Munich. BMW i is preparing to launch the next
generation of solely electrically powered models. Three of the brand’s
electric models are currently going through a key phase of their
series development process at the BMW Group’s winter test centre in
Arjeplog, Sweden. Together with the BMW iX3 already due to go on sale
next year, the BMW i4 and the BMW iNEXT, being brought to market in
2021, are also completing an intensive test programme. Within the
framework of comprehensive vehicle testing, their drive and suspension
components are being put to the test under extreme weather and road
conditions. The testing area situated at the edge of the Arctic Circle
provides the ideal requirements for this purpose. On the icy surfaces
of frozen lakes, on snow and in the bitter cold, the electric motors,
the high-voltage batteries and the power electronics of BMW eDrive
technology as well as the suspension control systems are demonstrating
their high level of performance and reliability.
The latest chapter of the BMW Group electrification strategy will be
heralded by a Sports Activity Vehicle. Starting next year, the BMW iX3
will already feature the fifth generation of BMW eDrive technology for
the first time. An exceptionally powerful electric motor and a
high-voltage storage unit featuring state-of-the-art battery cell
technology facilitate purely electric driving pleasure in a new
dimension. With a range of over 400 kilometres* and the possibility to
use DC charging stations with a capacity of 150 kW to charge its
battery, the first all-electric SAV is ideally suitable for day-to-day
use and long-distance travel. The BMW iX3 will be the first model
produced for the entire global market by the BMW Brilliance Automotive
Joint Venture at the Chinese production location in Shenyang.
The BMW i4 delivers locally emission-free driving pleasure combined
with outstanding sportiness. The four-door coupe positioned in the
premium midrange segment combines a dynamic design with inspiring
performance and a high level of ride comfort. Fifth-generation BMW
eDrive technology featured by the BMW i4 facilitates a range of over
600 kilometres*. Moreover, the electric motor’s spontaneous power
development can be utilised above all to achieve a dynamic driving
experience. The BMW i4 sprints from a standstill to 100 km/h in a mere
4 seconds and reaches a top speed of over 200 km/h. The BMW i4 will be
produced at the BMW Munich plant starting 2021.
With the proportions and dimensions of a luxury Sports Activity
Vehicle, a fifth-generation electric drive unit and systems for highly
automated driving, the BMW iNEXT embodies the future of driving
pleasure in a particularly comprehensive way. As the BMW Group’s
future modular construction system, it combines the latest innovations
in the areas of design, automated driving, connectivity,
electrification and services (D+ACES) defined by the NUMBER ONE
NEXT corporate strategy. BMW eDrive ensures a range exceeding
600 kilometres*. Furthermore, the car is equipped with the latest
connectivity features and designed for Level 3 automated driving. The
BMW Group’s new technology flagship will be produced at the BMW
Dingolfing plant as from 2021.