On September 5th, BMW officially unveiled the new generation iX3. This time, in addition to the global version, BMW created a “China-Exclusive Edition” tailored for the Chinese market, which it expects to debut domestically this year. This new generation brings significant advancements across the board.

1. Nueva plataforma y mayor autonomía: El poder de las baterías cilíndricas

BMW construyó el nuevo iX3 en su planta de “New Class Architecture” (NCAR) plataforma totalmente eléctrica. También utiliza el sistema eDrive de sexta generación, baterías cilíndricas de gran tamaño y una plataforma de alto voltaje de 800V. Todas estas tecnologías son completamente nuevas.

The battery pack uses a “Cell-to-Pack” design, which integrates the battery cells directly into the pack. This design is also a structural part of the car body. It lowers the vehicle’s weight and center of gravity, which in turn improves interior space and aerodynamics. According to BMW, the new car can gain up to 400 km de autonomía en sólo 10 minutos de carga. La versión exclusiva para China alcanzará una autonomía CLTC de más de 1.000 km. 900 km.

Para la cadena cinemática, BMW mejoró el motor síncrono de excitación externa del eje trasero y lo combinó con un nuevo motor asíncrono compacto para formar un sistema de motor doble. Esta configuración reduce la pérdida de energía en 40% y aumenta la eficiencia global del vehículo en 20%.

2. Smart Cockpit: Co-Developed with China’s AI “Dream Team”

The new iX3’s smart cockpit is a collaboration with top Chinese tech companies.

El sistema se estrena con el “Exclusive BMW Operating System X,” que cuenta con una enorme pantalla central de 17,9 pulgadas y un head-up display en 3D. Si tapáramos el logotipo de BMW del volante, ni siquiera podríamos adivinar que se trata de un coche de una marca de lujo tradicional. Este sistema integra mucha tecnología procedente de China. BMW colaboró con Alibaba y DeepSeek en grandes modelos de IA, lo que hace que el asistente de voz sea mucho más inteligente. También integra Huawei’s HarmonyOS ecosystemcompatible con servicios digitales como BMW Digital Key y HUAWEI HiCar. Puedes conectar sin problemas tu teléfono con un simple toque, transfiriendo la navegación y la música directamente al sistema del coche.

However, there is one notable change. The iconic iDrive rotary controller is gone, and many physical buttons have been removed. The interior now has a minimalist, tech-focused design. To control functions, you’ll use either the touchscreen or the voice assistant. This will require some adjustment for owners of older BMW models.

3. Four “Superbrains” for Intelligent Driving

Para sus sistemas avanzados de asistencia al conductor, BMW se asoció con el equipo chino Momento. Adaptaron específicamente la solución a las complejas condiciones de las carreteras chinas y a los hábitos de conducción.

The iX3 features four “Superbrains,” or four high-performance computers. They each have a dedicated function but work together seamlessly. The first is a completely self-developed “Superbrain” by BMW. It has 10 times the computing power of previous systems and integrates powertrain and driving dynamics management. The second “Superbrain” powers the next leap in autonomous driving. The other two elevate the driving experience to a new level. “In the future, we will integrate these four key control units into a single high-performance computer,” a BMW representative stated. This will lead to more precise, powerful, and efficient performance. These four “Superbrains” enable two driving modes: “BOOST” for a sporty, dynamic feel y “EASE” for comfort and relaxation.

4. Diseño icónico y detalles llamativos

The new iX3’s overall design stays true to BMW’s family elements. It keeps the familiar kidney grille, “Angel Eyes” headlights, and Hofmeister kink.

El nuevo rejilla de riñón cerrada is not just for show; it hides millimeter-wave radar and cameras. The grille also has integrated “illuminated trim,” which, along with the slim “Angel Eyes” headlights, gives the car a more futuristic feel. The side profile features a fastback design with a rising waistline, creating a dynamic look.

Details are also well-thought-out. It has flush door handles and low-drag wheels, achieving a low drag coefficient of just 0.25. The 3D cubic taillights feature an “X” shape, echoing the “iX3” name. When lit at night, they will surely attract attention.

5. La versión exclusiva para China: Más larga y cómoda

In addition to the smart features with Chinese elements, BMW also created a China-exclusive version of the new iX3—it is longer! The locally produced new iX3’s wheelbase is extended by over 100 mm, creating more rear legroom. The rear seats were developed by a Shanghai-based team and feature thick, long cushions, making them more comfortable for long journeys.

Furthermore, the BMW engineering team specially fine-tuned the chassis and suspension systems for Chinese road conditions and driving preferences. According to BMW, it has collaborated with Chinese battery manufacturers like CATL and Eve Energy. The company has already started trial production of large cylindrical battery packs at its Shenyang plant by the end of 2024. As a result, Chinese customers will be among the first to experience this car’s long range, fast charging, and excellent handling.

BMW plans to launch over 40 new or upgraded products with New Generation technology globally by 2027. This marks the official beginning of BMW’s electric era. The technologies in the new iX3—from large cylindrical batteries to advanced smart cockpits and ADAS systems—all show the influence of Chinese teams. This proves that China is a global leader in new energy and smart technology.

The R&D achievements in China will not only meet the needs of Chinese consumers but will also be applied to BMW’s global models. As BMW has said, “Many of BMW’s improvements have also been inspired by Chinese competitors. What we develop in China and what proves effective in China will be promoted to the rest of the world.”

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En nuevo BMW iX3 exemplifies the profound collaboration between global automakers and China’s cutting-edge technology sector. It is a prime example of how local partnerships create some of the most advanced EVs in the world.

En HiLUCK, we specialize in exporting a curated selection of premium Chinese new energy vehicles to markets around the globe. We provide comprehensive, exclusive overseas purchasing solutions to simplify the import process. If you are interested in the new BMW iX3 or want to explore other exciting, innovative vehicles from the Chinese market, don’t hesitate to reach out.