BMW i blue illumination in its default setting.

Start/Stop sound courtesy of an Academy Award winner

The new BMW iX3 comes as standard with a Start/Stop acoustic sequence developed as part of a collaboration between Oscar-winning composer Hans Zimmer and BMW Group Creative Director Sound, Renzo Vitale.

When the Start/Stop button is pressed, a short composition sets the scene for the electric driving experience in store.

Sharp dynamics combine with refined road manners

The new BMW iX3 brings together typical BMW sportiness with a high level of comfort.

The acceleration potential of the all-electric powertrain with its immediate power delivery is complemented by precise handling, outstanding cornering dynamics and optimised traction.

Positioning of the high-voltage battery unit between the axles provides a centre of gravity 7.5cm lower than that of a conventionally powered BMW X3.

In addition, the vehicle benefits from a wide track on the front and rear axles, model-specific wheel camber settings for the five-link rear suspension and a balanced axle load distribution.

The optimised aerodynamic properties of the body and its high structural rigidity also contribute to a high level of engagement.

Driving dynamics are further enhanced with the fitment of adaptive suspension as standard.

Highly integrated drive system with electrically excited electric motor

The fifth generation BMW eDrive unit brings together the electric motor, power electronics and transmission within a single housing.

This highly integrated electric drive system topology located in the model-specific rear axle subframe allows a substantial reduction in both the installation space required and the weight of the components relative to the power they produce.

This has brought about an increase in power density of around 30 per cent compared with the BMW eDrive technology previously featured in electrified models.

The electric motor in the new BMW iX3 works according to the principle of an electrically excited synchronous motor and therefore differs significantly from other solutions on the market. The excitation of the rotor is not induced by fixed permanent magnets but rather the feed-in of electric power.

This design allows the rare earth metals required for magnetic components to be avoided entirely in the manufacture of the rotor.

The latest version of the electric motor also demonstrates efficiency of up to 93 per cent – an increase of 53 per cent on modern combustion engines.

The drive system can rev to 17,000rpm and generates maximum output of 210kW, which is produced early and can be sustained over a wide rev band.

The motor’s peak torque of 400Nm can be summoned from rest thanks to thoughtfully managed excitation of the rotor and is likewise maintained into the upper reaches of the rev range.

The motor’s drive power is transferred along the shortest possible path to the single-ratio transmission, which is installed in the same housing, and from there to the rear wheels.

In the process, advanced driving stability control technology, including the near-actuator wheel slip limitation technology that was first featured on the BMW i3, helps to sustain forward momentum even in adverse road and weather conditions.

The new BMW iX3 accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in just 6.8 seconds, while top speed is electronically limited to 180km/h.

High-voltage, high-capacity battery

The high-voltage battery in the new BMW iX3 is based on the latest Nickel-rich technology familiar from other BMW applications.

The lithium-ion battery is composed of 188 individually controllable, prismatic battery cells – each cased in aluminium – which are grouped into 10 modules. The battery is positioned low down in the vehicle floor as an integral component of the body.

The new-generation battery has a gross energy content of 80kWh, of which 74kWh is utilised, giving it an advanced mass-to-capacity ratio. The high-voltage battery’s outstanding energy density, the electric motor’s outstanding efficiency, the adaptive recuperation function, a weight-minimising design and the reduction in the body’s aerodynamic drag add up to an all-encompassing sustainability concept and impressive capabilities in everyday use and over long-distance journeys.

The BMW iX3 therefore differs significantly from other electric vehicles in its segment whose range is boosted mostly by adoption of larger high-voltage batteries. These impact negatively on the vehicle’s weight and, by extension, its overall efficiency.

Adaptive recuperation enhances efficiency and comfort

The BMW iX3 comes fitted with an innovative adaptive recuperation system that optimises its range while delivering a high level of comfort.

Intensity of the Brake Energy Regeneration is adapted to the road situation via input from the BMW driver assistance system sensors.

If the iX3 determines a junction or vehicle is ahead, it will engage the full level of recuperation, increasing the deceleration effect and using the electric motor to return energy to the battery.

On the open road where intersections and vehicles are less prevalent, the vehicle engages its coasting function. However, it will intelligently intervene when required during this mode by initiating recuperation when the turn indicators are activated. 

Adaptive recuperation is enabled when the driving position D is engaged using the selector lever on the centre console. The driver can also select a high, medium or low Brake Energy Regeneration setting in the iDrive menu to suit their needs or style.

When driving position B is selected, the distinctive one-pedal feeling characteristic of BMW Group’s electric vehicles is brought to the fore thanks to the implementation of maximum energy recuperation.

Combined Charging Unit for fast charging at up to 150kW

The Combined Charging Unit (CCU) in the new BMW iX3 enables an extremely high level of flexibility when it comes to using charging stations of different types.

When using alternating current (AC) terminals, the CCU enables single-phase charging at up to 7.4kW and three-phase charging at up to 11kW. Plugging the vehicle into a direct current (DC) fast-charging station allows it to take energy on board at a rate of up to 150kW.

When plugged into a BMW Wallbox, the high-voltage battery can be charged from 0 to 100 per cent in just 7.5 hours.

A DC fast-charging station, meanwhile, can replenish the battery from 10 to 80 per cent of its full capacity in 32 minutes. A 10-minute charge at one of these stations provides enough power to add 100 kilometres to the driving range on the WLTP cycle.

Connected charging with new features in My BMW app

The new My BMW app, which launched earlier this year, includes enhanced functionality for electric vehicles. 

Extensive information on charging history, charging process and control of charging and climate settings are fully integrated.  

It is also possible to receive push notifications, such as when the vehicle is fully charged.

Apple CarPlay and Android Auto fully integrated

Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are seamlessly integrated as part of BMW Live Cockpit Plus.

The iX3 provides the platform for Apple CarPlay to offer a wide range of digital services such as the Siri digital voice service, various map apps, music streaming services such as Apple Music or the WhatsApp messaging service.

The systems are integrated directly into the display and control system through a wireless connection via WLAN between the respective smartphone and the vehicle.

The driver can view important information from the apps shown on the centre control display, in the instrument cluster and on the standard-fitment BMW Head-Up Display (HUD).

Wireless Android Auto offers simple and safe use of smartphone functions such as music, media or messaging apps while driving.

With the help of the Google Assistant, occupants can interact with the vehicle via a smartphone and the actions shown on the vehicle's info display.

 Highlights of the interaction between Android Auto and BMW are the convenient wireless networking and the intelligent integration of Google Maps navigation instructions in the HUD.

Driver assistance systems with unique functions

The BMW iX3 is supported by a comprehensive array of driver assistance systems fitted as standard, including the highly advanced Reversing Assistant.

Driving Assistant Professional, which comes as standard, includes Active Cruise Control with Stop&Go function, Lane Keeping Assistant with active side collision protection, Steering and Lane Control Assistant with active lane guidance, Crossing-traffic Warning for front and rear, Evasion Assistant, Crossroads Warning with city braking function and Speed Limit Assist.

The Parking Assistant Plus system integrates a range of features to aid in convenient and safe manoeuvring in tight and awkward spaces while also protecting the vehicle. The networked offering includes Park Assist, Active Park Distance Control, lateral parking aid, Reversing Assistant, Surround View system and Remote 3D View.

In addition, the iX3 is fitted with acoustic pedestrian protection. This system uses a virtual sound generator located on the vehicle exterior that emits a sound when driving at speeds of up to 30km/h to warn pedestrians and cyclists of the iX3’s presence.

The all-new BMW iX3 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 iX3 pricing*

BMW iX3 Inspiring                        $114,900*

BMW iX3 Impressive                    $124,900*

*Recommended Retail Pricing is shown and includes GST, but excludes on-road and delivery costs. Customers are advised to contact their nearest BMW dealer or visit the BMW NZ Online Store (onlinestore.bmw.co.nz) for all enquiries.

BMW iX3 Inspiring:

Standard specification highlights:

• Current-excited synchronous motor, rear
• 80 kWh high-voltage battery unit

• • • 210kW
    • 400Nm
    • 0-100km/h 6.8s
    • Max range (WLTP) = 460km

• M Sport Package, M high gloss Shadow Line roof rails and window décor strips
• Panorama glass sunroof
• 19" M light alloy Aerodynamic wheels style 842 M Bicolour
• Adaptive Suspension
• Adaptive LED headlights incl. High Beam Assistant
• Driving Assistant Professional
• Tyre Pressure Monitoring System
• Automatic climate control
• Leather 'Vernasca' Upholstery
• Instrument panel in Sensatec
• Sport seats for driver and front passenger, electrically heated
• Electric seat adjustment
• Interior ambient lighting package
• Galvanic embellishers for controls
• Reclining function for second seating row
• Comfort Access
• Automatic tailgate operation
• BMW Live Cockpit Professional featuring BMW Operating System 7
• Smartphone Integration
• Hifi sound system
• Wireless Charging for smartphone
• DAB+ digital radio
• ChargeNow Membership
• Model 2 Domestic charger
• Model 3 Public charging cable
• Vehicle pre-heating/pre-conditioning

BMW iX3 Impressive:

Standard specification highlights (in addition to iX3 Inspiring):

• 20" M light alloy wheels Y-spoke style 890 M Bicolour
• Parking Assistant Plus, incl. Reversing Assistant
• Acoustic Glass
• BMW Head-up Display
• BMW IconicSounds Electric
• Comfort Access feat. Digital Key
• Gesture control
• harman/kardon 16-speaker surround sound system
• Lumbar support

Optional Equipment

BMW iX3 – Technical Data

BMW iX3 – Charging Data

- 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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