The BMW iX3 prototype testing is already revealing what the future of electric driving will feel like. This upcoming Sports Activity Vehicle, part of BMW’s Neue Klasse lineup, is undergoing intense development in southern France. And the results are pointing to a serious evolution in electric mobility, driving dynamics, and smart tech.
BMW is not just fine-tuning a new electric vehicle. It’s redefining the standard with cutting-edge features, longer range, and dynamic precision. With production set to begin later this year, the iX3 is taking its final steps before heading to the spotlight at IAA Mobility 2025.
Performance Boost with Gen6 Powertrain
The BMW iX3 will debut the brand’s sixth-generation (Gen6) electric powertrain. The numbers are impressive: up to 800km of range (WLTP) and the ability to gain over 350km in just 10 minutes of charging. With 400kW of maximum charging capacity, it’s set to bring major convenience to daily EV use.
Power delivery, braking, and even recuperation work seamlessly thanks to the advanced “Heart of Joy” control unit. This system processes input ten times faster than previous BMW models, ensuring sharper responses and intuitive control.
Driver-Focused Tech with Panoramic iDrive
At the heart of the cabin lies the revolutionary BMW Panoramic iDrive. This system puts all essential information directly into the driver’s line of sight. From the windscreen-spanning BMW Panoramic Vision to the 3D Head-Up Display and central matrix screen, the experience is both immersive and distraction-free.
The multifunctional steering wheel offers intuitive control via illuminated buttons and haptic feedback. Together, these elements keep your eyes on the road and hands on the wheel, just as BMW intended.
Charging Smarter and Faster
The iX3’s intelligent charging setup adds convenience and efficiency. The car features a self-opening flap activated by AI that detects when you’re heading to a charging point. With 800V technology, it handles rapid charging at full power, while remaining compatible with standard 400V DC stations.
An exciting addition is bidirectional charging. Whether powering external devices (Vehicle-to-Load), storing home energy (Vehicle-to-Home), or giving back to the grid (Vehicle-to-Grid), the iX3 adapts to any energy scenario.
Heart of Joy Enhances Driving Precision
BMW’s new “Heart of Joy” computing unit transforms how the car reacts to inputs. From cornering to deceleration, the iX3 offers enhanced stability, responsive steering, and ultra-smooth regenerative braking.
It allows for driving with minimal braking input, as 98% of deceleration is handled by energy recuperation. That means a more refined, noise-free experience with seamless transitions and intuitive handling.
Smarter Assistance on the Road
The BMW iX3 introduces the next generation of Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS). BMW’s latest “Superbrain” computer processes driving data 20 times faster than previous systems.
This allows for new levels of safety and automation. Features like lane-change warning, road priority alerts, and safe-exit monitoring are part of the base setup. Over time, more advanced systems will integrate AI to provide even smarter and more reliable support behind the wheel.
Towards Production and World Debut
While the iX3 is still in testing, its progress signals a bold new chapter for BMW. The insights gained during development are shaping the final production model, which will roll out from BMW’s new Hungarian facility by year-end.
The world premiere will happen at the IAA Mobility 2025 in Munich, but the testing already shows the model’s maturity and performance promise.
Summary
BMW iX3 prototype testing confirms one thing, the Neue Klasse era is more than just an evolution; it’s a revolution. With sharp handling, longer range, fast charging, and an immersive tech experience, the iX3 is set to push electric driving to thrilling new heights.
Disclaimer: All vehicle features, specifications, and performance figures are subject to final testing and may change before production.
Source: BMW
