Bmw iX3, debut of the Neue Klasse. Revolutionary interior and battery for 800 km range

It is called the Bmw iX3 and is not only the electric version of the X3 but a true technological manifesto of the Munich-based brand. Because in addition to being the first model of the Neue Klasse generation, it brings BMW's electric and technological future onto the road, starting with a range of over 800 kilometres. Ready to be unveiled to the general public at the Munich Motor Show, scheduled for 9-13 September, it will hit the road in the first quarter of 2026. As is increasingly the case, the iX3 is a software-defined car with four 'super brains' that take care of driving dynamics, infotainment, semi-automated driving and basic and comfort functions.

Featuring unprecedented styling that follows that anticipated by the Vision Neue Klasse X concept car, presenting a new face for suvs starting with the vertical grille reminiscent of 1960s models and dynamic headlamp lighting effects, the Bmw iX3 is 4,782 mm long, 1,895 mm wide, 1,635 mm high and 2,897 mm.

The interior of the iX3 introduces a number of technologies that will arrive on future BMWs, starting with the Bmw Panoramic iDrive based on the Bmw Operating System X that results in a projection at the base of the windscreen from pillar to pillar for an overall size of 43.3 inches visible to every passenger. Integrated with the 17.9-inch central screen and 3D head-up display, it confirms BMW's desire to minimise distractions on board by saying goodbye to a multitude of screens on the dashboard. The steering wheel is also new, with buttons that only light up when a function is available or active.

The BMW iX3 is equipped with the sixth-generation eDrive technology developed for the Neue Klasse, which includes new highly efficient electric motors with 40 per cent lower energy losses, 10 per cent less weight and 20 per cent lower production costs, batteries with cylindrical cells and 30 per cent higher density, and 30 per cent faster recharging speeds.Specifically, the iX3 50 xDrive is powered by a synchronous motor at the front, an asynchronous one at the rear, inverters with 800 V technology, silicon carbide semiconductors and a 108 kWh cell-to-pack battery with 805 km of Wltp range with the possibility of being recharged in direct current at 400 kW in alternating current up to 22 kW.

Using an 800 V charging station, it can add more than 372 km of range in just 10 minutes; times almost comparable to a conventional refuelling. In addition, the iX3 has bi-directional charging capabilities, which means it can be used as a source for vehicle-to-load, vehicle-to-home and vehicle-to-grid applications. Translated? The car turns into a powerbank on four wheels, a home depot for self-generated energy and integration of the car into the energy market.