BMW is betting big on its new iX3 electric SUV, and it's clear that the German automaker has put a significant amount of effort into making this car a top contender in the market. The iX3 represents the first major investment from BMW in its new modular EV platform, known as "Neue Klasse," which boasts significant improvements over its predecessor.
The Neue Klasse range uses the sixth generation of BMW's eDrive technology, featuring higher nickel and less cobalt content for a 20% increase in energy density. This results in a more efficient electric architecture that boosts charging speeds by a third, with up to 400 kilowatts and 200 miles added in just 10 minutes in ideal conditions. The claimed efficiency is an impressive 4.1 m/kWh.
But what truly sets the iX3 apart is its new central computer brain, dubbed the "heart of joy" or HoJ, which governs all dynamic functions like braking and stability, traction control systems, and steering. This single processor reduces lag to just one millisecond, making the car feel incredibly responsive. The HoJ also enables predictive handling, allowing the iX3 to adapt to changing conditions instantly.
The driving experience is where the iX3 truly shines. The car feels surprisingly light and agile, with a smooth and responsive ride that belies its 2,300 kg weight. Pushing the limits reveals impressive handling capabilities, with the car seemingly taking everything in stride. The use of vehicle-to-load (V2L) technology allows for charging household appliances from the car, while vehicle-to-home (V2H) enables energy to be fed back into your house.
Inside, the iX3 boasts a revamped interior with an angular central screen and Panoramic iDrive display that removes the need for a driver display. However, customization options are limited, with BMW not allowing third-party apps like CarPlay or phone notifications on the display. The voice assistant, Alexa, also falls short, canceling navigation when asked to move it.
BMW is confident in its new platform, and with good reason. The iX3's range of 400 miles exceeds that of many rivals, including the Audi Q6 e-tron, Cadillac Lyriq, Porsche Macan Electric, and revised Tesla Model Y. The Neue Klasse platform also bodes well for future models, including the upcoming i3.
However, there remains a significant challenge: can BMW compete with China EVs coming in at significantly lower prices? The answer may lie in autonomous technology, which the Chinese market is pushing aggressively. But BMW's driving dynamics wizardry offers a unique selling point that could set it apart.
Ultimately, the iX3 represents a bold bet from BMW on its new modular EV platform and the Neue Klasse technology. With impressive performance, advanced features, and a focus on efficiency, this car has everything to make it a strong contender in the market.
The Neue Klasse range uses the sixth generation of BMW's eDrive technology, featuring higher nickel and less cobalt content for a 20% increase in energy density. This results in a more efficient electric architecture that boosts charging speeds by a third, with up to 400 kilowatts and 200 miles added in just 10 minutes in ideal conditions. The claimed efficiency is an impressive 4.1 m/kWh.
But what truly sets the iX3 apart is its new central computer brain, dubbed the "heart of joy" or HoJ, which governs all dynamic functions like braking and stability, traction control systems, and steering. This single processor reduces lag to just one millisecond, making the car feel incredibly responsive. The HoJ also enables predictive handling, allowing the iX3 to adapt to changing conditions instantly.
The driving experience is where the iX3 truly shines. The car feels surprisingly light and agile, with a smooth and responsive ride that belies its 2,300 kg weight. Pushing the limits reveals impressive handling capabilities, with the car seemingly taking everything in stride. The use of vehicle-to-load (V2L) technology allows for charging household appliances from the car, while vehicle-to-home (V2H) enables energy to be fed back into your house.
Inside, the iX3 boasts a revamped interior with an angular central screen and Panoramic iDrive display that removes the need for a driver display. However, customization options are limited, with BMW not allowing third-party apps like CarPlay or phone notifications on the display. The voice assistant, Alexa, also falls short, canceling navigation when asked to move it.
BMW is confident in its new platform, and with good reason. The iX3's range of 400 miles exceeds that of many rivals, including the Audi Q6 e-tron, Cadillac Lyriq, Porsche Macan Electric, and revised Tesla Model Y. The Neue Klasse platform also bodes well for future models, including the upcoming i3.
However, there remains a significant challenge: can BMW compete with China EVs coming in at significantly lower prices? The answer may lie in autonomous technology, which the Chinese market is pushing aggressively. But BMW's driving dynamics wizardry offers a unique selling point that could set it apart.
Ultimately, the iX3 represents a bold bet from BMW on its new modular EV platform and the Neue Klasse technology. With impressive performance, advanced features, and a focus on efficiency, this car has everything to make it a strong contender in the market.