BMW launches the new iX as India’s first-ever all-electric SUV

Schenelle Dsouza

Joining the force of electric cars around the world, German carmaker BMW launched the BMW iX SUV in India as the country’s first electric all-wheel-drive vehicle by the company.

Along with a heavily futuristic design, the iX entails the principles of sustainability. The use of exclusively renewable energy sources during production, along with the use of natural, recyclable materials within the interior, makes the iX BMW’s most sustainable car to date.

Exterior

A stand-out design from all other BMW models, the new BMW iX boasts of a futuristic design, with precise elements that give the vehicle a robust yet clean look. The large new kidney grille remains the focus, doubling up as an intelligence panel with an integrated camera, sensors and radar technology. BMW adds a spec of minimalism to the bulky vehicle, with slim dual-beam LED headlamps and taillights.

In addition to the standard 20-inch light-alloy wheels, buyers also have a choice of 21-inch and 22-inch Air Performance Wheels that can be fitted with noise-reduced tyres to improve acoustic comfort. Other design highlights of the iX include frameless windows, flush-fitting door handles, a fixed clamshell-style bonnet, side skirts and an extraordinarily large panoramic glass roof with electrochromic shading.

Powertrain 

Equipped with an electric all-wheel-drive system, the BMW iX is powered by dual high-voltage electric motors that come fitted for each axle. BMW claims that the iX has a max range of 425 km on a single charge. With an output of 326hp, the iX can instantly accelerate from 0 to 100kmph in 6.1 seconds.

A new button preset dubbed ‘My Modes’ will allow the driver to choose from three new settings: Personal, Sport and Efficient. Each of these modes come with their own presets, along with customized driving settings.

Two high-voltage batteries integrated into the floor have a combined capacity of 76.6 kWh and provide a range of up to 425 kilometres. The first-ever BMW iX ensures fast charging. As an introductory offer, the BMW iX will come with a complimentary smart BMW Wallbox charger. It can be integrated at home to enable safe and convenient charging up to 11kW.

Interior

The spacious interiors are luxuriously fitted with sustainable upholstery like quilted olive-leaf tanned leather, microfiber and wool blend, and SensaTec along with FSC-certified wood and ECONYL© (regenerated nylon made from ocean waste) floor mats. The seats are multi-functional, with integral head restraints, memory and massage functions.

Adding to the futuristic design of the vehicle, a new hexagonal steering wheel makes its way into the design with soft-touch buttons and scroller wheels.

Taking the centre stage is a massive new freestanding BMW Curved Display that is a seamless integration between the 14.9-inch infotainment screen and the 12.3-inch driver display. Occupants can operate functions like Virtual Assistant, Natural Interaction (gesture control), wireless charging, wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay.

As standard, the iX comes with a Harmon Kardon audio system with 18 speakers. Another option includes the impressive Bowers & Wilkins Diamond Surround Sound System with 30 speakers embedded in the seats, to produce a 4D audio function providing the ultimate sound experience.

Price

Priced at Rs 1.16 crores (ex-showroom India), the new BMW iX is available in Mineral White, Phytonic Blue, Black Sapphire and Sophisto Grey, in addition to the optional BMW Individual Aventurine Red metallic finish. The car can be booked through BMW dealerships across the country, deliveries for which will begin by April 2022. Earlier today, BMW announced that the first lot of its fully electric all-wheel drive iX model has been completely sold out on the first day of the launch.

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