Introduction
The automotive world is in the midst of a tectonic shift towards electrification, and even the most hallowed performance brands are reinventing themselves for the EV age. Few names are as synonymous with driving excitement as BMW, the German luxury automaker that has long touted its vehicles as "the ultimate driving machines".
But can BMW‘s renowned performance pedigree translate to the electric realm? The brand‘s new iX electric SUV aims to prove it can, serving as both a technological flagship and a template for BMW‘s EV future. By packaging the iX with cutting-edge EV tech, potent performance, and forward-thinking design, BMW hopes to redefine "the ultimate driving machine" for the electric era.
Development & Design
The iX is BMW‘s first vehicle designed from the ground up as an EV, built on an all-new aluminum spaceframe and carbon fiber reinforced plastic (CFRP) architecture. "The iX is purpose-built to be electric from day one," says Robert Irlinger, head of BMW‘s i division. "It‘s not based on any existing model – we developed it purely as an EV to optimize space, range and performance."^1
Visually, the iX cuts a striking figure with its massive double kidney grilles (which house an array of sensors), sleek aerodynamic profile, and chiseled surfaces. "The iX represents a complete rethink of vehicle design," says BMW Group Design Director Adrian van Hooydonk. "We wanted to create an EV that looks as advanced as the technology underneath, but still unmistakably a BMW."[^2]
However, the iX‘s radical styling is polarizing. Some critics deride the jumbo grilles as ungainly, a departure from BMW‘s elegant design language. Motor Trend called it "a tad too similar to Hannibal Lecter‘s mask"[^3], while Top Gear said "it looks like it‘s about to inhale pedestrians"[^4]. Still, BMW defends the bold look as necessary to house the iX‘s myriad sensors and optimize aerodynamics (it boasts a drag coefficient of just 0.25 Cd).
Powertrain & Performance
The iX launches with a choice of two electric powertrains:
| Model | Motors | Horsepower | Torque (lb-ft) | 0-60 mph | Range (mi) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| iX xDrive50 | Dual | 516 | 564 | 4.4 sec | 324 |
| iX M60 | Dual | 610 | 749 | 3.6 sec | 280 |
Both iX models use dual electric motors (one driving each axle) to provide electric all-wheel drive. The motors are powered by a huge 111.5 kWh battery pack mounted under the floor, giving the iX a low center of gravity to aid handling. The iX‘s electric motors use BMW‘s latest "eDrive" technology, with the ability to independently control torque at each wheel for improved agility.[^5]
In terms of straight-line speed, the iX is no slouch. The base xDrive50 rockets to 60 mph in just 4.4 seconds, while the sportier M60 does it in a supercar-like 3.6 seconds. Top speed is limited to 124 mph for the xDrive50 and 130 mph for the M60. The instant torque of the electric motors makes the iX feel even quicker than those numbers suggest.
Despite its hefty 5,500+ pound curb weight, the iX belies its size with remarkably agile handling. The batteries‘ low mounting and near 50/50 weight distribution give it a planted, surefooted feel. "The way the iX corners is nothing short of astonishing for such a heavy vehicle," gushes Car & Driver.[^6] An air suspension and rear-wheel steering further improve ride and handling.
Range, Charging & Efficiency
One of the iX‘s headline features is its impressive driving range. The xDrive50 can travel up to 324 miles on a single charge based on EPA estimates, giving it one of the longest ranges of any EV on the market today. The iX M60‘s added power does cut range to 280 miles. Still, both figures are impressive given the iX‘s size and performance.
| Metric | iX xDrive50 | iX M60 |
|---|---|---|
| Battery capacity | 111.5 kWh | 111.5 kWh |
| EPA range | 324 miles | 280 miles |
| Efficiency | 39 kWh/100 miles | 45 kWh/100 miles |
| Peak charging (DC) | 195 kW | 195 kW |
| Charging time (10-80%) | ~35 min | ~35 min |
| Charging time (0-100% Level 2) | ~11 hrs | ~11 hrs |
Charging times are competitive if not quite class-leading. Using a DC fast charger, the iX can recharge from 10% to 80% in around 35 minutes at peak rates up to 195 kW. With a Level 2 home charger, expect a full charge to take about 11 hours. So while the iX is suitable for road trips, Tesla still holds an advantage with its proprietary Supercharger network.^7
In terms of efficiency, the EPA rates the iX xDrive50 at 39 kWh used per 100 miles driven, and the M60 at 45 kWh/100 miles – both impressive for a large, powerful electric SUV. For context, the Tesla Model X Long Range uses 33 kWh/100 miles, while the Audi e-tron uses 44 kWh/100 miles.^8
Interior & Technology
Inside, the iX presents a strikingly modern, minimalist aesthetic in keeping with its futuristic EV mission. The focal point is a sweeping, curved digital display that spans over half the dashboard. At 14.9 inches, the central touchscreen is one of the largest in any vehicle, while a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster sits behind the distinctive hexagonal steering wheel. Unique design touches include open-pore wood trim laser-etched with fractal patterns, and a panoramic "Sky Lounge" LED roof that sparkles like stars at night.
The iX debuts BMW‘s new iDrive 8 infotainment system, an advanced natural-language voice assistant that can control everything from navigation to climate settings. Saying "Hey BMW" wakes up the assistant, which can respond to casual speech. For example, saying "My feet are cold" will prompt the iX to direct more heat to the footwells.^9 The sharp graphics impress, though some reviewers found the new horizontal menu layout unintuitive versus the old iDrive.
Other cutting-edge tech includes a 360-degree parking camera, a hands-free "Auto Park" function that can autonomously navigate tight spots, 5G connectivity, and over-the-air (OTA) software updates. The optional "Parking Assistant Professional" package even enables the iX to memorize and reproduce specific parking maneuvers.
In keeping with the iX‘s eco-friendly ethos, BMW utilizes sustainable materials throughout the interior, including recycled plastics, FSC-certified wood trim, and "Sensatec" synthetic leather. The standard seats are a soft fabric/microfiber blend, while perforated leather and massaging front seats are optional. Passenger space is cavernous, with ample head and legroom front and rear. However, cargo capacity trails rivals at 35.5 cubic feet behind the second row and 77.9 cubic feet with the seats folded.[^10]
Pricing & Positioning
Pricing for the iX starts at $84,100 for the base xDrive50 and $108,900 for the M60 (not including $995 destination charge). While lofty, those MSRPs actually undercut the Tesla Model X by a few thousand dollars comparably equipped. However, a loaded iX M60 can top $130,000 – deep into Porsche Cayenne Turbo S E-Hybrid territory.
Compared to its main rivals, the iX occupies a middle ground in the burgeoning electric luxury SUV segment:
| Model | Base Price | Range (mi) | 0-60 mph | Cargo Space (cu ft) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Audi e-tron | $70,800 | 222 | 5.5 sec | 28.5 / 56.5 |
| Jaguar i-Pace | $71,300 | 234 | 4.5 sec | 25.3 / 53.6 |
| BMW iX xDrive50 | $84,100 | 324 | 4.4 sec | 35.5 / 77.9 |
| Tesla Model X | $91,190 | 332 | 3.8 sec | 88.0 / 95.0 |
So the iX has a range and performance advantage over similarly priced rivals, but can‘t quite match the larger, pricier Model X‘s practicality. The iX‘s bold styling is also a potential sticking point for buyers – it lacks the conventional good looks of a Jaguar i-Pace or Audi e-tron. Still, the iX does occupy a unique space as a high-performance EV with impressive range and cutting-edge tech.
Market Reception & BMW‘s EV Future
As electric vehicles continue to gain mainstream acceptance, the iX is poised to capture a growing slice of the premium EV market. Global demand for EVs surged 168% in the first half of 2021, and the International Energy Agency predicts there will be 145 million EVs on the road by 2030.[^11] Tightening emissions regulations in Europe and Asia, coupled with expanding charging infrastructure and battery improvements, are accelerating the shift to electric.
In the US, BMW sold 3,154 units of the iX through the first three quarters of 2022 – a respectable start for a new and pricey electric model (for context, the brand sold around 17,000 gas-powered X5 SUVs over the same period).[^12] Globally, the iX is off to a stronger start with around 22,000 units produced in 2022. BMW is scaling up production capacity and expects iX sales to increase significantly in 2024 and beyond.[^13]
The iX is just the first salvo in an ambitious electrification strategy from BMW. By 2023, the automaker plans to offer at least one EV in every major segment, from the compact i4 sedan to the ultra-luxury i7. A smaller iX1 crossover and i5 midsize SUV are also in the works. By 2025, BMW intends to launch a dozen new EVs, including a Tesla Model 3-rivaling "Neue Klasse" 3 Series EV and a flagship iM5 electric performance sedan with over 1,000 horsepower.[^14] Overall, BMW aims for EVs to comprise half of its global sales by 2030.
However, executing this EV onslaught won‘t be easy. For one, BMW faces intensifying competition not just from established rivals but from EV startups like Lucid, Rivian, Fisker and NIO. Tesla doesn‘t appear to be slowing down either, with a revamped Model S/X and new Roadster on the way.
Additionally, BMW must contend with supply chain constraints, the war in Ukraine, and a global semiconductor shortage that is constraining production across the industry. High battery costs and limited raw materials like lithium, nickel and cobalt also pose challenges to BMW‘s lofty electrification targets.^15 Finally, the charging infrastructure in many markets still has room for improvement to support mass EV adoption.
Conclusion
The BMW iX is a stunning achievement that showcases the best of BMW‘s engineering prowess and positions the brand at the forefront of the EV revolution. With its advanced EV architecture, potent performance, cutting-edge tech and eco-friendly ethos, the iX proves that the "ultimate driving machine" of the future will be electric.
However, some hurdles remain for the iX to truly win over the hearts and wallets of luxury EV buyers. The controversial styling, lofty price tag and lack of brand cachet in an increasingly crowded segment may limit the iX‘s appeal, especially in the critical US market. BMW‘s ability to transition its storied "ultimate driving machine" tagline to the electric age is also an open question.
Still, as a technological statement and a harbinger of BMW‘s future, the iX is an impressive effort with few true peers. It represents a glimpse of an electrified future where luxury, performance and sustainability coexist in harmony. With each passing month, BMW is proving that the electric vehicles of tomorrow need not sacrifice the driving thrills that car enthusiasts love today. In that sense, the iX‘s lasting legacy may be in bridging the past and future of the automobile.
[^2]: Car Magazine[^3]: Motor Trend
[^4]: Top Gear
[^5]: Green Car Reports
[^6]: Car & Driver [^10]: BMW USA
[^11]: IEA Global EV Outlook 2022
[^12]: GoodCarBadCar BMW Sales
[^13]: BMW Group Report 2022
[^14]: Car & Driver
![](https://pinterest.com/pin/create/bookmarklet/?media=https://www.historytools.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/20240331052115-6608f2cb17886.jpg&url=https://www.historytools.org/products/bmw-ix-ev-full-specs-price-range-and-more&description=BMW%20iX%20Deep%20Dive:%20The%20Electric%20SUV%20Redefining%20"Ultimate%20Driving%20Machine"){kind=link}