In the past there have been many electric BMWs, but nothing like the 2026 IX3. For the first time since Munich, committed architecture is the core of a product. Although the newcomer bears a familiar name, he does not use the same Clar platform as its predecessor. As a result, it is not mechanically related to the combustion company X3.
Mike Reichelt, head of new class, explains that BMW has “uncompromisingly optimized” the new IX3 for fully electrical cars. The medium -sized SUV “Na5” is the first recipient of the new class architecture that was developed exclusively for EVS. Reichelt told the Australian magazine Carexpert The aim was to tackle the problems that some people have caused to buy electric cars.
He believes that range is now a thing of the past. With up to 805 kilometers (500 miles) with a single load, this seems to be the case. If you continue looking forward, an electric BMW will go further. At the beginning of this year we reported that the sixth generation of the sixth generation of round cells was already rated internally with 900 kilometers (559 miles). It is unclear which model delivers this area, but Logic suggests something smaller, lighter and slimmer than the IX3.
Reichelt also said that another goal of new class was to keep the IX3 somewhat affordable by reducing the production costs in order to achieve a lower price. The 50 XDrive begins in the USA at around $ 60,000, but versions of $ 55,000 come in early 2027. Entry models such as I1 and I2 have significantly lower price tags later this decade.
He is confident that the start of the IX3 will fluctuate on hardware and software without hiccups: “We test a lot. We have millions of kilometers of test drives and prototypes around the world. We are absolutely certain that we are ready for it, and we know that this was not the easy way.”
The IX3 is just the beginning. BMW has already annoyed an i3 sedan before it was launched in 2027. It remains defined by the other models based in new class, but reports indicate two further additions. An i3 touring and an IX4 are supposedly planned, even though they arrive after the i3. Since no spy photos of prototypes have appeared, it is unlikely that the electric car and coupé crossover will be to debut before the end of 2027 or 2028 before the end of the decade, possibly a two-door duo from i4 Coupé/Cabrio.
In the meantime, the gene6 batteries and engines that have its premiere in the IX3 will come to Clar-based models. As we have already reported, the full electrical IX5, IX6 and IX7 benefit from new class hardware. In addition, BMW plans to equip all future models with the new infotainment system with a projection with a central screen and panoramic views.
The next few years promise to be among the most exciting in the history of BMW after the company has described its largest individual investment ever.
Source: Carexpert
