BMW iX3
The first mass-produced model of the “Neue Klasse”
The new iX3 will be introduced to the market as the first mass-produced vehicle in BMW’s new generation model series, the Neue Klasse.
The all-electric iX3 SUV, the first mass-market model in BMW’s new Neue Klasse product range, is currently in the final stages of development, with the final prototype of the new iX3 undergoing extensive testing in Miramas, southern France, under heavy camouflage.
The sixth-generation fully electric powertrain, “Gen6,” introduced with the new iX3, is said to have made significant advances in both performance and efficiency. The “iX3 50 xDrive” achieves a maximum driving range of 800 km (WLTP standard), and a 10-minute charge can provide a maximum driving range of over 350 km. The cockpit’s “BMW Panoramic iDrive” display and operation concept projects information to the full left and right, ensuring perfect visibility for the driver.
The new iX3 is scheduled to have its world premiere at the IAA Mobility 2025, which will be held in Munich, Germany from September 9th to 14th, 2025, and production will start at the new BMW Group plant in Debrecen, Hungary from the end of 2025. Mike Reichelt, Head of BMW Neue Klasse, had this to say about the new iX3:
“Longer range, faster charging, a completely new display and operating concept and the intelligence of four super brains are the defining features of the Neue Klasse. As the first model in the new generation series, the new BMW iX3 takes typical BMW driving pleasure to a new level.”
“The new iX3 introduces BMW’s revolutionary technology for the first time in a series-produced vehicle, and I personally can’t wait to experience it on the road. All future BMW models, regardless of powertrain, will benefit from the innovations and technologies of the Neue Klasse.”
Equipped with a new cylindrical battery cell
The sixth-generation “Gen6” full-electric system uses a cylindrical battery instead of the conventional prismatic type, improving energy density by 20%, and achieving a maximum driving range of 800 km.
This time, the fully electric powertrain “BMW eDrive technology” has evolved into the sixth generation “Gen6.” The high-voltage battery concept has been completely redesigned, and combined with an improved electric drive system, it has achieved high-level driving performance and an unprecedented driving range. After being first installed in the iX3, the “Gen6” system is scheduled to be rolled out to all segments.
The BMW Cylindrical Battery Cell, the core technology of the high-voltage battery, has a 20% higher energy density than the prismatic battery cells used up until now. Cylindrical cells are integrated into the high-voltage battery system and play an important role in the body structure of the Neue Klasse models.
The top-of-the-line model delivers a maximum output of 400kW (543PS). 800V technology enables unprecedented levels of rapid charging, with a 10-minute charge providing a driving range of up to 350km (WLTP). The high energy density of the high-voltage battery, combined with the efficient design of the powertrain and the entire vehicle, enables a driving range of up to 800km (WLTP).
New computer “Heart of Joy”
The new iX3 is equipped with a new central computer called “Heart of Joy,” which processes information from all components 10 times faster.
The new iX3 is equipped with a completely new central computer, the Heart of Joy control unit, which, in combination with BMW Dynamic Performance Control software, provides integrated control of the powertrain, brakes, recuperation system and steering system.
Information about each component is processed 10 times faster than with conventional systems, resulting in a more direct response to driver inputs. Fewer control inputs result in more stable vehicle directional stability. The system boasts more consistent and repeatable cornering performance, enabling more intuitive control than ever before.
With Heart of Joy, the powertrain and braking systems work in perfect harmony to safely slow the vehicle, using regenerative braking at all speeds to bring it to a stop without the use of friction brakes in 98% of cases, without noise or impact.
