BMW Unveils iX3, First Neue Klasse EV With 805km Range and Fast Charging
On the sustainability front, BMW maintains it developed a 360-degree approach to everything from its supply chain systems, to production, product use and recycling
BMW seems to have entered a new realm when it comes to premium mobility which is marked by innovation, and revolutionary reinventions. With electrification on the forefront, the German auto giant has not only shown the world where its dedication lies ahead. Artificial intelligence, state-of-the-art connectivity, human-focused designs have now become a standard feature in all vehicles irrespective of their size and type. This thinking has even revolutionised driver-system engagement. The newly launched BMW iX3 is built on the new Neue Klasse platform offering a range of 805 kms.
What Is Neue Klasse Technology Platform?
Neue Klasse (new class) is not a new line up or a name that has just started to be used, it all started in 1962 with the production of BMW 1800 that was launched the following year. The front of the earliest Neue Klasse had round headlights (models with square lights came along later), a side profile resembling a shark’s nose and, most distinctively, a pair of vertical kidney grilles standing together at the centre.
The new iX3’s new gets four ‘superbrain’ high-performance computers with 20 times more processing power than previous generations. The vehicle’s Heart of Joy system controls driving characteristics in all conditions, while BMW Dynamic Performance Control software handles the drivetrain and driving dynamics together. Soft Stop, a novel function, allows for brake energy recuperation in 98% of everyday braking circumstances.
The BMW kidneys grille and twin headlights take inspiration from the Neue Klasse of the 1960s in their vertical arrangement. Glass surfaces and door handles are also features of the side view with body colour wheel arches in rectangular contours. The taillights extending well into the centre of the rear end represent a horizontal interpretation of the signature BMW “L” shape.
Advanced Charging and Range Capabilities
The sixth-generation BMW eDrive technology provides a maximum charging rate of 400 kW, and gives a range of 805 km. The high-voltage battery can charge from 10 to 80 per cent capacity in 21 minutes. 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. With a charging of just ten minutes, it can travel for 372 km, and can reach from 10% to 80% charge in 21 minutes.
Interior Design and Infotainment
Being mostly driver focussed, the interior has a minimal layout. The seats gets maximum comfort for long journeys and the rear bench offer a single, sofa like surface. Signature colour include Vivid Grey with Econeer seat coverings which can be further customised to Veganza, the black BMW M interior, Merino leather or M Perform Tex combination in Black Bicolour or Adelaide Grey.
This is the first car in the Neue Klasse range with an updated Panoramic iDrive system. It provides physical controls for the wipers, turn signal indicators, exterior mirrors, volume control, gear selector, parking brake, hazard warning lights, rear window heating and defrost function. Other functions have been optimised for use by touch and voice command or via the multifunction steering wheel.
Sustainability In Materials
Around one third of the new BMW iX3 is made from secondary raw materials. For example, the storage compartment under the front hatch and the engine compartment cover are made from 30% recycled marine plastic. The base material of the yarn for the Econeer seat textile, the textiled headliner, and the floor-mat carpet is made from 100% recycled polyethylene terephthalate (PET).
The car’s chassis and the wheel rims are made from aluminium and uses 80% secondary raw material especially for the swivel bearings and hub carriers. Both the chassis and the rims use secondary raw material content. Secondary raw material (SRM) content refers to the proportion of materials recovered from waste streams, such as waste plastics or recycled metals. These materials come from both industrial by-products and end-of-life products.
Powertrain
The BMW iX3 50 xDrive is powered by two electric motors offering 469 hp and 645 Nm of torque. It can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 4.9 seconds and can reach a top speed of 210 km/h. It uses a upgraded electric all-wheel-drive configuration consisting of an extensively upgraded Electrically Excited Synchronous Motor (EESM) at the rear axle and, at the front axle, a new Asynchronous Motor (ASM).
The new BMW iX3 will go on sale in Europe in the spring of 2026, followed by the United States in the summer. Production begins at the BMW factory in Debrecen, Hungary, which uses no fossil fuels under normal working conditions. BMW intends to include Neue Klasse technologies into 40 new cars and model revisions between now and 2027.