Is the BMW iX3 redefining the SUV class with its innovative features and performance?
Crushing Competition with the BMW iX3: A New Era of Automotive Excellence
By Patrick Broich, Miramas
This revival of BMW's "Neue Klasse" label doesn't just turned heads; it's a heavy load of expectation on the company's shoulders. We had the chance to test drive the upcoming iX3 SUV in development stages and it's clear that BMW isn't shying away from the challenge.
The excitement among BMW engineers is palpable, given they've been working tirelessly to bring this electric platform to life. With the pressure mounting, they've got to hit a home run as the world watches – Europe's car buyers are skeptical of electric drives, China is bombarding the market with innovative electric vehicles, and even the US market lacks stability due to tariffs and other issues [1]. All while making a profit.
BMW can't afford to mess up with its latest electric car. Starting with the mid-size SUV, this segment is booming, providing them with the perfect opportunity to make a splash. Initially, we might only get access to the iX3 through its design, but for now, it remains camouflaged during our early-phase testing. Instead, we dove headfirst into an intensive course on infotainment, technology, and control systems.
Driving is still joyful with the iX3
Keen observers may have noticed a sneak peek during the demonstration of the new interface design on the central touchscreen. As if by magic, a quite realistic graphic of the completely uncamouflaged iX3 suddenly appeared. BMW can be thankful that photographic memories are rare. But anticipation is delightful, especially in the context of the Neue Klasse. The "Band" display called Panoramic iDrive, spanning from the instrument panel to the windshield, is a digital native's delight and can be customized to display various preferences such as music stations or altitude [1].
But the real adventure begins when testing the driving dynamics control systems. Off to the test track for some cornering! The iX3 handles curves with a surprising lightness and curious precision. Anyone criticizing electric vehicles for lacking emotion could find solace here. Drivers with a competitive spirit may find themselves forgetting they're behind the wheel of an electric car, captivated by the lateral dynamics of the iX3. Sounds outrageous? It's not [1].
Look out for that rear swing!
Any motorist who challengingly provokes a rear swing through heavy load changes will inevitably find themselves caught, whether it's sooner or later depending on the driving mode. In "Sport" mode, the steering becomes noticeably stiffer and more responsive. It's all a matter of personal preference [1]. The experience is capped off by a well-measured, precise brake, most of its effect generated by recuperation to convert kinetic energy back into electricity. With a delightful touch, the system modulates the braking torque until the vehicle comes to a stop at a traffic light, avoiding the infamous jolt [1].
Electronic marvels at the heart of the Neue Klasse
BMW calls it the "Heart of Joy," and that's exactly what it is: the electronic nervous system of the platform, consolidated in four control units [1]. This nod to critics who envy Tesla's famous untangling of complexity in control systems is welcome – a single central heart like the Americans have would have been impossible for BMW given the multitude of functions [1]. Speaking of dynamics: The iX3 is electrifying on winding country roads.
Rapid recharge for your adventures
A brief stop at the charging station confirms that the new round-cell battery (with a 20% higher energy density than before) takes in electricity at a breathtaking speed [1]. Maybe we were privileged to experience optimized conditions - tempered battery and perfectly buffered charging station - but such charging performance is not out of reach for a well-designed 800-volt system [1]. We'll find out in future practical tests.
Assistance at your fingertips
The iX3 is packed with cutting-edge assistance features. The simplified automatic parking system is particularly noteworthy, as drivers can now position themselves quite freely in front of a potential parking spot—a small crook or offset is no problem [1]. The superbrain takes over from there, guiding the mid-size car into the space—even if it's in multiple stages [1].
There are still a few points to discuss – we'll have to wait for more details on the battery's electricity intake capacity and the vehicle's top speed. The same goes for the variants that will be available, including the tantalizing possibility of an M version [1]. Interested parties will get to see the unveiled vehicle for the first time in September at the IAA Mobility [1].
Sources:1. ntv.de2. BMW Models
Insights:- The advanced driver assistance system in the iX3 combines robust lane change warnings, road priority alerts, and safe exit systems, making driving more convenient and safe [2].- The system allows drivers to influence the assistant at any time without deactivating it, ensuring a seamless transition between cooperative steering and cooperative braking [2].- The iX3 also features a decentralized control system, reducing wiring and increasing efficiency [2].- The infotainment system supports augmented reality navigation and offers a 3D head-up display and a unique “free-cut” trapezoidal shaped center touchscreen [2].- The electric drivetrain, combined with advanced chassis tuning, offers responsive acceleration and precise handling [3].- The iX3 is expected to offer up to 400 miles of range, positioning it among the top electric SUVs in its class for efficiency [2].
[1] Available from [ntv.de][2] Available from [BMW Models][3] BMW Unveiled Neue Klasse Platform for Electric Vehicles - 2020 [ Environmental XPRT News]
- The BMW iX3, a key player in the transport of persons motor vehicles segment, is set to revolutionize the automotive industry, considering the increasing demand for electric vehicles in Europe, China, and the US.
- BMW engineers are working diligently to ensure the iX3's financial success, given the competitive market, especially China's market flooded with innovative electric vehicles.
- The iX3's central control system, termed as the "Heart of Joy", consolidates four control units, a step towards simplifying complex control systems, mirroring the Tesla model.
- The iX3 boasts cutting-edge technology, such as an automatic parking system that allows drivers to position themselves freely before the system takes over the parking maneuvers.
