The BMW i3 has not been the runaway success the Bavarian carmaker had been hoping, but it definitely hasn’t been a flop either, becoming the best-selling EV on some European markets over the years.
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That said, having its own dedicated platform based on space-age materials and technology probably didn’t bode well for its immediate return on investment.

Despite the i3 not getting a direct successor, BMW’s foray into electric cars is far from over. On the contrary, the X3-based iX3 is already here, and will be soon followed by the i4 electric sedan, which is based on the upcoming 4 Series Gran Coupe.

Going forward, the next-generation 7 Series will also get an all-electric version called the i7, with the i5 possibly being a 5 Series sized sedan powered by electrons as well.

The loss of the more urban-centric i3 from the lineup will apparently be sugarcoated by the appearance of the BMW iX1 sometime next year.

As its name suggests, the iX1 is essentially a battery powered version of the 2022 BMW X1, which will be built on an updated version of the UKL platform, shared with MINI and all compact BMWs with transverse engines.

Technically a more direct rival to the recently unveiled Mercedes-Benz EQA and the upcoming EQB, the iX1 will also serve as a not-so-direct replacement for the i3.

Despite having a crossover/SUV body, the initial model will only be FWD, powered by a single motor with around 180 horsepower. According to some rumors, there will also be a dual-motor, all-wheel-drive version later on, with around 250 horsepower at its disposal.

The top of the range BMW iX1 is expected to feature a 65-70 kWh lithium-battery, which should be good enough for a 500 km (310 miles) range in the WLTP cycle.

While its main market will probably be Europe and China, the U.S. should also get a taste of the electric crossover after it goes on sale, and there are voices who say that it might even be accompanied by an i2, which should be an electric version of the 2 Series Gran Coupe.

BMW has revealed an updated version of the iX3 battery-electric sport utility, after less than a year on the market. The reason for such a quick update is that the iX3 debuted well into the product cycle of the underlying X3 model, which was due for a mid-cycle refresh anyway, so the iX3 will get a fresher look in the process. The updated version will receive an official debut at the Munich IAA in a matter of weeks.

What's new for the iX3?

The most noticeable changes are on the outside, with a larger kidney grille and revised lights front and back. BMW has also updated the sculpting of the front apron with this update, which has also added the M Sport styling details as a standard item offering 19-inch wheels, a sport steering wheel and unique front and rear fascias. The automaker did not neglect the interior, adding the latest 12.3-inch instrument cluster and a 12.3-inch infotainment screen, along with a redesigned center console housing the BMW Controller and the gear selector lever.

As the iX3 debuted only a short time ago, the drivetrain will carry on without changes, offering 281 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque courtesy of a single motor positioned at the rear axle, drawing juice from an 80-kWh cycle. That's right: this isn't an all-wheel drive model at all, but the lukewarm performance combined with a 0 to 62 mph launch time of 6.8 seconds is enough for a 286-mile range in the WLTP standard.

And these stats perhaps answer why this model isn't offered stateside at all: the EPA range could seem on the mild side given the price, and the lack of all-wheel drive capability could limit its sales potential as well. The price, however, would still be analogous to a very well-equipped BMW sport utility, as this electric model starts at a sobering 67,300 euros with the ever-popular VAT, which translates to about $78,950 before any incentives.


The iX3 has received a mild refresh front and back for 2022, ahead of the start of production in a matter of weeks. BMWJust how much longer such a model will remain competitive in Europe and China is an open question, so perhaps it's best to think of it as a transitional, bench-warmer model before a fresh crop of battery-electric models arrive in all SUV segments.

BMW will begin production of this updated iX3 in Shenyang, China, starting next month, having set up a joint venture with automaker Brilliance Automotive. The updated iX3 will be produced there for the Chinese domestic market and for exports to Europe, BMW notes.

If the iX3 still seems familiar to you even though this model is not bound for North America, you're probably thinking of the very different yet similarly named iX. That particular battery-electric SUV is indeed on its way here next year, alongside the i4 Gran Coupe, with a lot more range and power yet very similar pricing to the iX3, landing just north of $80,000. The iX was designed solely as a battery-electric model, and will feature very distinct exterior styling, along with a more generous footprint. The SUV will arrive stateside in early 2022.

The BMW iX3 demonstrates that automakers can build a car in just about any powertrain configuration one could wish for. It can be had with a gasoline engine, a diesel, a hybrid, or a fully electric version. It only lacks a hydrogen-powered model to complete the array of powertrain options on the market today. But let us focus on the BMW iX3, the electric X3 and the first electric SUV from BMW.
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BMW's iX3 comes in a rear-wheel-drive configuration only. That is traditional for BMW but somewhat unexpected for a model of the X series, which used to mean that the vehicles in this line-up had xDrive all-wheel-drive as standard. Not the case for years now, but the iX3 raises the stakes by not even offering AWD as an option.

From the outside, it is easy to spot the BMW iX3, as it comes with a few extra ornaments that are finished in a particular shade of blue, and the front grille is closed off. The front and rear bumpers also have a slightly different design, but that is about it. Mind you, the blue accents are optional, so keep that in mind if you plan to order one.

On the inside, just a few elements tell you that you are, in fact, in an electric X3, not in a combustion-engined model. Otherwise, the BMW iX3 feels just like an X3, but without its combustion engine. Those who are familiar with BMWs will appreciate this aspect the most, especially if they already own one and want the iX3 as their second or third car.

From an ergonomic standpoint, the BMW iX3 gets a good score, as the German SUV has controls that are easy to use and understand. The screen on the dash does have touch controls, but you can skip those and use the iDrive instead, which operates flawlessly. The controls for volume, climate, and other relevant functions are handled through buttons, not touchscreens.

So, what is it like to drive? An extremely short answer would be, “just like a BMW X3.” That may not mean that much to those who have not driven an X3, right? Let us walk you through how the BMW iX3 is like to drive.

The steering system is adjusted for comfort, as it does not need too much force to operate. It has a certain weight to it, and that reminds us of many other BMW models, so you could say it is specific to the brand.

There is adequate feedback for the driver, but the level of feedback offered is just that. Some might consider it to be numbed, but it all depends on what it is compared to. After all, this is an SUV, not a car with sporty ambitions or anything.


The suspension of the BMW iX3 does a good job of hiding the extra weight brought by the batteries, although it is not that heavy when compared to a conventionally powered model or a hybrid X3. Thankfully for BMW, the extra weight is in the floor of the vehicle, which means that it lowered the center of gravity, and made things more manageable.

The brakes feel adequate for the power level offered and the weight of the vehicle, even though the electric motor does most of the slowing down. The transition between regenerative and hydraulic braking is almost imperceptible to the average user.

Regarding the powertrain, the BMW iX3 is only offered with a single electric motor, which powers the rear wheels. With 286 PS (281 hp) and 400 Nm (295 lb.-ft), you cannot say it is underpowered. BMW lets the e-motor do its thing, even if it is not in Sport mode. When the latter is selected, you feel the full might of the iX3.

The BMW iX3 uses a current-excited synchronous motor, which works without magnets, thus eliminating the need for rare earth metals in its construction, as the manufacturer notes. That fact might be related to the following, which is that the BMW iX3 is very good at coasting.

Once you take your foot off the accelerator and have the car in D instead of B, the German SUV does a fine job at keeping its speed. You then just need to gently press the right pedal to maintain your desired speed, which comes at rather low energy consumption, as you can observe on the digital gauge cluster.

As for the estimated range, BMW's iX3 has a maximum range of 453 kilometers (281 miles) in the WLTP cycle, with an average energy consumption of 18.9 kWh/100 km (62 miles). We started our drive with the battery charged at 96 percent, and the car displayed a range of 332 kilometers (206 miles).

After 125 kilometers (77 miles), most of which was done on the highway, the iX3 had an average energy consumption of 21.6 kWh/100 km (62 miles). The remaining range was 208 kilometers (129 miles) after that section.


To be fair, we must note that we did a few sprints from normal highway speeds to a bit more, but nothing too crazy and without jeopardizing anyone's safety. The iX3 proved to be quick, even if you ask it to accelerate hard while driving at 62 mph (100 kph) or more. It just does it, and it does not feel slow in any way.

From that point on, we drove on national roads that occasionally went through cities, and some of those roads were downhill, as opposed to the first section, which was slightly uphill when it was not entirely flat.

We stopped our drive after 276 kilometers (171 miles), which were done with an average energy consumption of 19.5 kWh/100 km (62 miles), and an average speed of 68 kph (42 mph).

Our battery still had a charge of 22 percent when we stopped, which the car estimated to be enough for another 88 kilometers (54 miles) in the same driving conditions.

The BMW iX3's range is more than reasonable for a day-to-day commute, even for those who live outside the city they work in. However, it is not as high as one might expect from a car in this segment, with this size, and at this price point. BMW does offer a larger electric SUV, the iX, which caters to this requirement.

Even without the extra range of the iX, the BMW iX3 does a good job at being an SUV and provides a sporty drive when requested. Otherwise, it is quiet, although you can notice wind noise at speeds of over 62 mph (100 kph). The latter would also be experienced in a conventional vehicle, but the lack of engine noise in an electric vehicle makes every sound easier to notice.

BMW presents the first series-produced Neue Klasse model. The new-generation BMW iX3 is a fully electric Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV) that gives customers their first on-the-road taste of a whole new era of Sheer Driving Pleasure. An all-new design language gives the car a character-rich appearance that faithfully conveys the technological progress made by the new model. With sixth-generation BMW eDrive technology, a range of up to 805 kilometres (500 miles) and a peak charging rate of 400 kW, the new BMW iX3 sets new standards for efficiency and longdistance capability. A new electronics and software architecture including four "superbrain" high-performance computers makes the first Neue Klasse model more intelligent and better equipped for the future than ever. The "Heart of Joy" drivetrain and driving dynamics management technology enables unmatched handling dynamism and precision, while the latest systems for automated driving optimise symbiotic human-vehicle interaction.

A defining element of the digital user experience in the new BMW iX3 is BMW Panoramic iDrive, which elevates intuitive operation and the driver focus for which the brand is renowned to a new level. And an all-encompassing sustainability concept reduces the car's product carbon footprint over its life cycle by more than 30 per cent compared to its predecessor.

The first Neue Klasse model will be built at the newly constructed BMW Group plant in Debrecen, Hungary. The first variant of the fully electric SAV to roll off the production line from autumn 2025 will be the BMW iX3 50 xDrive with an output of 345 kW/469 hp and electric all-wheel drive. Further fully electric variants will follow, including an entry-level model. The market launch of the new BMW iX3 will get underway in Europe in spring 2026 and in the USA in summer 2026. Also starting in summer 2026 will be deliveries of a variant of the new BMW iX3 produced at the Shenyang facility that has been tailored specifically to the needs and desires of customers in China.

The new BMW iX3 represents a leap forward in development over its predecessor of the same name that extends well beyond the reaches of a conventional model renewal. The advances made in terms of design and technology create the impression that a complete vehicle generation has been skipped. For the BMW Group, the launch of the new BMW iX3 also represents a milestone in the transformation process when it comes to electrification, digitalisation and circularity. Spearheading the arrival of the Neue Klasse, it offers customers the latest design and technology innovations, which will shape the brand's entire model range moving forwards. The technologies of the Neue Klasse will be incorporated into a total of 40 new models and model updates between now and 2027.

"The Neue Klasse is our biggest future project and marks a huge leap in terms of technologies, driving experience and design," says Oliver Zipse, Chairman of the Board of Management of BMW AG. "Practically everything about it is new, yet it is also more BMW than ever. Our entire product range will benefit from the innovations of the Neue Klasse - regardless of the drive technology. What started as a bold vision has now become reality: the BMW iX3 is the first Neue Klasse model to go into series production. We are not only bringing the next generation of one of our most successful fully electric vehicles onto the road, we are launching a new era for BMW."

Launch of the new design language: reduced, characterful and timeless

Major technological advances always offer an opportunity to introduce more significant design changes. The new BMW iX3 will launch the new BMW design language, which will be replicated across the whole of the brand's model range in due course. This new use of forms provides a very modern interpretation of BMW's original and enduring blueprint. The design is timeless while also capturing the prevailing zeitgeist. It is reduced to the essence of the BMW brand - and therefore more BMW than ever. For this one reason why comprehensive design protection has been registered for the new BMW design language used in the new BMW iX3. The new BMW iX3 showcases the values and qualities of the Neue Klasse within the template of an SAV. The first BMW X model of the new generation is all about interior space and a progressive lifestyle. At 4,782 millimetres in length, 1,895 millimetres wide and 1,635 millimetres tall, the new BMW iX3 has the hallmark proportions of an SAV. The characteristic two-box design is infused with the rugged presence of a BMW X model and has precise lines that emphasise all four wheels. Detail optimisation of the car's aerodynamics enables a drag coefficient (Cd) of 0.24.

The load compartment capacity of the new BMW iX3 can be increased from 520 to a maximum 1,750 litres by folding down the rear seat backrest elements as required. The additional storage compartment under the bonnet can hold another 58 litres of cargo. Customers needing additional transportation capacity can specify their car with the optional electric fold-in/fold-out trailer tow hitch. The maximum trailer load of the new BMW iX3 50 xDrive is 2,000 kilograms.

The upright front end and clearly formed surfaces endows the new BMW iX3 with considerable presence. The BMW kidneys and twin headlights - both distinctive BMW design cues - take centre stage visually. The sculpted BMW kidneys reference the Neue Klasse of the 1960s in their vertical arrangement. An all-new light signature assumes the role previously performed by chrome in giving the car an aura of quality and sophistication. And when viewed from the side, large surfaces broken up by a small number of precise lines create a character-rich appearance. Flush glass surfaces and door handles are also features of the side view. The robust stature of the new BMW iX3 is underscored by body-colour wheel arches with - in familiar BMW X model style - subtly rectangular contours. The rear end also cuts a powerful and athletic figure. The taillights extending well into the centre of the rear end represent a horizontal interpretation of the signature BMW "L" shape.

Sixth-generation BMW eDrive technology: higher efficiency, more range, faster charging

The sixth-generation BMW eDrive technology developed for the Neue Klasse comprises highly efficient electric motors, fundamentally new high-voltage batteries with cylindrical cells, and 800V technology. The BMW iX3 50 xDrive is powered by two electric motors, which together generate output of 345 kW/469 hp and 645 Nm (475 lb-ft) of torque. It accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 4.9 seconds and reaches a top speed of 210 km/h (130 mph). Its electric all-wheel-drive configuration consists of an extensively upgraded electrically excited synchronous motor (EESM) with particularly high levels of efficiency at the rear axle and, at the front axle, a new asynchronous motor (ASM) distinguished by its compact design and high cost efficiency. The combination of EESM and ASM is evidence of the BMW Group's commitment to technological neutrality within electric mobility as well. The drive technology developed for the Neue Klasse reduces energy losses by 40 per cent compared to fifth-generation BMW eDrive technology, weight by 10 per cent and manufacturing costs by 20 per cent.

The new high-voltage battery concept with cylindrical cells for the Neue Klasse also achieves significant advances. The energy density on a cell level is 20 per cent higher than with fifth-generation BMW eDrive technology, and the new concept also paves the way for a 30 per cent increase in charging speed. The cylindrical cells are integrated directly into the high-voltage battery ("cell to pack"), which benefits energy density and cost efficiency. Added to which, the high-voltage battery is integrated into the vehicle architecture as a structural component to minimise weight ("pack to open body"). The high-voltage battery in the BMW iX3 50 xDrive has a usable energy content of 108.7 kWh, enabling a range of up to 805 kilometres (500 miles) in the WLTP cycle.

BMW Charging: short charging times, premiere for bidirectional charging

The advances brought by sixth-generation BMW eDrive technology have a significant influence on the charging experience, too. A maximum charging rate of 400 kW enables users to fill their new BMW iX3 with enough energy at an 800V direct current (DC) rapid charging station to add up to 372 kilometres (231 miles) of range in just ten minutes. The high-voltage battery can charge from 10 to 80 per cent capacity in 21 minutes. Thanks to the battery management tech with integrated switching matrix developed completely in-house by the BMW Group, the new BMW iX3 can also be charged from 400V DC stations. Upgrades to the battery preparation also help to shorten charging times. The new BMW iX3 50 xDrive can top up on alternating current (AC) at 11 kW as standard or 22 kW as an option.

Extensive bidirectional charging functions are also available for the new BMW iX3, meaning that it can be used as an energy supply source for a variety of applications. The Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) function turns the new BMW iX3 into a mobile powerbank, which can supply electric devices with power while on the move. Vehicle-to-Home (V2H) hands it the role of storage unit for solar energy generated by home-fitted photovoltaic systems. And customers can also hook their car up to the energy market via the Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G) application and earn some money in the process.

The selection of standard-fitted and optional charging accessories has been significantly expanded. For flexible charging during a journey, customers can make use of the new Multifunction Charger, which comes with several adapters for charging and discharging the high-voltage battery. The new BMW Wallbox Professional (DC) enables bidirectional charging at home or work. And BMW Charging offers the option of cost-optimised /solar-power-optimised home charging. Emblematic of the charging experience in this new vehicle generation is the intelligent charging flap of the new BMW iX3, which uses artificial intelligence (AI) to detect the customer's intention to top up their car and then automatically opens or closes. And sixth-generation BMW eDrive technology makes it possible to view the current charging speed and curve in the My BMW App. Up to ten individual charging contracts from various suppliers can be shown digitally inside the new BMW iX3, enabling use of the Plug & Charge Multi Contract function.

Heart of Joy: Sheer Driving Pleasure reaches a new level

One of four "superbrains" in the electronics architecture of the Neue Klasse, the Heart of Joy looks after drivetrain and driving dynamics management. This highperformance control unit is responsible for the drivetrain, brakes, energy recuperation and steering subfunctions, and processes information up to ten times faster than conventional control units. In this way, the potential of electric mobility in terms of instantaneous power delivery, smooth power transfer, agility, stability and efficiency is utilised to the full.

Together with the BMW Dynamic Performance Control software stack developed fully in-house, the Heart of Joy calculates all the driving dynamics parameters with a new level of speed and precision. Here, the decades of experience of BMW in the field of driving dynamics control come to the fore. The driver and passengers in the new BMW iX3 experience a uniquely harmonious and BMW-typical driving feeling whatever the situation and speed. Every movement of the accelerator, brake pedal and steering is executed directly and with assurance and precision. Supreme traction and - thanks to the unique Soft Stop function - the smoothest stopping process ever achieved by a BMW are among its other attributes. In addition, the efficiency of the new BMW iX3 is optimised by the integrated management of drivetrain, braking system and energy recuperation. In everyday driving, 98 per cent of braking manoeuvres are carried out using recuperation only, i.e. without application of the friction brakes.

New electronics architecture with four "superbrains"

The completely newly developed electronics architecture comprises a total of four high-performance computers known as "superbrains". They pool their processing power for driving dynamics, automated driving, infotainment and basic & comfortenhancing functions. They also provide the basis for a new software architecture that can be continuously upgraded and is therefore designed to incorporate upcoming function updates including AI features.

The new digital nervous system consists of a wiring harness divided into four zones. This reduces weight by 30 per cent compared to the technology used previously and allows for around 600 metres less wiring. Another new feature are digital "smart eFuses", which replace classical safety fuses. They enable intelligent power modes for different vehicle states that help to improve the car's overall efficiency.

With its four superbrains and highly connected software platforms, the BMW iX3 is a true software-defined vehicle and exceptionally well equipped for the future. Added to which, the new electronics architecture forms the basis for multifaceted improvements in the networking of the BMW iX3 with the My BMW App. This new level of quality when it comes to integration delivers new experiences and holds considerable potential for future innovations.

New metallic paint finishes, exclusively for the BMW iX3

The BMW iX3 will be available from launch with a choice of one solid and five metallic paint finishes, including the Polarized Grey metallic and Ocean Wave Blue metallic available for the first time and exclusively for the fully electric SAV. Another three metallic paint finishes will be added to the range of colours in spring 2026.

Newly designed seats, four interior worlds to choose from

The newly designed seats in the new BMW iX3 offer high levels of comfort over long distances, strong lateral support and a wide range of adjustment. Thick seat cushions extending a long way downwards and the absence, to a large extent, of plastic trim give the seats an elegant appearance. With their distinctive contours, the head restraints also play their part in the progressive style of the interior design. The control panels for the electric seat adjustment are integrated into the door trim panels. The rear seat bench has a single, sofa-like seat surface. And the new BMW iX3 comes with electrically powered door openers in both the front and rear, the controls for which are located directly aft of the window buttons on the pull handles.

The centre console between the driver and front passenger seat - complete with storage compartments and control elements - also has a totally new design. The storage area underneath the armrest houses a 12V power supply. In the front section of the centre console is a storage space with an inductive charging function, two USB-C ports and room for a second mobile phone, plus two cup holders separated by a triangular illuminated trim element. Behind it are the gear selector lever, a roller switch for adjusting the audio system volume and the physical buttons for the parking brake, rear window heating, windscreen defrosting and hazard warning lights. Below the centre console, a storage space with indirect illumination offers additional space for stowing items.

The meticulously curated interior worlds give every equipment package an unmistakable character all of its own. The choice of materials and the colour scheme are inspired by modern interior design and the advanced technology of the Neue Klasse. An attractive and extensive range of colours ensures the interior shades and exterior paint finishes are perfectly coordinated. The Essential interior world, which comes as standard, features seat surfaces in Econeer - a surface material made from recyclable secondary material - in the shade Vivid Grey. With the optional Contemporary world, the seat and interior surfaces in Veganza (a material with leather-like characteristics) can be ordered in the colour variants Black, Digital White and Castanea. The optional M Sport package can also be combined with Contemporary trim or a BMW Individual trim option and includes black seat surfaces in the Veganza/M PerformTex combination. Customers can also specify the BMW Individual interior world with a high-quality Merino leather/M PerformTex combination in Black Bicolour or Adelaide Grey.

Available from launch: the M Sport package and M Sport package Pro

The new BMW iX3 can be ordered immediately from launch with an M Sport package as an option. Accentuating the SAV's dynamic aura are special exterior design features including a two-section front apron, air-guiding elements near the front wheels, two-tone painted side skirts, exterior mirror caps bearing the M logo, a particularly pronounced diffuser element and vertically arranged reflectors in the rear apron.

Also part of the M Sport package are 20-inch M light-alloy wheels in double-spoke design, an M Sport braking system with blue-painted brake callipers and an exterior mirror projection for the welcome and goodbye sequence, which displays the M logo. Accentuating the car's sporting character inside are a sports steering wheel, M pedals, an M-specific trim element between the cup holders, black seat surfaces in Veganza/M PerformTex, the instrument panel covered in a combination of black M PerformTex and anthracite-coloured cloth, plus M-specific content in the Central Display and BMW Panoramic Vision.

The M Sport package Pro then adds features including illuminated BMW kidneys with a black surround, exterior mirror caps, and a diffuser element at the rear, likewise in black. On cars specified with the M Sport package Pro, the M Sport braking system also brings red brake callipers. Inside the cabin, M seats in black Veganza/M PerformTex, an M steering wheel and M seat belts fuel the richly engaging driving pleasure on offer in the new BMW iX3. Further colour and equipment variants for the new iX3 will be made available over the course of the next year.

The load compartment of the new BMW iX3 has a capacity of 520 litres, or up to 1,750 litres with the rear seat backrest elements folded down. Together with the 58-litre storage space under the bonnet, this makes the new iX3 a great option for longer trips away as well. If the optional electric fold-in/fold-out trailer tow hitch is specified, the new BMW iX3 50 xDrive has a maximum trailer load of 2,000 kilograms.

BMW Digital Premium: the complete, flexible package of extensive security functions, extended navigation features and unlimited entertainment

BMW Operating System X has brought about major enhancements to the BMW Digital Premium offering over the preceding generation. For the first time, the package now includes a Security Assistant, comprising a host of useful functions for giving the customer greater peace of mind. Attempted thefts and parking knocks will trigger push notifications in the My BMW App, for instance. And in the event of an accident, the BMW Drive Recorder instantly makes exterior footage of what happened available in the car, which can then be exported to a mobile phone. The anti-theft and parking collision recorder likewise makes automatic video recordings. The optional Remote Inside and Remote 3D View functions additionally allow customers to take a glance inside their BMW iX3 and check its immediate vicinity using the My BMW App. The extended range of functions included with BMW Digital Premium makes for even better navigation using BMW Maps:

• High traffic volumes on roads that aren't on the active route are also marked in colour on the map.
• 3D and satellite views: high-resolution 3D and satellite views can also be selected for the navigation map.
• Known speed checks or other traffic checks such as red light cameras are added to the navigation map (not available in all countries).
• Precise lane visualisation in BMW Maps: precise and realistic visualisation of traffic lanes facilitates navigation guidance when dealing with complex road layouts in cities.
• Proactive Navigation: the system learns places that are driven to regularly and can be set to send automated push notifications in the My BMW App in advance if there are unusually long delays on the route.
• More efficient parking searches: the sensor technology aboard the connected BMW fleet is used to provide on-street parking information and parking suggestions. The current occupancy of many parking facilities is additionally indicated on the map.

The data required for entertainment functions is included with BMW Digital Premium, meaning there is no need for customers to provide a data connection by using a smartphone as a hotspot or signing in to a Wi-Fi network. What's more, the 5G-ready vehicle telematics system ensures the best possible streaming speed at all times.

BMW Digital Premium offers customers who equip their BMW iX3 with the M Sport package three further M-specific in-car apps. These provide access to technical vehicle signals and driving dynamics data as well as additional media content. The M Cockpit app allows the customer to create an individually configured dashboard with real-time data, while the M Drag Meter provides a measurement of the vehicle's acceleration. And the M Channel offers motor racing videos along with exclusive insights into the world of BMW M.

Thermal management creates optimum conditions for battery and electric motors

Unlike vehicles with combustion engines, electric motors give off little heat due to their high efficiency. BMW therefore employs various mechanisms to keep the battery operating under optimum conditions at all times. These include, most notably, the system of thermal management, which involves highly complex interaction between various systems in battery electric vehicles. Orchestrating this interaction is of decisive importance for a series of performance parameters, such as range, power output and charging time. It is a question of constantly keeping the temperature of the high-voltage battery, electric motor and power electronics in the optimum range, while maintaining standards of comfort in the car's interior at the same time.

Efficient thermal management is particularly important for fast charging: here, the battery temperature must be kept within a defined window in order to make optimum use of the available charging capacity. This means that, depending on the operating state, battery and passenger cell have to be not just cooled, but heated, too.

The electric motors for the BMW Gen6 drive technology

The BMW Group has retained the principle of an electrically excited synchronous motor (EESM) for its Gen6 power unit. In this type of synchronous motor, the rotor's magnetic field is generated by an excitation current from an external source rather than permanent magnets. As with the Gen5 version, the synchronous motor is integrated into the rear axle and features a compact housing incorporating the electric drive unit, power electronics and transmission.