BMW presented for the world premiere the newest electric model of the brand, one that has long claims that it will change the rules in the electric segment. The car is part of the new Neue Klase family and will be produced in Debrecen, Hungary.
BMW has revealed to Munich the new generation BMW IX3, the fully electric version of the most popular SUV of the brand, X3. It was developed on a completely new platform, designed as a revolution of electric propulsion, to use the most advanced technologies available in the world.
At the center of the new Neue Klase platform are the latest generation batteries, which have been developed by the German company in their own centers to generate a maximum energy density and can be integrated into the chassis as ergonomic as possible.
In addition, all assistance, order and infotainment systems use the most powerful computers available in the automotive industry at the moment, to provide an experience that no car has offered so far.
Last but not least, the exterior and interior design has evolved in tune with technology, integrating the traditional details of the BMW brand into an ultra-modern architecture, with lights and aerodynamic surfaces.
“Neue Klasse is our largest avant -garde project and marks a huge progress in terms of technologies, driving experience and design,” said Oliver Zipse, the president of the Board of Directors of BMW AG, during the launch event. “Basically, everything is new and yet it is more BMW than ever. Our whole range of products will benefit from the innovations brought by Neue Klasse – regardless of the technology of the propulsion system.
What started as a bold vision has now become a reality: BMW IX3 is the first Neue Klasse model that enters the series production. Not only do we bring to the next generation of one of our most successful electric cars, but we launch a new era for BMW. “
Battery over 100 kWh
The main feature of the new IX3 is related to the battery: with an 800 -volt electric architecture, a useful capacity of 108.7 kWh and a autonomy exceeding 800 kilometers, the IX3 battery can be charged to stations up to 400 kW, which means that in only 10 minutes sufficient energy is charged for 372 km.
For the control of electronic and software architecture, four “superbins” computers have been used, which includes the “Heart of Joy” dynamic management and the propulsion system, while the autonomous driving assistance systems ensure “a symbiotic human-automobile interaction”.
An absolute novelty is also the new BMW Panoramic Idrive, the user interface that includes an extended head-up display throughout the car.
The first Neue Klase model will be built two steps in Romania, in the new BMW Group factory in Debrecen, Hungary.
The first version that will exit the production line starting this fall, will be the BMW IX3 50 xDrive, with a power of 345 kW/469 hp and electric integral traction provided by a two -engines system. The Bavarian builder confirms for the future and other electric propulsion versions, including an entry-level model, with an affordable price.
The launch of the new BMW IX3 will take place in Europe in the spring of next year, including Romania, and in the US in the summer of 2026.
Also, starting with the summer of 2026, a variant of the new BMW IX3 will be delivered, produced at the Shenyang factory, which has been specially adapted to the Chinese market.
BMW IX3 sizes and features
The dimensions of the new IX3 are typical for the average SUV segment, with a length of 4.78 meters, a width of 1.89 meters and a height of 1.63 meters. The optimization of the aerodynamic details of the car generated an aerodynamic coefficient of 0.24.
The boot capacity is 520 liters and can increase to a maximum of 1,750 liters by folding the banquet backrest. The additional storage compartment under the hood also offers a 58 -liter storage capacity. Customers who need an additional transport capacity can equip their car with a towing/electric folding system, optionally available. The maximum task of towing the new BMW IX3 50 XDRIVE is 2,000 kg.
The vertical front and the clearly formed surfaces give the new BMW IX3 a considerable presence. BMW grid and double headlights – both distinctive BMW design elements – occupy a central visual place. The carved BMW grid refers to Neue Klasse from the 1960s by the vertical arrangement. A completely new light signature takes over the role previously played by the chrome. The stops, which extend to the center of the rear, represent a horizontal interpretation of the characteristic “L” form.
The interior design of the car has a minimalist design, with a clear orientation towards the driver. The instrument panel, which leaves the impression that it floats, contributes to the minimalist and elegant atmosphere.
Since launch, the new BMW IX3 can be ordered optionally with the M Sport package or the M Sport Pro pack. Its dynamic appearance is additionally accentuated by the glossy black elements for the exterior, by the M Sport chairs and an inside steering wheel.
At the base of the BMW Panoramic Idrive system is the BMW X operating system, which also offers extensive personalization possibilities through BMW ID, smart driving assistance, a wide range of digital functions and extended connectivity using the MY BMW app.
The BMW Maps, available standard navigation system has an upgrade for the optimized route orientation, plus a smart coordinate presentation on BMW Panoramic Vision, Central Monitor and 3D Head-Up optional Display.
The BMW X operating system unlocks a wide range of entertainment functions during the trip and during upload stops, offering not only music streaming applications and Airconsole car games, but also a Disney+video streaming application and other video on Demand and Live platforms.
800 volti electric engines
The sixth generation of BMW Edrive electric propulsion technology, developed for Neue Klasse, includes a series of very efficient 800V electric motors and up to 400 kW charging power. The first launched, the BMW IX3 50 XDrive is propelled by two electric motors, which together generate a power of 345 kW/469 hp and a torque of 645 Nm. It accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 4.9 seconds and reaches a maximum speed of 210 km/h.
The electric integral traction configuration consists of a modernized electric motor (EESSM) with a very high level of efficiency, for the rear axle, respectively a new asynchronous engine (ASM), with compact design and high efficiency of production costs, on the front axle.
Neue Klasse’s propulsion technology reduces energy losses by 40%compared to BMW Edrive technology, 10%mass, and 20%manufacturing costs.
Standard specifications for the new BMW IX3 50 xDrive also include two -zone automatic air conditioning, Comfort and Digital Key Plus (with the use of mobile phone as a digital key and for car control, including for parking maneuvers), automatic tailgate, extended package of exterior mirrors, an alarm system and phone system wireless.
Other important optional features include three -zone automatic air conditioning, adaptive light control headlights, the BMW iconic Glow package, which includes the illuminated BMW grid, the Harman Kardon Hifi system, the steering wheel heating and a large panoramic hatch, whose climatic comfort windows have a solar filtration and a solar energy filter. 100%UV.
The price for Romania announced for the version that comes into production this fall will be 65 461 euros with VAT included (54 100 euros without VAT). Other cheaper versions will be launched in 2026 and later.
