BMW is presenting its new Concept iX3 at the 2018 Beijing Motor Show, which was first teased not too long ago. The all-electric SUV, or Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV) in BMW speak, is based on the G01 X3 but gets its own distinct styling which we will get to later.
Like the X3, the concept rides on the Cluster Architecture (CLAR) that is used on current models like the G11 7 Series and G30 5 Series, and will also feature in the next-generation G20 3 Series and G05 X5. BMW says the Concept iX3 showcases the versatility of the platform, which can accommodate a pure combustion engine, plug-in hybrid drive system or battery-electric solution.
The Concept iX3 adopts the last item, and showcases the fifth generation of the brand’s eDrive technology. Aside from more powerful batteries, the electric motor, transmission and power electronics are now contained a single electric drive unit for a more compact packaging.
According to BMW, the concept features a 268 hp (200 kW) electric motor, which is supplied by a 70 kWh battery. The battery comes with a new charging control unit that supports fast charging of up to 150 kW, allowing it to be charged in just 30 minutes from specific DC charging stations – the car appears to use a standard Type 2 socket instead of a Combo CCS plug, however. When fully charged, a range of more than 400 km (WLTP cycle) is possible.
Visually, there are some notable differences between the all-electric concept and the regular X3. The most obvious of which is seen at the front, where the kidney grilles are now joined – a cue seen on the i Vision Dynamics from last year.
The lower apron is also more angular in appearance, especially in the bottom intake that is highlighted by high-gloss black trim. There are also small side inlets at the corners of the bumper, but we still see the near-identical bonnets lines as on the X3.
Along the sides, the Air Breather on the left is now joined by a dedicated charging port and has been garnished with the BMW i logo. As for the rear, the X3’s standard taillights remain untouched, although the exhaust outlets have been omitted to reflect the zero emission powertrain. In their place is a diffuser element that features the same blue accents scattered around the exterior.
The production version of the Concept iX3 will be built in Shenyang, China by BMW Brilliance Automotive, a joint venture between BMW and Brilliance Auto. When it launches, it will compete against the likes of the Jaguar I-Pace, Audi e-tron and Mercedes-Benz EQC.
https://vimeo.com/266638953
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I still prefer the BMW’s original pig nose grill….
Black sunglass is acceptable too.
Snout gone plastic surgery
So whats the kia grille doing there….
The article quotes BMW as saying it powers the front wheels. Is this correct? Cos the CLAR platform is RWD based.
You’re right. BMW did not specify front- or rear-wheel drive specifically, but rear is more likely in this case. However, the press release does mention that new BMW i models will have “flexible, further developed vehicle architectures accommodating all types of front-wheel, rear-wheel and all-wheel drive.”
Wow KIA really upping their game.