iX: This is how BMW introduces itself to the new e-SUV | Tyrolean daily newspaper online

Den iX, Ergebnis der iNext-Strategie von BMW, will der Hersteller gegen Ende 2021 auf den Markt bringen – mit einer elektrischen WLTP-Reichweite von mehr als 600 Kilometern.

By Markus Höscheler

Munich – It is not that the BMW Group missed the topic of electromobility. Quite the opposite: apart from e-pioneer Tesla and hybrid trendsetter Toyota, the southern German manufacturer has made a name for itself with the project “i” and has earned respect with the i3 and i8. The big hit did not materialize, however, because the i3 was obviously too expensive with its mix of materials (carbon and aluminum), the i8 remained a niche model. Then the group apparently lacked the will to replenish pure electric cars; However, when it came to the spread of plug-in hybrids, there was more activity by the group.

In the meantime, technicians and engineers are busy working on a new beacon of hope that is behind the Project iNext. This week BMW unveiled a new model, a fairly close-to-production sport utility vehicle the size of an X5: the iX. According to BMW management, the vehicle has what it takes to give electric mobility a whole new boost. A number that deserves attention is decisive for this: the lithium-ion battery, which has a capacity of more than 100 kilowatt hours, is intended to enable a WLTP range of more than 600 kilometers – it is a high-voltage storage device of the “latest generation”, as BMW emphasizes .

The available electricity is used by the two installed electric motors, which, according to the current state of development, will together produce more than 370 kilowatts (500 hp) and are able to accelerate the iX from zero to 100 km / h in less than five seconds.

Nicht nur antriebstechnisch zeigt BMW Neues, sondern auch hinsichtlich der Konzeption des Innenraums: Unüblich ist etwa das hexagonale Lenkrad.

Charging is not quite as fast, but it is quite quick. Up to 200 kilowatts is the promised output at direct current fast charging stations. Energy for a range of 120 kilometers can be obtained in ten minutes, and the battery can be charged from ten to 80 percent in 40 minutes.

This is an impressive challenge to other manufacturers of electric vehicles. It is not the only one, because BMW does not want to leave it with the car alone, but also directs its attention to the production process. It is important for the management to point out that the electric motors can do without the use of rare earths (“critical raw materials”). In the manufacturing process of system-relevant components – batteries, for example – it is important that the electricity used for this is used “exclusively from renewable sources”. “Really outstanding mobility must be sustainable,” said BMW CEO Oliver Zipse as a result. BMW intends to produce the iX in the Bavarian plant in Dingolfing from summer 2021 and launch it on the market towards the end of next year.

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