There have been loads of electrical BMWs previously, however nothing fairly just like the 2026 iX3. For the primary time since Munich started promoting EVs, a devoted structure is on the core of a product. Regardless of carrying a well-recognized title, the newcomer doesn’t use the identical CLAR platform as its predecessor. Consequently, it’s not mechanically associated to the combustion-powered X3 both.
Mike Reichelt, Head of Neue Klasse, explains that BMW “uncompromisingly optimized” the brand new iX3 for absolutely electrical automobiles. Codenamed “NA5,” the midsize SUV is the primary recipient of the Neue Klasse structure, engineered solely for EVs. Reichelt informed Australian journal CarExpert the aim was to deal with the problems which have made some folks reluctant to purchase electrical automobiles.
He believes vary anxiousness is now a factor of the previous. With as much as 805 kilometers (500 miles) on a single cost, that appears to be the case. Trying additional forward, an electrical BMW will go even farther. Earlier this 12 months, we reported that the sixth-generation battery tech with spherical cells has already been rated internally at 900 kilometers (559 miles). It’s unclear which mannequin will ship that vary, however logic suggests one thing smaller, lighter, and sleeker than the iX3.
Reichelt additionally stated one other aim of Neue Klasse was to maintain the iX3 fairly inexpensive by driving down manufacturing prices to attain a decrease asking worth. The 50 xDrive begins at round $60,000 in america, however sub-$55,000 variations are coming in early 2027. Entry-level fashions just like the i1 and i2 may have considerably cheaper price tags after they arrive later this decade.
He’s assured the iX3’s launch will go with out hiccups, each in {hardware} and software program: “We take a look at so much. Now we have thousands and thousands of kilometers of take a look at drives and prototypes all all over the world. We’re completely certain we’re prepared for this, and we all know this was not the straightforward approach.”
The iX3 is just the start. BMW has already teased an i3 sedan forward of its market launch in 2027. It stays tight-lipped concerning the different Neue Klasse-based fashions, however reviews level to 2 extra additions. An i3 Touring and an iX4 are allegedly deliberate, although they’ll arrive after the i3. Since no spy pictures of prototypes have surfaced, the electrical wagon and coupe-crossover are unlikely to debut earlier than late 2027 or 2028. Earlier than the last decade’s finish, we would see an i4 Coupe/Convertible two-door duo.
Within the meantime, the Gen6 batteries and motors premiering within the iX3 are coming to CLAR-based fashions. As we beforehand reported, the absolutely electrical iX5, iX6, and iX7 will Profit from new class {hardware}. Furthermore, BMW plans to equip all future fashions with the brand new infotainment system that includes a central display and Panoramic Imaginative and prescient projection.
The subsequent few years promise to be among the many most enjoyable in BMW’s historical past, following what the corporate has referred to as its largest single funding ever.
Supply: CarExpert
