BMW Launches First Neue Klasse Model: The iX3 Electric Sports Activity Vehicle

BMW has unveiled the new iX3, the first series-production model from its Neue Klasse lineup, featuring sixth-generation eDrive technology that delivers up to 805 kilometers of range and 400kW peak charging capability. The fully electric Sports Activity Vehicle marks the beginning of a new technological era for the German automaker, with production starting in November 2025.

The iX3 50 xDrive variant produces 345kW (469hp) and 645Nm of torque through dual electric motors, achieving 0-100km/h acceleration in 4.9 seconds. The vehicle incorporates an 108.7kWh lithium-ion cylindrical cell battery operating on an 800V system.

Advanced Charging and Range Capabilities

The new BMW iX3 supports DC fast charging at up to 400kW, adding 372 kilometers of range in ten minutes. The vehicle offers a maximum range of 805 kilometers on a single charge according to WLTP testing standards.

For the first time in a BMW model, the iX3 features bidirectional charging capabilities, enabling Vehicle-to-Load (V2L), Vehicle-to-Home (V2H), and Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G) functions. This allows the car to function as a mobile power source for external devices and energy systems.

Standard AC charging operates at 11kW, with an optional 22kW capability. Full charging requires 5 hours 45 minutes at 22kW AC charging rates.

Neue Klasse Technology Platform

The iX3 introduces BMW’s new zonal electronics architecture featuring four high-performance computers with 20 times more processing power than previous generations. This “superbrain” system forms the foundation for software-defined vehicle capabilities and over-the-air updates.

The vehicle’s Heart of Joy system manages driving characteristics across all conditions, while BMW Dynamic Performance Control software provides integrated drivetrain and driving dynamics management. A new feature called Soft Stop enables brake energy recuperation for 98 percent of everyday braking situations.

Digital Interface and Automation

BMW Panoramic iDrive with BMW Operating System X provides the primary user interface, incorporating a Central Display with free-cut design, 3D Head-Up Display, and multifunction steering wheel. The BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant includes large language model technology for natural voice interaction.

New automated driving functions include the Motorway & City Assistant, enhanced Park Assist, and AI-supported Symbiotic Drive with symbiotic brakes – a world-first technology according to BMW.

Sustainability and Materials

The new iX3 achieves a CO₂e break-even point compared to comparable combustion engine models after approximately 21,500 kilometers when charged with European energy mix, or 17,500 kilometers when using renewable energy sources exclusively.

Approximately one-third of the vehicle consists of secondary raw materials, including recycled marine plastic components and 100 percent recycled PET for seat textiles and carpeting. BMW reports a 35 percent reduction in supply chain CO₂e emissions during product development through the use of secondary materials and renewable energy.

The vehicle demonstrates up to 20 percent lower energy consumption compared to its predecessor model in WLTP combined testing.

Technical Specifications

The iX3 measures 4,782mm in length, 1,895mm in width, and 1,635mm in height, with a 2,897mm wheelbase. Unladen weight is 2,285kg according to DIN standards. The vehicle offers 520-1,750 liters of luggage capacity plus 58 liters of additional storage under the hood.

Maximum trailer load capacity reaches 2,000kg when braked, with a maximum permissible vehicle weight of 2,825kg.

Production and Market Launch

Oliver Zipse, Chairman of the Board of Management of BMW AG comments on the launch: “The Neue Klasse is our biggest future project and marks a huge leap in terms of technologies, driving experience and design. Practically everything about it is new, yet it is also more BMW than ever. Our entire product range will benefit from the innovations of the Neue Klasse – regardless of the drive technology.”

He futher notes, “What started as a bold vision has now become reality: the BMW iX3 is the first Neue Klasse model to go into series production. We are not only bringing the next generation of one of our most successful fully electric vehicles onto the road, we are launching a new era for BMW.”

The new BMW iX3 will launch in European markets in spring 2026, followed by US market availability in summer 2026. Production begins at the BMW plant in Debrecen, which operates without fossil fuels under normal operating conditions. BMW plans to incorporate Neue Klasse technologies across 40 new models and model updates between now and 2027.

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