+++ BMW i4 gets improved energy efficiency and increased range +++ New BMW i4 range-topper with even more power +++ BMW Digital Key becomes preferred means of access for many BMW models +++ Tyre repair kit Plus now standard on models like BMW 1 Series, BMW 2 Series Coupé, BMW 3 Series +++ BMW Individual special paintwork colours newly available in the BMW Configurator +++ New optional paintwork colour for BMW iX +++ Ultimate Package available for BMW X5 M Competition and BMW X6 M Competition +++ New BMW Maps functions +++

Munich. Summer 2025 is set to bring innovations in electric drive technology and digitalisation as well as new standard and optional equipment features that will make the current BMW model range even more attractive. New power electronics in the all-electric BMW i4 result in even greater efficiency and increased range. The most powerful BMW i4 will also debut at the same time. Numerous BMW models will come as standard with Comfort Access and the BMW Digital Key, which has now become even easier to set up.

From summer 2025, the BMW X1, BMW X2 and BMW 2 Series Active Tourer will be available with new exterior and interior options. Standard equipment for the BMW 1 Series and BMW 2 Series Gran Coupé now includes heated front seats. The BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant now offers an alternative voice.

BMW i4: reduced consumption, new range-topper with extra power.

From July 2025, the BMW i4 eDrive35 (WLTP combined (EnVKV): energy consumption 17.5 kWh/100 km; CO₂ emissions 0 g/km; CO₂ class A); range 428-514 km (WLTP combined (PER)) as well as the BMW i4 eDrive40 (WLTP combined (EnVKV): energy consumption 17.8 kWh/100 km; CO₂ emissions 0 g/km; CO₂ class A); range 510-613 km (WLTP combined (PER)) will come with silicon carbide semiconductor components in the power electronics (SiC inverter), which reduce consumption by around 4.5 per cent while adding up to 22 kilometres of range (depending on the model and equipment installed as part of an individual vehicle configuration).

From July 2025, the new range topper for the all-electric BMW i4 comes in the shape of the BMW i4 M60 xDrive (WLTP combined (EnVKV): energy consumption 20.9 kWh/100 km; CO₂ emissions 0 g/km; CO₂ class A); range 433-551 km (WLTP combined (PER)). Compared to the predecessor, it provides an additional 42 kW/57 hp of power, for a system output of 442 kW/601 hp. The new BMW i4 M60 xDrive takes 3.7 seconds for the sprint from 0 to 100 km/h.

BMW Digital Key: smartphone used as key enables many additional functions.

The BMW Digital Key will soon become the tool of choice to unlock and lock many BMW models, courtesy of a simplified set-up process. The BMW iX was the first to be updated in March 2025, and many model series will follow from July 2025: the BMW 1 Series, BMW 2 Series Gran Coupé, BMW 2 Series Active Tourer, BMW X1, BMW X2, BMW 5 Series Sedan, BMW 5 Series Touring, BMW M5, BMW M5 Touring and BMW 7 Series. The BMW X5, BMW X5 M, BMW X6, BMW X6 M, BMW X7 and BMW XM models will follow from August 2025. The BMW X3 will come with the new set-up process in the US from August 2025 and in South Africa from September 2025.

The feature will then include a physical key, a Setup Card and a Service Card. The new Setup Card makes it easier than ever to set up the BMW Digital Key on smartphones from all major manufacturers by simply holding the card to the mobile phone or scanning the QR code on the back. The next step takes the user straight into the My BMW app. After authorisation via the Setup Card, the BMW ID is linked to the vehicle and the BMW Digital Key is then activated. After activation, the customer can easily share the Digital Key with other people by sending them a text message. Activation is possible on up to 18 devices. Owners can define various roles and permissions for each vehicle user. A particularly useful function ideal for novice drivers is limiting acceleration and top speed, for example. If a physical key does need to be handed over, for example in the workshop or in the event of a breakdown, the new Service Card can be used. This should always be carried deactivated so it can be activated as a fully-fledged key when needed, via a click on the central display.

For all eventualities: tyre repair kit and tyre repair kit Plus.

From summer 2025, the tyre repair kit will come as standard for various BMW models. These include the BMW 1 Series, BMW 2 Series Gran Coupé, BMW 2 Series Coupé, BMW 3 Series Sedan, BMW 3 Series Touring, BMW 4 Series Coupé and the BMW 4 Series Convertible. The optional tyre repair kit Plus is available for the BMW X3 (excluding the BMW X3 30e xDrive).

Individual paintwork finishes at a glance, in the BMW Configurator.

Customers appreciate the BMW Individual paintwork colours as a way to add a personal touch to their new BMW. Special paintwork finishes which previously required looking up in the BMW Individual Visualiser can be selected within the BMW Configurator. With just a few exceptions, this applies to all BMW models.

More equipment for BMW 1 Series and BMW 2 Series Gran Coupé.

Standard equipment for the BMW 1 Series and BMW 2 Series Gran Coupé will from summer 2025 be even more comprehensive and include heated front seats and an alarm system. The optional M Technology Package II available for the BMW M135 xDrive (WLTP combined (EnVKV): fuel consumption 8.3 litres/100 km; CO₂ emissions 188 g/km; CO₂ class G) and the BMW M235 xDrive Gran Coupé (WLTP combined (EnVKV): fuel consumption 8.2 litres/100 km; CO₂ emissions 185 g/km; CO₂ class G) now includes M seat belts with M colours in the weave.

New colours for BMW 2 Series Active Tourer, BMW X1 and BMW X2.

Summer 2025 will bring new exterior and interior options for the BMW 2 Series Active Tourer, BMW X1 and BMW X2. New paintwork colours include Fire Red metallic and Night Dusk Blue for the BMW 2 Series Active Tourer as well as Dune Grey metallic for the BMW X2. All three colours are also available for the BMW X1, along with BMW Individual Frozen Portimao Blue metallic. Veganza perforated upholstery in the colours Castanea, Smoke White and Atlas Grey/Smoke White is newly available for customising the interior of the BMW 2 Series Active Tourer and BMW X2. The Castanea and Smoke White colourways are available for the BMW X1. The Econeer Bicolour Blue upholstery can be ordered from summer 2025 in combination with front sport seats only. Another new option is the Brushed Aluminium Shadow interior trim.

More comprehensive equipment for BMW 7 Series, BMW X3 and BMW iX.

The BMW 7 Series and BMW i7 now feature laminated safety glass with contrast print as standard. From summer 2025, comfort glazing, sun protection glazing and the Heat Comfort package will also be available as individual options for the first time, enabling even more specific customisation.

A new equipment option for the BMW X3 is the attractive M door sill trim. It can be ordered for the M Sport package, M Sport package Pro and the BMW X3 M50 xDrive (WLTP combined (EnVKV): fuel consumption 8.3 litres/100 km; CO₂ emissions 189 g/km; CO₂ class G).

BMW Individual Frozen Pure Grey metallic is a new paintwork finish with a particularly distinctive character, available as an option for the BMW iX from summer 2025.

Ultimate Package for BMW X5 M Competition and BMW X6 M Competition.

The BMW X5 M Competition (WLTP combined (EnVKV): fuel consumption 12.9 litres/100 km; CO₂ emissions 292 g/km; CO₂ class G) and the BMW X6 M Competition (WLTP combined (EnVKV): fuel consumption 12.8 litres/100 km; CO₂ emissions 289 g/km; CO₂ class G) now benefit from the optional Ultimate Package. In addition to the M Carbon engine cover, this also includes M Carbon mirror caps, the Sky Lounge panoramic glass sunroof, active seat ventilation as well as the massage function at the front and the Comfort Package. The Bowers & Wilkins Diamond Surround Sound System ensures exceptional sound quality. The M Driver’s Package included as part of the package increases top speed to 290 km/h. In the BMW X6 M Competition, this is complemented by an exclusive M Carbon rear spoiler.

Comprehensively upgraded BMW iDrive.

Among the numerous innovations in the area of digital services is the upgraded BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant in BMW Operating System 9. It now offers customers in Turkey, Greece and Hungary natural-language voice control in their native languages.  

In the BMW 1 Series, BMW 2 Series Gran Coupé and BMW X3, customers in many countries* can now link their own Amazon Alexa account to the BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant. This enables them to use intuitive voice control to enjoy music via the “Hey BMW” command – courtesy of Alexa running in the background, just like at home. In addition, a second voice is now available for the assistant.** Further improvements in language understanding and faster processing speeds contribute to a more harmonious overall experience.

From summer 2025, BMW Digital Premium with BMW Operating System 9 will, subject to country-specific availability, enable customers to use the Zoom app on their Curved Display for videoconferencing when the vehicle is stationary. To avoid distractions, the app automatically deactivates the video while driving.

* US, Canada, Mexico, Germany, France, United Kingdom, Spain, Italy.

** In the US, United Kingdom, Ireland, Canada, Mexico, France, Germany, Spain, Italy, Portugal, Switzerland, Austria, Iceland, Malta, Netherlands, Belgium, Luxembourg, Liechtenstein.

Parking Assistant Plus upgrade.

From July 2025, the functions of the Parking Assistant Plus will be enhanced for many BMW models. It will now also use marker lines around parking spots to help identify available spaces and ensure parking precision. Previously, this feature was only available as part of the Parking Assistant Professional.

BMW Maps user interface upgrades in BMW Operating System 8.5.

BMW Maps offers intuitive destination entry and intelligent route guidance and will come with further user interface improvements from summer 2025. For faster access to frequently used functions, the home screen of the control display will feature direct touch buttons for “Home” and “Work” in the BMW Maps QuickSelect Widget, for example.

* Consumption and emissions data:
The figures for fuel consumption, CO₂ emissions, energy consumption and range are for vehicles as offered on the German market. All data are based on the new WLTP test cycle. Energy consumption and emissions data refer to the German Passenger Car Energy Labelling Regulation (EnVKV).

** All new models due to enter production in July 2025.

In case of queries, please contact:

Corporate Communications

Cypselus von Frankenberg, Product Communication BMW Automobiles

Telephone: +49-89-382-30641

E-mail: Cypselus.von-Frankenberg@bmw.de

Alexandra Landers, Head of Product and Brand Communication BMW

Telephone: +49-89-382-30871

E-mail: Alexandra.Landers@bmw.de

Internet: https://newsroom.bmwgroup.com/global/en

E-mail: presse@bmw.de

The BMW Group

With its four brands BMW, MINI, Rolls-Royce and BMW Motorrad, the BMW Group is the world’s leading premium manufacturer of automobiles and motorcycles and also provides premium financial services. The BMW Group production network comprises over 30 production sites worldwide; the company has a global sales network in more than 140 countries. 

In 2024, the BMW Group sold over 2.45 million passenger vehicles and more than 210,000 motorcycles worldwide. The profit before tax in the financial year 2024 was € 11.0 billion on revenues amounting to € 142.4 billion. As of 31 December 2024, the BMW Group had a workforce of 159,104 employees. 

The economic success of the BMW Group has always been based on long-term thinking and responsible action. Sustainability is a key element of the BMW Group’s corporate strategy and covers all products from the supply chain and production to the end of their useful life.  

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Dingolfing. Today, the model update of the all-electric BMW iX celebrated its start of production at the BMW Group plant in Dingolfing. The electric pioneer, which has been manufactured at the site since 2021 and has since been sold over 130,000 units worldwide, receives a comprehensive update in March 2025 - offering increased performance, range and sportiness.

BMW's longest-range electric model.

The new BMW iX impresses with up to 25% higher drive power, significantly improved efficiency and a range of up to 701 kilometers in the WLTP cycle (BMW iX xDrive60: WLTP combined (EnVKV): Energy consumption 21.9 kWh/100 km; CO2 emissions 0 g/km; CO2 class A). The BMW iX is thus the most long-range electric model in the BMW Group's portfolio and the company's most important all-electric new model in 2025 - before the "New Class" makes its debut at the end of the year.

The new BMW iX also presents a more dynamic design than ever before: The vehicle is now available with the M Sport package and M Sport Pro package for the first time, which enhance the sporty appearance both inside and out. New exterior colours such as Arctic Race Blue metallic, Dune Grey metallic, Carbon Black metallic, BMW Individual Frozen Deep Grey metallic, BMW Individual Frozen Pure Grey metallic, Tanzanite Blue metallic and Space Silver are also offered.

Pioneering the All-Electric Era in Dingolfing.

Plant Manager Christoph Schröder states: "The BMW iX is a special vehicle for us. Four years ago, at its launch, it paved the way for many future technologies here on-site. And: It marked the beginning of the all-electric vehicle era in our plant." Meanwhile, a total of four electric models - the BMW iX, the BMW i7, and the all-electric versions of the 5 Series sedan and Touring - are being produced at the Lower Bavarian site, along with five plug-in hybrids. The BMW iX plays a crucial role in the model program of the entire company in the segment of all-electric mid-size and upper-class SAVs.

On location photos and footage International Media Launch in Barcelona.

As a vanguard in the field of electric mobility, the BMW iX has established a unique combination of progressive luxury and locally emission-free driving pleasure. The new edition of the Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV), designed exclusively for all-electric driving, underlines its claim to leadership with an increase in driving performance combined with a significantly extended range. The new BMW iX now achieves a WLTP range of up to 701 kilometres (435 miles), which is outstanding in the competitive environment. It is yet another fascinating example of the effectiveness of the BMW EfficientDynamics package of measures and technologies. Innovations in the field of BMW eDrive technology go hand in hand with specific exterior and interior design modifications that emphasise the sporty character of the new BMW iX.

Thanks to the consistent further development of the performance electronics and the fine-tuning of the wheel bearings and tyres, among other things, fuel consumption in the statutory WLTP test cycle has been improved by more than 8 per cent (best case scenario, depending on model and equipment). In the case of the new BMW iX xDrive60, this corresponds to an increase in range of around 60 kilometres (37 miles).

New model designations reflect the BMW iX's additional performance. It will be available from spring 2025 as the BMW iX xDrive45 (power consumption combined according to WLTP: 21.8 kWh/100 km (62 miles); CO₂ class: A), the BMW iX xDrive60 (power consumption combined according to WLTP: 21.9 kWh/100 km (62 miles); CO₂ class: A) and the BMW iX M70 xDrive (power consumption combined according to WLTP: 23.5 kWh/100 km (62 miles); CO₂ class: A), worldwide. Key markets for the new BMW iX are the USA, UK and Germany. It will continue to be produced at the BMW Group plant in Dingolfing. The BMW Group's largest production plant in Europe is the company's centre of competence for the production of electric drives and at the same time the lead plant for the premium and luxury class models.

Exterior: Striking presence, M Sport package as a new option.

The exterior of the new BMW iX has an expressive presence and monolithic appearance with characteristic SAV proportions, a design language reduced to the essentials and clearly defined surfaces. The striking front design is characterised in particular by the redesigned BMW radiator grille with a particularly filigree frame and a structure of vertical and diagonal lines in its interior. The BMW Iconic Glow kidney grille with contour lighting (standard for the new BMW iX M70 xDrive) is now available as a new option.

The headlights have also been redesigned with vertical elements for daytime running lights and turn indicators. The standard equipment of the new BMW iX includes adaptive LED headlights with cornering light function and new city lights. The structure of the BMW kidney grille is echoed in the diagonal lines of the headlight covers.

The front and rear aprons of the new BMW iX have an almost seamless design and a higher proportion of body-colour painted surfaces, giving them a sporty, elegant appearance as standard. The M Sport package, now available as an option for the all-electric SAV, emphasises the dynamic character of the vehicle with powerful lines, striking air intakes at the front and vertical reflectors at the rear.

In conjunction with the optionally available M Sport package Pro, the new BMW iX is equipped with dark M Shadow Line headlights and rear lights. The series' top model stands out even more than the other variants. The new BMW iX M70 xDrive comes as standard with the design features of the M Sport package and the M Sport package Pro, including a model-specific BMW kidney grille with M logo, black exterior mirror caps and exclusive 22-inch M light-alloy wheels.

The range also includes the new finishes Arctic Race Blue metallic, Dune Grey metallic, Carbon Black metallic, BMW Individual Frozen Deep Grey metallic, BMW Individual Frozen Pure Grey metallic, Tanzanite Blue metallic and Space Silver metallic (available from summer 2025). The BMW Individual Exterior Line Titanium Bronze is also available as a further option for the BMW iX xDrive45 and the BMW iX xDrive60.

Performance enhancement for all model variants.

With an electric motor on both the front and rear axle, all variants of the new BMW iX feature electric all-wheel drive. The drive system has been fine-tuned and the power electronics further developed to deliver noticeably more power. The new BMW iX xDrive45 delivers a system output that has been increased by 60 kW/82 hp to 300 kW/408 hp. The added power results in a 1.0 second improvement in acceleration from zero to 100 km/h (62 mph) to 5.1 seconds. The new BMW iX xDrive60 has a power output increase of 15 kW/21 hp to 400 kW/544 hp and accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 4.6 seconds. Both models have an electronically limited top speed of 200 km/h (124 mph).

More than ever, the new BMW iX M70 xDrive offers particularly fascinating performance characteristics. The drive of the BMW M vehicle delivers 30 kW/40 hp up to 485 kW/659 hp in My Mode Sport and a maximum torque of 1,100 Nm (811 ft-lb), which is available when Launch Control is activated. The new BMW iX M70 xDrive accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 3.8 seconds. Using the "1-foot rollout" method*, the time taken to sprint to 100 km/h (62 mph) is 3.5 seconds. The new BMW iX M70 xDrive reaches a top speed of 250 km/h (155 mph).

Unique in this segment: A range of up to 701 kilometres (435 miles).

New battery cell technology increases the energy content of the high-voltage battery for the BMW iX xDrive45 by around 30 per cent to 94.8 kWh. The high-voltage batteries of the other model variants provide a usable energy content of 109.1 kWh (BMW iX xDrive60) and 108.9 kWh (BMW iX M70 xDrive).

In addition, a new inverter technology for the power electronics of all model variants optimises the power density of the drive system. This ensures particularly high efficiency in the transfer of energy from the high-voltage battery to the electric motor. In combination with the higher energy content of the battery for the new BMW iX xDrive45 and other efficiency-enhancing measures for all variants, this results in a range increase of up to 40 per cent, depending on the model. With a WLTP range of 563 to 701 kilometres (350 to 435 miles), the new BMW iX xDrive60 sets a new benchmark in its competitive environment. The ranges of the other models increase to 490 to 602 kilometres (305 to 374 miles) for the BMW iX xDrive45 and 521 to 600 kilometres (324 to 373 miles for the BMW iX M70 xDrive.

Adaptive recuperation contributes to increased efficiency while driving. The MAX RANGE function can also increase the range remaining before the next charging stop by up to 25 per cent.

Even more efficiency when charging the high-voltage battery.

The Combined Charging Unit of the new BMW iX xDrive45 now enables direct current charging with an increased output of 175 kW. The maximum charging power of the two other model variants is 195 kW. Optimised pre-conditioning of the high-voltage battery and heating of 

the storage system using the heat pump from the vehicle's air-conditioning system ensure particularly efficient charging times. In addition, the charging current control has been further developed in order to make the best possible use of the high charging capacities. The charging socket outlet of the new BMW iX now has a release button.

Alternating current can be charged with a maximum power of 22 kW. In addition, the BMW iX is suitable for the Plug & Charge Multi Contract function. The Connected Home Charging option enables solar- and load-optimised charging as well as cost-optimised charging based on a dynamic electricity tariff. The range now also includes the new BMW Wallbox Plus.

In addition to the increased range, the new BMW iX also offers an improved user experience for planning routes with optimised charging. Thanks to the intuitive user interface, customers can enter their destination in advance in the My BMW App, as well as their preferred departure and arrival times and any desired stopovers. The route suggested by the BMW Maps navigation system can then be customised to include charging stations. Preferred charging station providers and the desired charging status on arrival at stopovers and at the destination can be determined just as conveniently. In an optimised route view, the customer is provided with precise information about the availability of charging stations, the required charging times and their impact on the arrival time at the destination, the costs for charging and the infrastructure in the vicinity of the respective charging station.

Optimised chassis and suspension set-up, new M light-alloy wheels.

The new chassis and suspension set-up for the new BMW iX is based on the increased performance of the drive system and the changed weight balance as a result of optimised battery technology. In addition, a hydraulic rear axle support bearing ensures an optimised balance between sporty dynamics and ride comfort. Weight- and friction-optimised wheel bearings and tyres with reduced rolling resistance and the highest efficiency label A+ also contribute to the increased efficiency of the new BMW iX.

The suspension technology of the BMW iX includes a double-wishbone front axle, a five-link rear axle and electric steering with Servotronic function and variable ratio. The new BMW iX M70 xDrive also features adaptive two-axle ride level control with electronically controlled shock absorbers, M specific tuning and M specific anti-roll bars, Integral Active Steering and a sports brake system with red-painted brake callipers. The standard equipment of all model variants now also includes HDC (Hill Descent Control) and the option to deactivate DSC (Dynamic Stability Control).

As part of the M Sport package, M Sport package Pro or as standard on the top-of-the-line model, 21- and 22-inch M light-alloy wheels are available in four new variants. The new range of 23-inch light-alloy wheels is unique in the competitive environment. The 22-inch and 23-inch wheels are combined with tyres with integrated foam absorbers for improved noise insulation.

Wide variety of systems for automated driving and parking.

The driver assistance systems available in the new BMW iX set new standards in terms of functionality and reliability. The standard equipment includes Driving Assistant Plus including Active Cruise Control with Stop & Go function that can be used at speeds of up to 180 km/h, front collision warning with brake intervention and Parking Assistant with Reversing Assistant and Reversing Assist Camera.

The highlight of the optional range is the Highway Assistant with Level 2+ functionality, which can relieve the driver of the steering task on dual carriageways with physically separated lanes at speeds of up to 130 km/h (81 mph). The system also includes the unique Active Lane Change Assistant with eye activation. The Parking Assistant Professional, which controls parking and manoeuvring via smartphone, is also available as an option.

Interior: Progressive luxury, refined sportiness.

The characteristic interior ambience of the BMW iX, characterised by generous space and progressive luxury, can now be combined with the sporty design features of the M Sport package. The new M multifunction seats in perforated microfibre/Sensatec or optionally with natural leather upholstery offer enhanced lateral support and a striking design. The package also includes the M leather steering wheel, the two-tone instrument panel with M logo, the Dark Silver trim finishers, the anthracite headlining, the M pedals and the centre console with high-gloss black finish. Optional and together with an M leather steering wheel Dark silver trim finishers are also available in conjunction with the standard interior.

The standard equipment of the new BMW iX includes an alarm system, the Welcome and Goodbye animation, adaptive LED headlights, Comfort Access, heated seats for driver and front passenger, heated steering wheel, Driving Assistant Plus as well as the BMW Live Cockpit Professional and the Harman Kardon Surround Sound System. The BMW iX M70 xDrive also comes with Integral Active Steering, adaptive two-axle ride level control, BMW Iconic Glow radiator grille, M Sport package Pro and solar control glazing as standard.

Other optional extras for all model variants include the Sky Lounge panoramic glass roof, the Clear & Bold interior applications, an automatic soft-close function for the doors, active seat ventilation, the Heat Comfort package, the Bowers & Wilkins Diamond Surround Sound System, the BMW Individual Exterior Line Titanium Bronze, DC charging with up to 22 kW (standard for the BMW iX M70 xDrive) as well as an electrically extendable and retractable tow hitch.

BMW iDrive with state-of-the-art digital services.

Based on the BMW Operating System 8.5, BMW iDrive not only offers intuitive operation using the touch function on the BMW Curved Display and voice control with the BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant, but also the use of digital services such as video streaming and in-car gaming.

5G mobile radio aerials deliver optimised connectivity. The BMW ID and the My BMW App provide a personalised user experience. In addition, the BMW Digital Key allows for particularly simple and convenient setup using the new Setup Card.

* Value with "rollout" deducted: With this alternative method of measurement, timekeeping does not begin until the vehicle has left a light barrier. The distance not taken into account in the measurement (the "rollout") is 1 foot = 30.48 cm.

All specifications and derivations are provisional.

All the model variants, equipment levels, technical specifications, consumption and emission values described correspond to what is available on the automotive market in Germany. Dimensions refer to a vehicle fitted with basic equipment in Germany, depending on the selected wheel and tyre size as well as selected optional equipment. These may change according to how the car is configured.

Official data on power consumption were determined in accordance with the prescribed WLTP measurement procedure and comply with the Passenger Car Energy Consumption Labelling Ordinance. Go to www.bmw.de for more information.

Munich. Bavarian premium carmaker BMW is using an elaborately orchestrated brand campaign to shine the spotlight on its wide range of fully electric vehicles, which now comprises the BMW i4, BMW i5, BMW i7, BMW iX1, BMW iX2, BMW iX3 and BMW iX. The multi-channel campaign is focusing communications on values that have forever been associated with the BMW brand – exceptional dynamics, innovative technologies, unmistakable design and supreme driving comfort.

The global campaign relies primarily on video formats. The centrepiece of the campaign launch was a 30-second TV commercial, which has been spun off across the brand’s social media channels – YouTube and Instagram, in particular – and, with the help of paid media, in the individual markets. The commercial invites the viewer to discover the “soul” and character of BMW along a fast-paced journey through the history of the brand: from victories in motor racing via the brand’s distinctive design language and expertise, and its time-honoured talent for innovation, all the way to the transformation to electric mobility. The joy of driving has been inextricably linked with BMW since the company was formed – and this commercial brings it to life through the brand’s all-electric models.

The use of the hit single “Beautiful Things” by US singer Benson Boone turns up the emotionality of the commercial another notch. The track has exceeded 1.3 billion streams on Spotify alone and has also been a trending sound on social media platform TikTok for several months.

The emotionally charged hero film is accompanied by a series of other assets. For example, five reels have been produced which focus on the brand’s core competencies – Performance, Heritage, Innovation, Motorsport and Community. And additional reels telling inspirational social-media stories on the various fully electric models round off the multi-channel campaign.

“With this emotional campaign we are celebrating the unique soul of our brand, which has defined us since day one and which we have also carried into our fully electric BMW vehicles,” says Bernd Körber, Senior Vice President BMW Brand and Product Management. “After all, our customers represent the true essence of BMW, and they experience pure driving pleasure in all of our models.”

As well as the video content, a selection of just under 40 photo assets showcase the fully electric models to spectacular effect in natural surroundings – at different times of day and in different locations. Atmospheric lighting, which enriches the motifs with warm colours and mildly exaggerated contrasts, brings a very distinct sense of approachability to the images. The exclusive features of the individual models, such as the two-tone paint finish of the BMW i7, are depicted realistically. Alongside numerous individual images emphasising the pure joy of electric driving, a handful of pack shots of the BMW i4, BMW i5, BMW i7, BMW iX1, BMW iX2, BMW iX3 and BMW iX in their various configurations highlight the rich diversity of vehicles offered by BMW across the relevant segments.

https://youtu.be/-8UPg6hyDBg 

Munich. Additions to the line-up of drive systems and the range of optional extras are set to further increase the appeal and diversity of the BMW product range from spring 2024. The BMW i5 Sedan and BMW iX2 fully electric models will each be available from March 2024 with an additional drive system variant. The drive system offerings for the BMW X2 and BMW XM have also been expanded. The innovative Highway Assistant will bring increased comfort levels over longer journeys to more of the brand’s model series. And additional exterior paint finishes will be offered for the BMW 5 Series Sedan, BMW X2 and BMW iX2. Customers will also be able to order the business sedan with new variants of the BMW Individual Merino leather trim.

Attractive new features will also be introduced in spring 2024 in the area of digital services. These include easier use of the voice assistant Siri (as part of the integration of the Apple iPhone into cars specified with BMW Operating System 9), and the optimised display of ratings for charging stations for fully electric and plug-in hybrid BMW models. The steady expansion of the range of functions for the My BMW App also continues.

BMW i5 xDrive40: third fully electric variant of the business sedan.

A third fully electric variant will be added to the new BMW 5 Series Sedan line-up in March 2024. The new BMW i5 xDrive40 Sedan (electric power consumption, combined: 20.0 – 17.2 kWh/100 km in the WLTP cycle) has two highly integrated electric drive units at the front and rear axle which together develop a system output of up to 290 kW/394 hp and peak torque of 590 Nm (435 lb-ft). Underpinned by the resultant electric all-wheel drive, the BMW i5 xDrive40 Sedan accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 5.4 seconds. Its top speed is limited to 215 km/h (134 mph).

The third fully electric model variant of the new business sedan stores its energy in a high-voltage battery positioned deep in the vehicle floor. The battery delivers 81.2 kWh of usable energy. The car’s Combined Charging Unit enables AC charging at a rate of 11 kW as standard and 22 kW as an option. And it also allows DC charging at fast-charging stations at up to 205 kW. This means the range of the BMW i5 xDrive40 Sedan can be increased by 156 kilometres (97 miles) in the space of ten minutes. The likewise standard Plug & Charge Multi Contract function enables automatic authentication of the car at public charging points. The range of the new BMW i5 xDrive40 Sedan as calculated in the WLTP cycle is 463 – 538 kilometres (288 – 334 miles).

Additional exterior paint finishes can be specified for all model variants of the new BMW 5 Series Sedan from March 2024. The spectrum of colours will now also include the BMW Individual Frozen Portimao Blue metallic and BMW Individual Malachite Green metallic variants. At the same time, the business sedan will also be offered with extremely exclusive BMW Individual special paint finishes. BMW Individual has come up with around 150 eye-catching shades (solid, metallic and matt) for this product area. All BMW Individual special paint finishes stand out with their impressive depth of colour and exceptional lustre. Customers can unlock an overview of the variants for the new BMW 5 Series Sedan using the BMW Individual Visualizer, which can be accessed via a link in the vehicle configurator.

Added to which, extra variants of the seat and interior surfaces for the new BMW 5 Series Sedan are also available. If the optional comfort seats have been specified, the BMW Individual Merino leather trim can also be specified in the bi-colour variants Dark Violet/Atlas Grey and Taupe Grey/Atlas Grey from March 2024.

New entry-level variant for the BMW iX2; launch of the BMW X2 xDrive20d.

BMW’s current model offensive in the area of electric mobility also brings additional variety to the premium compact segment. A new entry-level variant of the fully electric BMW iX2 will go on sale in March 2024. The new BMW iX2 eDrive20 (electric power consumption, combined: 16.9 – 15.3 kWh/100 km in the WLTP cycle) takes a particularly economical route to delivering locally emission-free driving pleasure in a compact Sports Activity Coupé (SAC). Powered by a 150 kW/204 hp electric motor at the front axle, it sprints from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 8.6 seconds and posts a range of 439 – 478 kilometres (273 – 297 miles) in the WLTP cycle. Its top speed is limited to 170 km/h (106 mph).

The high-voltage battery in the new BMW iX2 eDrive20 serves up 64.78 kWh of usable energy and can be charged from AC sources at 11 kW as standard and up to 22 kW as an option. DC charging is possible at up to 130 kW. Thanks to extremely efficient charging software and predictive heat management capability, brief stops are enough to significantly increase the battery charge. In ten minutes hooked up to a fast-charging station, the BMW iX2 eDrive20 can take on sufficient energy to boost its range by 120 kilometres (75 miles). The BMW iX2 eDrive20 is also equipped for using the Plug & Charge Multi Contract function as standard.

Lining up alongside the new entry-level variant of the BMW iX2 is the new BMW X2 xDrive20d (fuel consumption, combined: 5.2 – 4.8 litres/100 km [54.3 – 58.9 mpg imp]; CO₂ emissions, combined: 136 – 125 g/km in the WLTP cycle). The second diesel variant of the compact SAC is distinguished by even more rapid power delivery and even greater efficiency courtesy of 48V mild hybrid technology. Its 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine links up with an electric motor integrated into the seven-speed Steptronic transmission with double clutch. The motor serves as a crankshaft-driven starter generator and can both ease the load on the diesel engine and act in unison with it. The drive system develops maximum output of 120 kW/163 hp (developed by the combination of the combustion engine with up to 110 kW/150 hp and the electric motor with up to 14 kW/19 hp) and peak torque of 400 Nm / 295 lb-ft (developed by the combination of the combustion engine with up to 360 Nm / 265 lb-ft and the electric motor with up to 55 Nm / 41 lb-ft), all of which is channelled to the road via the intelligent all-wheel-drive system BMW xDrive. This allows the BMW X2 xDrive20d to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 8.6 seconds. Top speed is 207 km/h (129 mph).

From March 2024, all model variants of the new BMW X2 and new BMW iX2 will also be available with an expanded range of exterior paint finishes. Frozen Black metallic is a new addition to the selection.

BMW XM 50e: high performance with maximum efficiency.

As the latest offshoot of the first ever electrified high-performance model from BMW M GmbH, the new BMW XM 50e (fuel consumption, combined: 1.7 – 1.3 litres/100 km [166.2 – 217.3 mpg imp]; electric power consumption, combined: 32.2 – 31.5 kWh/100 km; CO₂ emissions, combined: 37 – 30 g/km in the WLTP cycle) blends signature M dynamism, extrovert design and progressive interior luxury with maximum efficiency. Its M HYBRID drive system is composed of a six-cylinder in-line petrol engine and an electric motor integrated, together with its power electronics, into the eight-speed Steptronic Sport transmission. This combination produces system output of 350 kW/476 hp (developed by the combination of the combustion engine with up to 230 kW/313 hp and the electric motor with up to 145 kW/197 hp) and maximum system torque of 700 Nm / 516 lb-ft (developed by the combination of the combustion engine with up to 450 Nm / 332 lb-ft and the electric motor with up to 280 Nm / 206 lb-ft).

The latest version of the 3.0-litre combustion engine fitted in the BMW XM 50e owes its enhanced performance characteristics among other things to the Miller combustion cycle, dual injection, an exhaust manifold integrated into the cylinder head and VANOS variable camshaft timing, which now works electrically. The electric motor has a pre-gearing stage patented by BMW, which allows the effective torque at the transmission input for the motor to be increased to 450 Nm (332 lb-ft). The top speed of the high-performance model – which is also equipped with the all-wheel-drive system M xDrive – is an electronically limited 250 km/h (155 mph). Thanks to an electric range of 77 – 83 kilometres (48 – 52 miles) in the WLTP cycle, the BMW XM 50e can cover much of its everyday mileage – e.g. in urban centres – with zero local emissions. And it can also be driven on electric power alone beyond the city limits at speeds of up to 140 km/h (87 mph).

The most efficient version of the new M HYBRID system comes together with the extraordinary presence of the unmistakable high-performance model in the Sports Activity Vehicle segment. The model-specific design features of the new variant include the black accent band along the sides of the car, plus a surround for the BMW kidney grille and trim detailing for the rear diffuser (both in Pearl-effect Chrome), exhaust tailpipe trim in Black high-gloss and silver-coloured bordering for the model badge. Customers wishing to bring an extra personal touch to the interior of their new BMW XM 50e – which also offers a unique combination of modern sports car flair and extravagant luxury with its M-specific cockpit, M multifunction seats, sculptural headliner and M Lounge in the rear compartment – can specify features including exclusive Vintage leather for the upper section of the instrument panel and door trim panels.

Highway Assistant: innovative Level 2 functionality for more models.

Relaxed travel over long distances and an impressive experience of semi-automated driving are the specialities of the Highway Assistant, which made its debut in the new BMW 5 Series Sedan and is now also available for other current BMW models.

As an additional function of the Steering and Lane Control Assistant included in the optional Driving Assistant Professional, the Highway Assistant takes over the vehicle’s speed control, distance control and steering on motorways with structurally separated carriageways when travelling at up to 135 km/h (84 mph). The driver can take their hands off the steering wheel and put them in a comfortable position, provided they continue to pay attention to what is happening on the road and are able to take over the steering again at any time. This Level 2 – as determined by the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) – semi-automated driving function will also be available for the BMW 7 Series luxury sedan, BMW iX, BMW XM, BMW X5, BMW X6 and BMW X7 from spring 2024.

The Active Lane Change Assistant with eye confirmation included as part of the new Highway Assistant adds another layer to the semi-automated driving experience. As soon as the traffic situation permits, it is capable of performing the necessary steering movements for an overtaking manoeuvre, for example, and adjusting the vehicle’s speed as required. Plus, for the first time, the driver is able to initiate a lane change suggested by this system by simply looking in the exterior mirror to confirm it.

New digital services, My BMW App with additional functions.

Among the digital services available for the first time from spring 2024 is the extended smartphone integration for vehicles equipped with BMW Operating System 9. This enables the Siri voice assistant for the Apple iPhone to be activated directly by voice command and without needing to also press the push-to-talk button. Elsewhere, the cloud-based navigation system BMW Maps now boasts improved display of information on charging stations. The available images and ratings are shown both in the list of search results and in the detailed display. The charging station ratings will now be shown clearly on a scale of zero to five stars. 

Added to which, in numerous European countries the BMW iDrive display and control/operation system in many current models also enables digital payment of parking fees and – in Germany – also fuel top-ups from inside the car. As with payment of parking fees, this uses the credit card information pre-stored in the vehicle apps.

As a universal digital interface for data exchange between the customer and their car, the My BMW App offers an ever-expanding number of functions. From spring 2024, Comfort Access with the BMW Digital Key Plus will be integrated into the My BMW App in vehicles equipped with BMW Operating System 8, 8.5 or 9. In addition, the map view for selecting navigation destinations imported into the vehicle has been newly designed. This also improves the search function and the visibility of the most relevant content. Map and routing functions will in future be proposed based on current vehicle or user contexts.

Finally, the new E-mobility Analysis function will also be added to the My Trips menu item in the My BMW App. Based on the customer’s driving behaviour, this function proposes the BMW model with all-electric drive system most suited to them. These recommendations are intended to help spark interest among users of combustion-engined vehicles in switching to an electric vehicle.

^{* All new models due to enter production in March 2024.
All figures relating to fuel/electric power consumption and emissions are provisional.}

^{All of the stated model variants, equipment features, technical data and fuel/electric power consumption and emissions figures relate to the offering in the German market.}

^{Official fuel consumption, CO2 emissions, electric power consumption and electric range figures were determined based on the prescribed measurement procedure in accordance with European Regulation (EC) 2007/715 in the version applicable. Where a range is shown, the WLTP figures take into account the impact of any optional extras.}

^{Only official figures based on the WLTP procedure are available for new models that have been type tested since 01.01.2021. In addition, according to EU Regulation 2022/195, the NEDC values will no longer be included in the EC certificates of conformity as of 01.01.2023. Further information on the WLTP and NEDC measurement procedures can also be found at www.bmw.de/wltp.}

^{Further information on official fuel consumption figures and specific CO2 emission values of new passenger cars is included in the following guideline: 'Leitfaden über den Kraftstoffverbrauch, die CO2-Emissionen und den Stromverbrauch neuer Personenkraftwagen ' (Guide to the fuel economy, CO2 emissions and electric power consumption of new passenger cars), which can be obtained free of charge from all dealerships, from Deutsche Automobil Treuhand GmbH (DAT), Hellmuth-Hirth-Str. 1, 73760 Ostfildern-Scharnhausen and at https://www.dat.de/co2.}

In the event of enquiries please contact:

Corporate Communications

Cypselus von Frankenberg, Product Communication BMW Automobiles

Telephone: +49-89-382-30641

E-mail: Cypselus.von-Frankenberg@bmw.de

Alexandra Landers, Head of Product and Brand Communication BMW

Telephone: +49-89-382-30871

E-mail: Alexandra.Landers@bmw.de

Internet: https://newsroom.bmwgroup.com/global/en

E-mail: presse@bmw.de

^{The BMW Group}

^{With its four brands BMW, MINI, Rolls-Royce and BMW Motorrad, the BMW Group is the world’s leading premium manufacturer of automobiles and motorcycles and also provides premium financial and mobility services. The BMW Group production network comprises over 30 production sites worldwide; the company has a global sales network in more than 140 countries.}

^{In 2022, the BMW Group sold nearly 2.4 million passenger vehicles and more than 202,000 motorcycles worldwide. The profit before tax in the financial year 2022 was € 23.5 billion on revenues amounting to
€ 142.6 billion. As of 31 December 2022, the BMW Group had a workforce of 149,475 employees.}

^{The success of the BMW Group has always been based on long-term thinking and responsible action. The company set the course for the future at an early stage and consistently makes sustainability and efficient resource management central to its strategic direction, from the supply chain through production to the end of the use phase of all products.}

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Munich. New model variants and innovations in the areas of electrification and digitalisation are set to further increase the appeal and diversity of the BMW product range from summer 2023. At the pinnacle of the model portfolio, the arrival of a third variant of the all-electric BMW i7 expands the brand’s offering in the luxury segment. At the same time, the Multi-Contract Plug & Charge and MAX RANGE functions will now be available for all BMW i7 and BMW iX model variants, making electric mobility even more convenient. And from August 2023, customers will have the choice of a second, extremely powerful six-cylinder in-line diesel engine for the new BMW X5 and BMW X6.

The highlight as far as digitalisation is concerned is the introduction of the upgraded BMW iDrive featuring QuickSelect and BMW Operating System 8.5 for a large number of current models. The capabilities of the BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant will also be enhanced once again for these models in summer 2023. The new exterior colours and upholstery variants for several of the current models will offer additional scope for customisation. Meanwhile, the M Sport package Pro will be added to the choice of optional extras for the BMW X1 and BMW iX1.

BMW i7 eDrive50: an extra boost for electric mobility in the luxury segment.

It has taken just a few months for the all-electric BMW i7 to establish itself as the epitome of progressive drive technology in the luxury segment worldwide. From July 2023, the new BMW i7 eDrive50 (electric power consumption combined: 20.3 – 19.1 kWh/100 km in the WLTP cycle) will offer customers another way to enjoy supreme long-distance comfort combined with trailblazing innovations and emission-free driving pleasure. The third model variant in the BMW i7 line-up comes with the latest BMW eDrive technology in the form of a highly integrated electric drive unit delivering maximum output of 335 kW/455 hp and peak torque of 650 Nm (479 lb-ft).

This enables the new BMW i7 eDrive50 to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 5.5 seconds. Top speed is electronically limited to 205 km/h (127 mph). Thanks to its highly efficient electric motor and the outstanding energy density of its high-voltage battery, the new BMW i7 eDrive50 achieves a WLTP-calculated range of 575 – 611 kilometres (357 – 380 miles).

Multi-Contract Plug & Charge and MAX RANGE: new functions for making electric mobility even more convenient.

To coincide with the ongoing expansion of the all-electric model line-up, new functions are being made available for all BMW i7 and BMW iX variants in summer 2023 that will make enjoying locally emission-free driving pleasure even easier and more convenient. The Multi-Contract Plug & Charge function will be added to the BMW Charging portfolio, enabling automatic vehicle authentication at public charging points. The exchange of data between vehicle and charging point does away with the need for a charging card or app. As the amount of electricity fed into the high-voltage battery is also billed automatically, Plug & Charge makes recharging even more straightforward than refuelling conventionally powered vehicles. The BMW Group is the first carmaker in the world to incorporate multi-contract functionality into this new feature. Customers are able to store their individual vehicle electricity contracts from multiple suppliers in digital form in their car, allowing them to use the charging points of these operators with the greatest of ease. The new Multi-Contract Plug & Charge function can be made available via Remote Software Upgrade for all BMW i7 models manufactured since July 2022 and all BMW iX models built since March 2023.

The MAX RANGE function for the electric drive system in the BMW i7 and BMW iX is also new and gives drivers greater flexibility when looking for a public charging station. It is operational in the My Mode Efficient and can be used to increase range by up to 25 per cent by both limiting drive power and top speed and scaling back comfort functions. The MAX RANGE function was mainly devised for situations where drivers are unable to recharge mid-journey as originally planned because, for example, the charging station they were heading for is out of service. Activating the MAX RANGE function extends the range by a comfortable margin for the journey to an alternative charging point for the high-voltage battery. This is achieved by, among other things, limiting the vehicle’s top speed to 90 km/h (56 mph) at the same time as disabling features such as the climate control, seat heating and steering wheel heating. The new MAX RANGE function can be made available via Remote Software Upgrade for all BMW i7 models manufactured since July 2022 and all BMW iX models built since March 2023.

The high-voltage battery in the BMW iX can now also be charged more efficiently thanks to the same upgraded charging software already used in the BMW i7. Here, careful control of the charging rate results in shorter charging times. The new charging software can also be imported into all BMW iX models manufactured since March 2023 via Remote Software Upgrade.

In addition to this, the various digital services offered for charging the high-voltage battery will be enhanced for all electrified BMW models in summer 2023. When searching for charging points in the navigation system, for instance, the entries for several stations within a single charging park will now be combined. In the future, the charging history will also show the total costs for a month and allow charging operations to be filtered by location.

The BMW Maps navigation system will also offer improved functions for calculating a charging-optimised route in the all-electric BMW i7, BMW iX, BMW i4 and BMW iX1 models. The driver’s preferred minimum charge level for when the vehicle reaches mid-journey stops and the final destination can now be adjusted in increments of five per cent and incorporated into the route planning. In the future, the system will also be able to give preference to charging stations operated by selected providers and exclude others from the route planning at the customer’s request. In addition, the user is given even more detailed information on their selected charging stations, including availability at that moment in time, the connector types supported and payment options, plus the presence of sanitary facilities, food outlets or playgrounds in their vicinity. The new charging-optimised route planning functions can also be retrofitted via Remote Software Upgrade.

Highly efficient and big on torque: the new six-cylinder in-line diesel engine with 48V mild hybrid technology for the BMW X5 and BMW X6.

A second six-cylinder in-line diesel engine will be added to the line-up of drive systems for the BMW X5 and BMW X6 in August 2023. The unit in the new BMW X5 xDrive40d (fuel consumption, combined: 8.4 – 7.3 litres/100 km [33.6 – 38.7 mpg imp]; CO₂ emissions, combined: 221 – 190 g/km in the WLTP cycle) and new BMW X6 xDrive40d (fuel consumption, combined: 8.2 – 7.3 litres/100 km [34.5 – 38.7 mpg imp]; CO₂ emissions, combined: 214 – 191 g/km in the WLTP cycle) is the most powerful diesel variant in the new modular generation of Efficient Dynamics engines.

New steel pistons enable a higher combustion pressure, and the effectiveness of the oil separation process has also been enhanced. The BMW TwinPower Turbo technology comprises a two-stage turbocharging system and a common-rail direct injection system with new solenoid valve injectors. These send the fuel into the combustion chambers with up to 12 injections per power stroke and maximum pressure of 2,500 bar. 48V mild hybrid technology in the form of a crankshaft-driven starter generator integrated into the eight-speed Steptronic Sport transmission gives the 3.0-litre engine even sharper power delivery and increases its efficiency.

The drive system generates maximum output of 259 kW/352 hp and peak torque of 720 Nm (531 lb-ft). The impressive pulling power of the new six-cylinder in-line diesel engine, the eight-speed Steptronic Sport transmission and the intelligent all-wheel-drive system join forces to produce potent sprinting ability. The new BMW X5 xDrive40d and new BMW X6 xDrive40d both accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 5.5 seconds.

BMW iDrive with QuickSelect for further BMW models.

The upgraded BMW iDrive with QuickSelect is being rolled out with BMW Operating System 8.5 across additional models*. The latest generation of BMW iDrive brings a newly designed home screen and QuickSelect functionality to make selecting and operating numerous functions and digital services even more intuitive and comfortable. This also brings an improved menu structure that takes its cues from consumer electronics devices plus a range of new digital services and apps.

By showing the right information in the right place, the new BMW iDrive helps to deliver a focused, assured driving experience. BMW iDrive with QuickSelect also teams up with the BMW Curved Display and BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant, and so focuses squarely on operation using the touchscreen and natural language.

BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant with additional skills.

In all BMW models that are equipped with BMW Operating System 8.5 or can be upgraded with the system*, the BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant will gain additional skills from summer 2023. Depending on the vehicle specification and the driving situation, the digital companion will be able to suggest deactivating the speed limiting function, switching to Sport mode or activating the Assisted Driving Modes. Naturally formulated spoken instructions can also be used to adjust the seat position. In fully electric models with the relevant specification, the MAX RANGE function can be activated and the BMW IconicSounds Electric controlled with just a single spoken command.

Added to which, the BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant will now be able to proactively explain previously unused functions to the driver, including storing favourite radio stations and using spoken commands to adjust the air conditioning or the brightness of the BMW Curved Display. The graphic depicting the digital companion during exchanges with the car’s occupants now gains ten additional transformation symbols.

M Sport package Pro now also available for the new BMW X1 and new BMW iX1.

From July 2023, the range of optional equipment available for the new BMW X1 and new BMW iX1 will now include a model-specific M Sport package Pro. This option will be offered as an extension of the M Sport package and helps to shine an even brighter spotlight on the dynamic character of the compact Sports Activity Vehicle.

This new option includes extended M High-gloss Shadowline trim, the M rear spoiler, the M Sport braking system with red or – if desired – dark blue callipers, plus M seat belts. Specifying the optional Adaptive LED Headlights also brings M lights Shadowline.

New for the BMW X1, BMW iX1 and BMW 2 Series Active Tourer: seat surfaces in Veganza perforated.

New upholstery variants available from July 2023 will underscore the premium character inside the new BMW X1, new BMW iX1 and new BMW 2 Series Active Tourer. Seat surfaces in Veganza perforated trim can be ordered as an option for these models.

This vegan surface material with leather-like properties can be specified in Black, Mocha or Oyster. The M Alcantara/Veganza combination in Black with blue contrast stitching is also available for cars with the M Sport package.

New exterior colours for the BMW 3 Series Sedan, BMW 2 Series Coupé and BMW M2.

The introduction of new exterior colours for current BMW models gives customers additional scope for individualising the exterior of their car. The BMW Individual paint finishes Frozen Pure Grey metallic and Frozen Portimao Blue metallic will be available for the BMW 3 Series Sedan, BMW 2 Series Coupé and high-performance BMW M2 (fuel consumption, combined: 9.8 – 9.6 litres/100 km [28.8 – 29.4 mpg imp]; CO₂ emissions, combined: 222 – 218 g/km in the WLTP cycle) from July 2023.

At a glance: The new BMW models for summer 2023*

*All new models due to enter production in July / August 2023. All figures relating to fuel/electric power consumption and CO₂ emissions are provisional. All of the stated model variants, equipment features, technical data and fuel/electric power consumption and emissions figures relate to the offering in the German market.

Munich. Innovations in the areas of individualisation, digitalisation and electrification will bring further appeal to the BMW model range in spring 2023. The BMW crystal headlights Iconic Glow celebrated their world premiere in the new BMW 7 Series, and this exclusive option will also be available for the BMW X7 from April 2023. Plus, additions will be made to the selection of exterior paint shades and interior appointments for the BMW 7 Series. Both these luxury models and the fully electric BMW iX will also be offered with the extended Parking Assistant Professional, which enables the Remote Control Parking and Manoeuvre Assistant functions to be controlled via the My BMW App using an Apple iPhone.

BMW Operating System 8 and the latest-generation BMW iDrive multi-sensory vehicle experience including BMW Curved Display will be introduced into the BMW 4 Series models and BMW M4 line-up in March 2023. And many all-electric models from BMW will come with the charging cable Professional (mode 3) designed for an AC charging capacity of up to 22 kW.

BMW 7 Series: new exterior paint finishes and interior appointments.

From March 2023, all members of the BMW 7 Series range will be available with additional individualisation options for the exterior and interior. Among the new arrivals is the BMW Individual Frozen Tanzanite Blue metallic exterior paint shade. Plus, customers will also be able to combine the exclusive BMW Individual two-tone paintwork with BMW Individual special paint finishes. The new M Merino leather with exclusive elements in Taupe Grey/Night Blue and Caramel/Atlas Grey, and BMW Individual Merino leather/cashmere wool with exclusive elements in Black/Grey ensure customers can enjoy particularly stylish interior design.

New option for the BMW X7: BMW crystal headlights Iconic Glow.

Exclusive front-end styling brings heightened visual expression to BMW’s luxury models. Here, the optional BMW crystal headlights Iconic Glow – first introduced on the new BMW 7 Series and also available for the BMW X7 from April 2023 – radiate a particularly vibrant presence. With this headlights option, crystals from Swarovski positioned in the upper section of the lights and backlit by LED units perform the role of sidelights and daytime driving lights. Both when the sun is shining and at night, the crystals reflect the light in a multitude of facets. These headlights team up with the contour lighting for the BMW kidney grille to create a distinctive light signature.

From April 2023, customers will also be able to specify a new visual flourish for the rear end of the largest Sports Activity Vehicle: the optional M high-gloss Shadowline exterior trim with extended elements will now also include a rear trim strip in Black high-gloss.

BMW 7 Series, BMW X7 and BMW iX: controlling parking manoeuvres with an Apple iPhone.

The extended Parking Assistant Professional available for the BMW 7 Series, BMW X7 and BMW iX from spring 2023 brings greater comfort when parking and manoeuvring. Here, BMW employs innovative digital technology to make further advances in the area of automated driving and parking. The extended Parking Assistant Professional gives drivers the ability to guide their car into and out of parking spaces and also carry out more complex manoeuvring from outside the car via the My BMW App on their smartphone (available with My BMW App Version 2.12.x).

This functionality facilitates the use of extremely tight or hard-to-access parking spaces. For example, the driver can pause a parking process that is already underway, get out of the car and then resume the manoeuvre while they monitor the area around the car from the outside. They can then also control the car’s exit from the space from their smartphone using the Parking Assistant Professional.

Switching between controlling the car when inside it and doing so from the outside is also possible for more extensive manoeuvres using the Manoeuvre Assistant function likewise included in the Parking Assistant Professional. I.e. the driver can also operate this function from outside their car and monitor its progress using their smartphone. They can be up to six metres away from the vehicle while doing so. The Manoeuvre Assistant can record and store up to ten manoeuvres at different locations, each covering a maximum distance of 200 metres and up to a combined total of 600 metres. When the vehicle then returns to one of the starting points, the system performs all the driving tasks required in fully automated form, including acceleration, braking, steering and, if required, multiple direction and gear changes. And it can do so whether the driver remains inside the car or chooses to control the manoeuvre from outside using their Apple iPhone.

BMW iX now with manually activated heat management for the high-voltage battery, plus the Trailer Assistant.

All model variants of the purely electrically driven BMW iX will be equipped with a further developed version of the predictive heat management technology for the high-voltage battery from March 2023. As in the BMW i7, it will be possible to initiate pre-warming of the battery manually and when the navigation system’s route guidance is not active. Warming the battery ahead of a charging stop optimises the absorption of energy when topping up at a DC fast-charging station. Waste heat from the electric motors is used to adjust the temperature of the battery.

The Driving Assistant fitted as standard on the BMW iX will also include the Trailer Assistant from March 2023. This function carries out the necessary steering movements during reversing manoeuvres when a trailer is coupled to the vehicle.

BMW 4 Series and BMW M4 now with BMW Operating System 8 and BMW Curved Display.

A fresh digitalisation push will also enhance the appeal of the BMW 4 Series models and BMW M4 high-performance sports cars from spring 2023. These ultra-sporty cars for the premium midsize segment will be equipped as standard with BMW Operating System 8 and will therefore also be fitted with the control/operation system iDrive with BMW Curved Display. The fully digital screen grouping of the standard-fitted BMW Live Cockpit Plus is composed of a 12.3-inch information display behind the steering wheel and a control display with a screen diagonal of 14.9 inches. The modern cockpit design and the extended capabilities of the BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant enable a significant reduction in the number of buttons and controllers in favour of voice and touch control. An expressive welcome sound, which will also now be audible in the BMW i4 models when the driver’s door or front passenger door is opened, highlights the digital advances introduced into the interior.

All of the engines available for the BMW 4 Series Coupé, BMW 4 Series Gran Coupé and BMW 4 Series Convertible will link up as standard with an eight-speed Steptronic transmission. From March 2023, this specification will also include gearshift paddles on the steering wheel and a new selector lever in the control panel on the centre console. M high-gloss Shadowline for the side window surrounds will also be included as standard for all model variants.

The M interior trim strip in Aluminium Rhombicle anthracite added to the options list for the BMW 4 Series models and all BMW M4 Coupé and BMW M4 Convertible variants will allow customers to bring further individualisation to the interior of their cars. From March 2023, BMW M4 models can also be ordered with an instrument panel in Sensatec. And an M design graphic will be offered exclusively for the bonnet and boot lid of the BMW M4 Coupé models. From March 2023, this contrasting paint finish accentuating their distinctive sports car character will be available not only in Black high-gloss but also in Red high-gloss.

New mode 3 charging cable for many all-electric BMW models.

From spring 2023, selected BMW models with all-electric drive that support AC charging at 22 kW will be given new equipment items from the BMW Charging range to increase both efficiency and speed when charging their high-voltage batteries. All model variants of the BMW iX, the BMW i7 xDrive60 (electric power consumption combined in the WLTP cycle: 19.6 – 18.4 kWh/100 km; CO₂ emissions: 0 g/km) and the BMW iX1 xDrive30 (electric power consumption combined in the WLTP cycle: 18.1 – 16.8 kWh/100 km; CO₂ emissions: 0 g/km) will be delivered with a mode 3 charging cable Professional designed to work with charging capacity of up to 22 kW.

The new mode 3 charging cable Professional enables the use of extremely high-power AC public charging stations. The maximum usable charging capacity will now be double that possible with the mode 3 charging cable previously supplied as standard.

BMW Digital Key Plus with extended functions, new BMW Operating System 9 makes its debut.

In spring 2023, the BMW Digital Key plus already available for many current BMW models will gain new and extended functions. These include automatic vehicle unlocking when approaching the car for owners with Samsung smartphones and other smartphones running the Android operating system and the UWB (Ultra-Wideband) chip. Added to which, BMW Digital Keys shared with third parties can be activated more easily inside the car.

In an initial pilot phase, selected BMW X1 models will be offered with the new BMW Operating System 9 in the UK from the second quarter of 2023. This new operating system opens the door to an extended range of apps, optimised touch control and more frequent updates. Additional BMW compact-class models will follow suit in other countries over the course of 2023.

International Media Launch BMW iX M60 - On location photos and videos available.

Munich. After two pandemic-related breaks and for the fourth time in a row, the BMW Group is using the Coachella Valley Music & Arts Festival as a platform to showcase e-mobility and its all-electric BMW iX and i4 models. More than ever, the festival stands for a unique blend of extravagance, pure joy and a strong awareness of the socio-ecological challenges of our time. Inspire and be inspired is the BMW motto for the two festival weekends between 15 and 24 April 2022. For Stefan Ponikva, Head of Brand Communication and Experience, Coachella is an ideal event to showcase the brand and the two all-electric BMW iX and i4 models:

"I'm really excited that Coachella is back. The need for emotional experiences is as important for brands as it is for people. Coachella embodies the perfect blend of inspiration, innovation and sustainable focus. This fits perfectly with the BMW brand values and goals and what turned out to be decisive for our renewed commitment. This year we are designing our communications with artist Doja Cat - she really inspired us with her ideas and creativity."

As one of the most influential artists of our time, Grammy award winning artist Doja Cat is the dazzling new addition to a remarkable roster of co-creators supporting BMW with fresh impulses - during the Coachella Festival and far beyond.

Inspiring instead of persuading.

Since launching with the #RoadtoCoachella campaign in 2017, the goal has been to find artists to partner and co-create with, engaging Coachella attendees in an authentic way while creating a natural relationship between the festival and the BMWi Series. After collaborating with Hans Zimmer, the alternative rock band Portugal, The Man and global superstar Khalid, BMW returns to the desert in 2022 with today's most influential artist, Doja Cat.

For Doja Cat, Coachella is all about creating something impactful. “The show that I’m preparing for Coachella defines everything that I’ve done from day one. I never like to do the same thing over and over again, I want to embrace that instead of run from it”, she says. “BMW is an iconic brand and I am honoured to be working with them. Be on the look out at Coachella for some Doja inspired rides.” Her success proves her right: Nominated for numerous music awards, she inspires more than 20 million Instagram followers with her expressive style and authentic personality. She convincingly embodies diversity, equality, creativity - and the BMW brand essence: Joy.

How creating things together benefits everyone

The 2022 BMW Coachella campaign features original content with exclusive behind-the-scenes looks at Doja Cat's Road to Coachella and her rehearsals. The custom BMW iX car wrap inspired by her Grammy-nominated album Planet Her is one of the highlights. For this unique work of art, Doja Cat teamed up with one of the world's most renowned photographers, David LaChapelle, and creative director Brett Alan Nelson. Creative collaboration with other designers is also the approach of the twenty other BMW ambassadors, including 13-time X Games gold medalist and Olympic skateboarding star Nyjah Huston, the German actor, LGBTI activist and best-selling author Riccardo Simonetti and the respected US fashion designer Tremaine Emory.

Supported by a fleet of all-electric BMW iX and i4 models, they will pass on the joyful atmosphere of Coachella 2022 to their diverse followers around the world - most likely, like the creative organisers of the festival, in an inspiring way to encourage a rethink of sustainability and mobility. Follow us: hashtag #roadtocoachella.

Munich. The most beautiful, exclusive and fastest vehicles of their respective eras are traditionally assembled at the Amelia Island Concours d’Elegance. This year, the renowned classic car show in the north-east of the US state of Florida provided the perfect setting for the world premiere of particularly fascinating sports cars from the BMW model range. The new edition of the BMW 8 Series and the new BMW M8 models were presented to the public there for the first time. Visitors to the Amelia Island Concours d’Elegance 2022 also witnessed the launch of BMW M GmbH’s activities to mark its 50th anniversary.

For the new BMW 8 Series, the tradition-steeped event on the grounds of the Ritz-Carlton Hotel and the neighbouring Golf Club of Amelia Island provided the perfect setting in which to showcase its precisely enhanced design and advanced features. The M sports package is now standard in all model variants of the BMW 8 Series Coupé, the BMW 8 Series Convertible and the BMW 8 Series Gran Coupé. At the centre of the redesigned vehicle front section is the illuminated “Iconic Glow” BMW kidney grille. The 8-cylinder models also feature aerodynamically optimised exterior mirrors in the style of the BMW M8 as standard.

In the interior of all models in the new BMW 8 Series, their equally dynamic and exclusive character is underscored with an extended range of standard equipment including multifunction seats, an M leather steering wheel and other M-specific design features. Optimised ease of use is ensured by the standard BMW Live Cockpit Professional with a Control Display that has now increased in size to 12.3 inches. “The luxury sports cars of the new BMW 8 Series occupy a prominent position in BMW’s model range. We are delighted to be able to debut these exceptional models at one of the most prestigious automotive events in America,” said Sebastian Mackensen, Head of BMW Group Region Americas and President & CEO BMW North America.

History and the future came together in the BMW M brand’s appearance at the Amelia Island Concours d’Elegance 2022. BMW M GmbH showed pioneering models from its past along with the versions of its high-performance sports cars for the luxury segment that will be available from spring 2022. The models BMW M8 Competition Coupé (combined fuel consumption: 11.4 – 11.0 l/100 km according to WLTP, combined CO2 emissions: 260 – 251 g/km), the BMW M8 Competition Cabriolet (combined fuel consumption: 11.6 – 11.2 l/100 km according to WLTP, combined CO2 emissions: 264 – 255 g/km according to WLTP,) and the BMW M8 Competition Gran Coupé (combined fuel consumption: 11.6 – 11.2 l/100 km according to WLTP, combined CO2 emissions: 264 - 256 g/km) are now even more impressive with new exterior paint finishes and M light-alloy wheels, the M Shadow Line lights available for the first time and an additional interior trim variant. The operating system of the new BMW M8 models now also includes a 12.3-inch Control Display with touch function.

And the top models of the BMW M GmbH range not only offer fascinatingly vigorous power delivery with their 460 kW/625 hp V8 engine featuring M TwinPower Turbo technology and high-revving characteristics, they also come with an exceptionally extensive range of standard equipment. This includes a flap-controlled M sports exhaust system, BMW laser light headlights, the BMW Head-Up Display with M-specific display elements and a full Merino/Alcantara leather interior.

With the debut of its latest high-performance models for the luxury segment, BMW M GmbH makes a particularly impressive start to its anniversary year. The BMW Group subsidiary, founded in 1972 as BMW Motorsport GmbH, also contributed to the programme of the Amelia Island Concours d’Elegance 2022 with a fascinating look back into its history. A special exhibition showcased 50 milestones from BMW M GmbH’s 50-year model and racing history. This also included an early precursor of the current BMW M8. The prototype of a high-performance sports car with a V12 engine developed by BMW M GmbH in the early 1990s based on the then BMW 8 Series Coupé remained a one-off – and this was only the second time it has been put on show in the USA.

The selection of vehicles that were particularly influential in the development of BMW M GmbH also included a freshly restored example of the BMW M1 dating from 1980, which was the company’s first independently developed model, the BMW V12 LMR that won the 24 Hours of Le Mans in 1999, and the all-electric BMW iX M60 that is about to be launched on the market (combined power consumption: 24.5 – 21.9 kWh/100 km according to WLTP; combined CO2 emissions: 0 g/km).

This unique exhibition of outstanding BMW M models from five decades also included numerous vehicles owned by members of the BMW Car Club of America and from BMW North America’s classic car collection. “The United States is the world’s largest market for BMW M vehicles and we are always amazed and delighted by the passion and dedication that many enthusiasts here invest in their cars, both old and new,” said Franciscus van Meel, CEO of BMW M GmbH. “We feel privileged to be able to celebrate our anniversary in this wonderful place, surrounded by special people and exceptional cars.”

Faster, more precise, more efficient: The first fully electric BMW xDrive system in the BMW iX and the BMW i4 M50.

Two engines, four driven wheels and a globally unique drive torque control system ensure optimal traction, driving stability and dynamics in every situation.

Munich. More than 35 years ago, all-wheel drive provided a new form of driving pleasure for the first time in a BMW, and the intelligent distribution of power between the front and rear axles has been known as BMW xDrive for almost two decades. The fascination of four driven wheels now reaches an additional, particularly sustainable dimension. The first fully electric BMW xDrive system can now be experienced on the road. It makes its debut in the BMW iX and the BMW i4 M50 (combined power consumption: 22.5 – 18.0 kWh/100 km according to WLTP; combined CO₂ emissions: 0 g/km).

Like all BMW iX vehicle types, the fully electric Gran Coupé from BMW M GmbH is powered by an engine on both the front and rear axles. This creates an axle-parallel all-wheel drive without a mechanical connection between the front and rear wheels. The interaction of the two engines is optimised by an innovative and globally unique drive torque control system. The electric BMW xDrive system thus ensures the ideal form of power transmission in every driving situation – combined with a typical BMW driving experience.

Intelligent networking of driving stability control, actuator contiguous wheel slip limitation and drive control.

The fully electric BMW xDrive system makes it possible to transform outstanding drive power, expressed for example in the BMW i4 M50 with a system output of up to 400 kW/544 hp and a maximum torque of 795 Nm, into superior driving dynamics. This requires precise distribution of the drive torque. This is ensured by linking the DSC (driving stability control) system with the all-wheel drive-specific version of the actuator contiguous wheel slip limitation and the Combined Charging Unit (CCU), whose highly integrated range of functions for the first time includes both charging and drive electronics.

The intelligent networking of all systems makes it possible to distribute the drive torque requested by the driver between the two engines in such a way that traction and driving stability, dynamics and efficiency are guaranteed to an optimum extent in the respective driving situation. DSC defines the general conditions under which the electric BMW xDrive system can operate. It permanently analyses the vehicle's wheel speeds, steering angle, driving speed, longitudinal and lateral acceleration and yaw rate. Based on these parameters, a speed corridor is determined in which the two drive units may be active to ensure a stable driving condition. The My Mode selected by the driver and whether the DTC (Dynamic Traction Control) is activated are also taken into account. This mode is a special DSC mode in which, in interaction with actuator contiguous wheel slip limitation and other control functions, an even sportier driving style is possible on normal surfaces without interventions, among other things through increased intervention thresholds. In addition, a maximum drive is achieved on loose ground such as snow, sand or gravel.

From the data supplied by DSC and the drive torque requested by the driver, the CCU calculates the ideal distribution between front and rear-wheel drive. The fully electric xDrive system can react noticeably faster and with significantly higher control quality to any change in driving situation than would be possible with a transfer box between the axles familiar from BMW models with combustion engines.

The drive control of the CCU, actuator contiguous wheel slip limitation and the driving stability control system interact flexibly and precisely. If required, the data supplied by DSC about the driving situation can already proactively include an all-wheel drive request. In many driving situations, a change in the distribution of drive torque between the front and rear engines alone can increase driving stability without requiring any further intervention. If one wheel threatens to lose grip with the road surface, actuator contiguous wheel slip limitation with its particularly fast and precise reactions comes into play first. Only in critical situations does DSC also assist with wheel-specific braking interventions.

Optimal traction, perfect directional stability, maximum efficiency.

During driving off and accelerating, the desired drive torque is distributed between both engines by the CCU to provide optimised traction. In addition to the road friction values and the driver's choice, the electric BMW xDrive and actuator contiguous wheel slip limitation also take into account environmental parameters such as wind, uphill or downhill gradients, the vehicle settings of the My Modes and the DTC, as well as the dynamic axle-load distribution, which provides more weight and better power transmission to the rear axle during acceleration. Due to the direct integration of actuator contiguous wheel slip limitation into the drive torque control system of the CCU, long signal paths to the driving stability control system are eliminated, meaning that interventions can be performed at a speed that is up to 10 times higher and in a particularly precise dosage. This ensures unwavering directional stability of the vehicle even during extremely dynamic acceleration manoeuvres.

When the accelerator pedal is pressed moderately, a continuously higher proportion of drive torque is provided by the rear electric drive unit as the speed increases. In phases of constant driving, the drive is finally provided solely by the engine acting on the rear wheels. This creates the traditional BMW driving experience. At the same time, the efficiency of the drive system and, with it, the range of the vehicle is optimised.

Full all-wheel drive functionality is available at all times. For example, even when driving in My Mode Efficient, any spontaneous load demand is immediately met with a significant increase in drive torque on the front axle. When cornering dynamically, on the other hand, the proportion of rear-wheel drive is increased. The front wheels can therefore absorb higher cornering forces due to the reduced drive torque. In this way, the vehicle's driving stability and agility are increased in equal measure. Depending on the driving situation, the fully variable electric BMW xDrive system can implement any form of power transmission: traction-optimised all-wheel drive with variable torque distribution as well as pure front or rear-wheel drive.

Precisely controlled energy recovery optimises driving stability and efficiency.

In coasting and braking phases, both engines can feed energy back into the high-voltage battery by means of a generator function. This makes a significantly higher recuperation performance possible than just one motor. The fully electric BMW xDrive system also makes it possible to control these energy recovery processes in such a way as to ensure maximum driving stability and efficiency at all times. The system is designed so that the more powerful engine on the rear axle also takes on the main role in recovering energy. In curves and in adverse road conditions, on the other hand, a higher proportion of energy recovery performance is provided by the front engine.

Just like the drive torque, the energy recovery torque can also be divided quickly and precisely between the two engines. In addition, the intelligently networked drive torque control system ensures that a stable driving condition is also guaranteed during deceleration processes. The slip control set by DSC helps to prevent unstable driving conditions caused by excessive braking recovery. The transition from deceleration through recovery to the intervention of the hydraulic braking system is not perceptible to the driver. The integrated braking system also contributes to this, providing a constant pedal feel at all times.

The figures for fuel consumption, CO₂ emissions, power consumption and range are measured using the methods required according to Regulation (EC) 2007/715 as amended. These figures refer to vehicles on the automotive market in Germany. For span widths, the specifications take into account the effects of any optional equipment.

All values were calculated based on the new WLTP test cycle. WLTP values are taken as the basis for determining vehicle-related taxes or other duties based (at least inter alia) on CO₂ emissions as well as eligibility for any applicable vehicle-specific subsidies. Further information on the WLTP and NEDC measurement procedures can also be found at www.bmw.de/wltp.

Woodcliff Lake, NJ. BMW will debut a new 60-second advertisement during the Super Bowl on Sunday, February 13, 2022, to showcase its All-New, fully electric BMW iX Sports Activity Vehicle, which arrives in the US next month. The star-studded spot features legendary actor Arnold Schwarzenegger and Academy Award nominee Salma Hayek Pinault, and was directed by two-time Academy Award nominated director Bryan Buckley. It will air during the third commercial break of the first quarter of the game.

Schwarzenegger stars as Zeus, the Greek god of lightning, and Hayek Pinault plays his wife, the goddess Hera, as they retire from Mt. Olympus to a quiet life in Palm Springs, California.  However, the monotony of retirement quickly weighs on Zeus, who becomes frustrated by his struggles with earthly electronics and his nagging mortal neighbors’ constant requests to charge their electric golf carts and hedge trimmers. Meanwhile, Hera, the hero of the story, has fully acclimated and is thriving in retirement. In an effort to bring some excitement back into Zeus’s life, she gifts him with an all-electric BMW iX, which quickly helps reignite her husband’s electric mojo. The spot closes with the happy couple rocking down the road in their new BMW iX to Eddy Grant’s “Electric Avenue” while Zeus uses his electric power to change the traffic lights to green.

“All-electric mobility is at the very heart of the BMW brand,” said Jens Thiemer, senior vice president, customer and brand, BMW AG. “There is no better place to make this statement than in front of one of the largest television audiences in the world, where viewers tune in as much for the commercials as they do for the game. With Arnold and Salma, we are able show the world the new BMW iX in a memorable and impactful way.”

“The humor lies in this legendary god of lightning, who is supposed to be indestructible, battling with everyday electronics,” said Schwarzenegger. “It is only when his brilliant wife presents him with the gift of an all-electric BMW iX that Zeus is struck with the mighty power of electricity and is completely rejuvenated.”

The spot was conceived by BMW’s lead U.S. creative agency, Goodby Silverstein & Partners, and directed by two-time Academy Award nominated director Bryan Buckley, highly acclaimed for his work on more than 65 Super Bowl commercials. The ad also marks Hayek Pinault’s debut in a Super Bowl spot and the first time she and Schwarzenegger have costarred in a national ad.

“This is my first Super Bowl commercial—and the first time I’ve played a Greek goddess,” said Hayek Pinault. “Seventy-five percent of the decisions made in a marriage about where to spend the money are made by women, and in this commercial, it is the woman who decides on the right car to get her husband back on track. Of course, the commercial is entertaining, but there is also a real human truth to it.”

“I’ve done 60-some-odd Super Bowl spots. I’ve never had more star power than these two,” said director Bryan Buckley. “When I first saw  Schwarzenegger’s name on the script, I was in. And Salma—there is no one greater as an actress. It’s a movie in 60 seconds, and it’s on the biggest platform.”

“Transcending sports, this iconic annual event isn’t just a championship game. It’s a cultural phenomenon where viewers pay even more attention when the action on the field stops,” said Rich Silverstein, co-founder and co-chairman of Goodby Silverstein & Partners. “There’s only one person on the planet who could say he’s Zeus, and that’s Arnold. And there’s only one brand worthy of being called the Ultimate Electric Driving Machine, and that’s BMW. We needed to showcase this in a big way, and that is what we’re doing on February 13.”

Designed to provide more than just mortal mobility, the BMW iX brings together the fifth generation of BMW eDrive technology with the company’s latest developments in the fields of design, connectivity, digital services and sustainability. With 516 hp and a 0–60 time of only 4.6 seconds, the BMW iX offers an exhilarating driving experience with an EPA estimate of up to 324 miles of all-electric range and the latest in-vehicle technology, including 5G connectivity, a sweeping curved display that unites the 12.3-inch information display with a 14.9-inch central control display, and the debut of BMW iDrive 8, the company’s latest user-interface system. The BMW iX starts at $83,200 plus $995 destination and handling.

“This is a pinnacle event in the U.S. and the perfect stage on which to introduce the BMW iX to our customers,” said Uwe Dreher, vice president, marketing, BMW of North America. “We have already seen a significant number of preorders for both the BMW iX and BMW i4, and a huge amount of excitement for these two new electric vehicles.”

Alongside the BMW iX, BMW will also launch the fully electric BMW i4 four-door Gran Coupe in the U.S. next month as the company takes a major step toward its stated goal of reaching global sales of 50% electric vehicles by 2030.

BMW’s last Super Bowl had appeared in 2015 and featured Katie Couric and Bryant Gumbel as they marveled over BMW’s first fully electric production vehicle, the BMW i3. The BMW i3 was a pioneer of electromobility and later became one of the best-selling premium electric vehicles in the world.

The official BMW Super Bowl Spot 2022 can be found at:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nUC1QA5gRcU.

If you have any questions, please contact:

Corporate Communications

Phil DiIanni
Telephone: +1-201-785-4555
E-Mail: phil.dilanni@bmwna.com

Matt Spadaro
Telephone: +1-201-466-9896
E-Mail: matthew.spadaro@bmwna.com

Munich. Parallel to the launch of the new BMW 8 Series, the new BMW M8 model family, the BMW iX M60 (power consumption combined:  24.5 – 21.9 kWh/100 km according to WLTP; CO₂ emissions: 0 g/km) and the special edition BMW X2 Goldplay, BMW is increasing the appeal of numerous other models with additional drive variants and equipment features as of spring 2022. From March 2022, new model variants will expand the range for the BMW 2 Series Coupé, the BMW 2 Series Active Tourer and the BMW 4 Series Gran Coupé. The Parking Assistant Professional, presented for the first time, is optionally available for all model variants of the BMW iX and allows the vehicle to be manoeuvred via smartphone. The My BMW app also features additional functions that make charging the high-voltage battery in the purely electric and plug-in hybrid BMW models even more convenient.

New driver assistance systems, which are optionally available in the BMW 2 Series Active Tourer as well as the BMW X3 and BMW X4 models, provide added comfort. In addition, the range of body finishes, upholstery variants and light-alloy wheels for the BMW 4 Series Gran Coupé, the BMW i4, the BMW iX and the BMW M5 (fuel consumption combined: 11.3 – 11.1 l/100 km; combined CO₂ emissions: 259 – 253 g/km according to WLTP) receives further variants. To mark the 50th anniversary of BMW M GmbH, particularly striking "BMW Motorsport" emblems are optionally available for BMW M automobiles in conjunction with an M sports package.

Additional engine variant for the new BMW 2 Series Coupé.

Sheer driving pleasure in the BMW 2 Series Coupé can be experienced in a further variant from March 2022. The fourth engine option for the dynamic two-door model is a 2.0 litre 4-cylinder petrol engine with an output of 180 kW/245 hp and a maximum torque of 400 Nm. The new drive unit will feature in the BMW 230i Coupé (fuel consumption combined: 7.2 – 6.5 l/100 km; CO₂ emissions: 163 – 149 g/km according to WLTP) with classic rear-wheel drive. Power delivery and emissions behaviour have been optimised by an exhaust manifold integrated into the cylinder head and an advanced turbocharging system for the BMW TwinPower Turbo technology.

The new engine is combined with an 8-speed Steptronic sports transmission as standard. The range of equipment and functions includes gearshift paddles on the steering wheel and Launch Control, which enables the new BMW 230i Coupé to accelerate from a standstill to 100 km/h in 5.9 seconds. Among other things, an M sports differential in the final drive is available as an option for the new model variant.

New BMW 2 Series Active Tourer now also with BMW xDrive, additional body finishes and optimised Driving Assistant Plus.

Versatile functionality, hallmark driving pleasure and distinctive dynamic design characterise the second generation of the BMW 2 Series Active Tourer, which will also be available with intelligent all-wheel drive from March 2022. The new BMW 223i xDrive Active Tourer (fuel consumption combined: 7.1 – 6.5 l/100 km; CO₂ emissions: 160 –  148 g/km according to WLTP) is the fifth model variant of the modern all-rounder in the premium compact segment. Its BMW xDrive system transfers the power of a 4-cylinder petrol engine with 48-volt mild hybrid technology to all four wheels as required. The drive of the new BMW 223i xDrive Active Tourer delivers 160 kW/218 hp, generated jointly by its combustion engine with up to 150 kW/204 hp and the electric drive with up to 14 kW/19 hp. The electric auxiliary drive contributes to a particularly spontaneous accelerating response. The new model variant sprints from a standstill to 100 km/h in 6.9 seconds.

The new Piedmont Red metallic body finish will also be available from March 2022 for the new BMW 2 Series Active Tourer. In addition, the range of functions of the optionally available Driving Assistant Plus has been expanded to include Steering and Lane Guidance Assist. At speeds of up to 180 km/h, the system uses corrective steering interventions to help the driver keep the new BMW 2 Series Active Tourer in the centre of the lane. The steering assistance also ensures that a suitable distance to lane markings and vehicles on the adjacent lane is maintained when driving through narrow spaces, for example at motorway construction sites. In addition, Driving Assistant Plus includes Active Cruise Control with Stop & Go function, including automatic Speed Limit Assist. This is based on the Speed Limit Info system with anticipatory display of speed limits and overtaking bans.

Active Cruise Control with Stop & Go function now also available for the BMW X3 and BMW X4.

The range of optionally available driver assistance systems will also be extended for the BMW X3 and BMW X4 models as of spring 2022. Active Cruise Control with Stop & Go function will be available for the Sports Activity Vehicle and the Sports Activity Coupé in the premium mid-size class from April 2022.

Unlike the already standard cruise control with braking function, it not only keeps the desired speed between 30 and 160 km/h constant, but also the distance to vehicles ahead, which can be selected by the driver in four stages. Distance control is carried out by means of a radar sensor integrated into the front bumper and, if necessary, makes the vehicle decelerate to a standstill. The range of functions also includes automatic restarting after short intermediate stops of up to three seconds. In addition, the system offers the driver the option of adopting speed limits registered by the Systems Speed Limit Info traffic sign recognition system as the new desired speed at the touch of a button.

New BMW 4 Series Gran Coupé with further all-wheel-drive variant.

The model range for the new BMW 4 Series Gran Coupé will include a further variant as of spring 2022. The BMW 430i xDrive Gran Coupé (fuel consumption combined: 7.9 – 7.1 l/100 km; CO₂ emissions: 180 – 162 g/km according to WLTP) is the third model in the range in which intelligent all-wheel drive delivers particularly superior power transmission. The BMW xDrive system distributes the power generated by a 2.0-litre 4-cylinder engine with an output of 180 kW/245 hp and a maximum torque of 400 Nm to all four wheels as required.

The standard equipment of the new BMW 430i xDrive Gran Coupé also includes an 8-speed Steptronic transmission. This combination of engine, transmission and all-wheel drive enables acceleration from zero to 100 km/h in 6.1 seconds.

New equipment options for the BMW 4 Series Gran Coupé and the BMW i4.

In addition to the new drive variant, the BMW 4 Series Gran Coupé will also offer numerous additional options for customising the exterior and interior from March 2022. These are also available for the all-electric BMW i4 and include new body finishes and leather trims as well as an M Carbon exterior package.

The BMW Individual special paint finishes Brilliant White metallic and Frozen Dark Grey metallic are new to the range of body colours. In addition, the BMW Individual body finishes Frozen Pure Grey metallic and Frozen Portimao Blue metallic are also available for the respective BMW M automobiles and in conjunction with the M Sport model. The BMW i4 M50 (power consumption combined: 22.5 – 18.0 kWh/100 km according to WLTP; CO₂ emissions: 0 g/km) for which the M Carbon exterior package was exclusively reserved so far, will also be available for all other model variants of the BMW i4 and the BMW 4 Series Gran Coupé from March 2022, also in conjunction with the M Sport model. It includes surrounds for the air curtains in the front apron, exterior mirror caps, a rear spoiler and diffuser insert trims made of the equally light and striking carbon-fibre-reinforced plastic.

In the interior of the BMW i4 and the BMW 4 Series Gran Coupé, customers can select particularly high-quality features with the extended BMW Individual Merino leather upholstery in the colour variants Black, Ivory White, Tartufo, Fjord Blue/Black and Fiona Red/Black. For an even more exclusive ambience, the BMW Individual full leather Merino interior, available in the same colours, also includes leather upholstery on the instrument panel. In addition, individual interior design preferences can also be fulfilled from March 2022 onwards thanks to special upholstery from the BMW Individual programme.

Parking Assistant Professional premieres in the BMW iX.

The BMW iX underpins its status as a technology flagship with the premiere of a new and unique system for automated parking. Available from March 2022 for all model variants, Parking Assistant Professional enables particularly convenient parking in automated driving mode.

Using GPS and trajectory data defined by steering movements, the system can store various manoeuvres with a route length of up to 200 metres each. When arriving again at the respective starting point, Parking Assistant Professional can then take over the complete driving task including accelerating, braking, steering and changing between forward and reverse gear. The driver can concentrate on monitoring the surroundings during the automated manoeuvre.

The BMW Individual paint finish Oxid Grey metallic and 22-inch M aerodynamic wheels in Bicolour Titanium Bronze with 3D gloss finish are new to the equipment range for all model variants of the BMW iX.

My BMW App with new functions for convenient charging.

The My BMW App is the universal interface for communication between the driver, the vehicle, the BMW brand and the BMW dealer. In spring 2022, its range of functions will be expanded to include digital services from BMW Charging for convenient electric mobility. This makes it even easier for drivers of a BMW model with purely electric or plug-in hybrid drive to find and select public charging stations. The My BMW app shows charging stations and their availability on a map section.

In addition, the My BMW app also makes it easier to use public charging points. Drivers of a BMW iX or a BMW i4 can now start charging the high-voltage battery by scanning a QR code or with just one operating step in the My BMW app.

Individual dynamics: New body finishes for the BMW M5, classic emblems to mark the anniversary of BMW M GmbH.

New and particularly expressive paint finishes will be available for the BMW M5 high-performance sedan as of spring 2022. The exterior of the high-performance model can now also be given an individual look with the body finishes Sophisto Grey Brilliant Effect metallic, San Remo Green metallic and Skyscraper Grey metallic as well as with the BMW Individual paint finish Frozen Deep Grey metallic.

A historic logo also makes a comeback in the BMW M GmbH anniversary year. The classic "BMW Motorsport" emblems for the engine compartment lid, tailgate and wheel hub covers are available on request for all of the brand's performance and high-performance sports cars, as well as for BMW models delivered as an M Sport model or with an M sports package. Their design is based on the logo in the colours blue, purple and red, which was first used in 1973 on the racing cars of BMW Motorsport GmbH, which had been established the year before. On the occasion of its 50th anniversary, BMW M GmbH is offering its customers the opportunity to express their passion for racing and their sense of tradition with these historic emblems.

* all new models available from start of production in March 2022

All the model variants, equipment levels, technical specifications, consumption and emission values described correspond to what is available on the automotive market in Germany.

Munich. For the third time in a row, BMW M GmbH ended the financial year as the global market leader in the performance and high-performance car segment. Indeed, the company posted record sales once again in 2021. A total of 163,542 BMW M cars were delivered to customers worldwide last year, a 13 percent increase on 2020.

This growth was spread equally between the High-Performance sports cars and Performance cars made by BMW M GmbH, with both product categories raising their sales figures to a new level. “This success is the perfect start to our anniversary year,” says Franciscus van Meel, CEO of BMW M GmbH. “M is in a stronger position than ever as it celebrates its 50th birthday.”

New BMW M3 and new BMW M4 enjoy immediate success.

The biggest drivers of growth among the High-Performance sports cars were the new BMW M3 and BMW M4 models introduced in spring 2021. Fuelled by a vehicle concept focused squarely on emotionally charged dynamism and unprecedented diversity in the model range, the new BMW M3 Sedan (fuel consumption combined: 10.2 – 10.0 l/100 km [27.7 – 28.3 mpg imp]; CO₂ emissions combined: 231 – 227 g/km as per WLTP), new BMW M4 Coupé (fuel consumption combined: 10.1 – 9.9 l/100 km [28.0 – 28.5 mpg imp]; CO₂ emissions combined: 230 – 226 g/km as per WLTP) and new BMW M4 Convertible (fuel consumption combined: 10.2 l/100 km [27.7 mpg imp]; CO₂ emissions combined: 233 – 231 g/km as per WLTP) got off to an extremely successful start. The latest model generation is the first to offer customers two output levels topping out at 375 kW/510 hp, the M xDrive all-wheel-drive system and a choice of either a six-speed manual gearbox or the eight-speed M Steptronic transmission.

“The response to the new generation of the BMW M3 and BMW M4 has been simply overwhelming,” reports Timo Resch, Vice President Customer, Brand and Sales at BMW M GmbH. “We can therefore expect demand for these iconic sports cars to continue on an upward curve in 2022.”

Also making a powerful contribution to the latest rise in High-Performance model sales at BMW M GmbH were the BMW X5 M Competition (fuel consumption combined: 13.6 – 13.3 l/100 km [20.8 – 21,2 mpg imp]; CO₂ emissions combined: 308 – 303 g/km as per WLTP) and BMW X6 M Competition (fuel consumption combined: 13.4 – 13.1 l/100 km [21.1 – 21.6 mpg imp]; CO₂ emissions combined: 305 – 299 g/km as per WLTP). Following the successful market launch of the latest model generation the previous year, the charismatic High-Performance sports cars in the Sports Activity Vehicle and Sports Activity Coupé segment – both powered by a 460 kW/625 hp V8 engine – increased their sales figures once again in 2021.

Alluring and in demand: the BMW M models in the BMW 4 Series range.

The dynamic excellence, agility and precision for which M is renowned also enabled the brand’s Performance models to delight and excite a wide range of customers over the past year. Credit for the latest boost to sales goes above all to the M models based on the new BMW 4 Series. Particularly popular were the variants of the new BMW 4 Series Coupé, whose line-up consists of the BMW M440i Coupé (fuel consumption combined: 8.1 – 7.4 l/100 km [34.8 – 38.2 mpg imp]; CO₂ emissions combined: 184 – 167 g/km as per WLTP) and BMW M440i xDrive Coupé (fuel consumption combined: 8.2 – 7.5 l/100 km [34.5 – 37.7 mpg imp]; CO₂ emissions combined: 186 – 170 g/km as per WLTP) powered by a 275 kW/374 hp six-cylinder in-line petrol engine, and the BMW M440d xDrive Coupé (fuel consumption combined: 6.3 – 5.7 l/100 km [44.8 – 49.6 mpg imp]; CO₂ emissions combined: 165 – 150 g/km as per WLTP), whose six-cylinder in-line diesel unit produces 250 kW/340 hp.

The latest BMW X models within the ranks of M’s Performance cars also proved extremely desirable. Indeed, the BMW X3 M40i powered by a six-cylinder in-line engine with 265 kW/360 hp (fuel consumption combined: 9.5 – 8.8 l/100 km [29.7 – 32.1 mpg imp]; CO₂ emissions combined: 216 – 199 g/km as per WLTP) and the BMW X7 M50i (fuel consumption combined: 12.8 – 12.3 l/100 km [22.1 – 23.0 mpg imp]; CO₂ emissions combined: 292 – 280 g/km as per WLTP) with its 390 kW/530 hp V8 unit both posted an increase in new registrations.

Looking ahead to an anniversary year brimming with highlights.

BMW M GmbH will continue its product offensive in this anniversary year with the addition of new High-Performance and Performance models. Highlights include the new BMW M240i xDrive Coupé (fuel consumption combined: 8.8 – 8.1 l/100 km [32.1 – 34.9 mpg imp]; CO₂ emissions combined: 200 – 185 g/km as per WLTP) and the arrival later in the year of the first BMW M3 Touring and an exclusive special-edition model based on the new BMW M4 Coupé.

In addition, the BMW Group subsidiary – which was founded as BMW Motorsport GmbH in May 1972 and enjoys the status of an independent manufacturer – will also drive the transformation to electric mobility. Following in the tyre tracks of the BMW i4 M50 (electric power consumption combined: 22.5 – 18.0 kWh/100 km as per WLTP; CO₂ emissions combined: 0 g/km) in the first half of 2022 will be the likewise fully electric BMW iX M60 (projected electric power consumption combined: 24.7 – 21.7 kWh/100 km as per WLTP; CO₂ emissions combined: 0 g/km).

The most powerful BMW M model ever made points the way to the future of the brand.

The anniversary year will be crowned by the start of production of the BMW XM. The most powerful BMW M car ever to go into series production is also the brand’s first High-Performance model to employ a plug-in hybrid drive system. Its newly developed M Hybrid technology brings together a V8 engine and a high-performance electric motor to develop maximum output of 550 kW/750 hp and peak torque of 1,000 Nm (737 lb-ft). The design of the BMW XM majors on presence and extrovert appeal and in so doing sends out a clear statement in the luxury segment.

“Our first standalone model since the legendary BMW M1 represents a complete re-imagining of the high-performance car segment,” says van Meel. “The BMW XM blends expressive design and progressive interior luxury with an incomparable driving experience that serves up both sublime performance and the ability to glide along in near silence in all-electric mode. In so doing, it provides an inimitable expression of poise and assurance, and at the same time points the way to the future of our brand.”

Green light for the first BMW M automobile designed for purely electric mobility from the outset. The BMW Group presents the third, even more powerful model variant of its technology flagship: the BMW iX M60 (combined power consumption: 24.5 - 21.9 kWh/100 km according to WLTP; combined CO₂ emissions: 0 g/km). With an output of 455 kW/619 hp*, a maximum torque of 1.015 Nm in Sport Mode respectively 1.100 Nm with activated Launch Control and an M specific suspension set-up, it adds an outstanding performance experience to the world of locally emission-free mobility.

The BMW iX M60 combines innovative luxury with the design of a modern sports activity vehicle and dynamic driving characteristics. In this way it embodies the best of the three worlds of BMW i, the BMW X models and BMW M GmbH. With its technological highlights, which also include the areas of automated driving, operation and connectivity, the new BMW iX M60 represents a new understanding of advanced luxury, high performance and premium character.

The start signal for electric mobility in hallmark BMW M brand style.
The BMW iX M60 accelerates from a standstill to 100 km/h in only 3.8 seconds. The vehement power delivery of its M specific electric drive continues steadily into high load ranges, so that the increase in speed also remains almost constant up to the electronically limited maximum speed of 250 km/h. The range of the BMW iX M60 determined in the WLTP test cycle is up to 561 kilometres.

The debut of the BMW iX M60 marks a milestone in the history of BMW M GmbH, which began 50 years ago. Together with the BMW i4 M50 (combined power consumption: 22.5 – 18.0 kWh/100 km according to WLTP; combined CO₂ emissions: 0 g/km), it embodies the departure of the BMW M brand into the segment of electrified performance cars. The extreme power and precise control of the electric all-wheel drive, together with the highly responsive actuator-based wheel slip limitation and a suspension technology that includes, among other things, an M specifically tuned dual-axle air suspension with automatic level control, ensure hallmark BMW M driving experience, agility and precision.

The BMW iX M60 is manufactured together with the other model variants of the all-electric Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV) at the BMW Group Plant Dingolfing. The venue for its world premiere was the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas (USA) in January 2022. The global market launch will begin in June 2022.

Balanced vehicle concept, extremely sporty orientation.
The vehicle concept of the BMW iX provides an ideal basis for an all-electric SAV with high-performance characteristics. Both the body structure and the design principle as well as suspension set-up are geared towards combining superior ride comfort with sporty handling characteristics. The aluminium spaceframe concept and the carbon cage with carbon fibre reinforced plastic (CFRP) in the roof, side and rear sections are an intelligent mix of materials that combines increased rigidity with optimised weight. The use of CFRP to reduce weight has a long tradition at BMW M GmbH. The particularly lightweight high-tech material already achieved great results in combining engine performance and weight in the BMW M3 CSL, which was introduced in 2003. BMW M GmbH thus pioneered the use of CFRP in large-scale automotive production. In numerous current BMW M GmbH high-performance sports cars, a standard carbon fibre roof and other components made of CFRP are part of the intelligent lightweight construction principle.

The BMW iX M60’s performance, efficiency and range also benefit from its optimised aerodynamic properties, which give it a drag coefficient (C_d value) of 0.26 in Sport Mode. The high-voltage battery is located deep down in the underbody, lowering the vehicle's centre of gravity which ensures agile handling as well as balanced axle load distribution. That is why the performance characteristics of the BMW iX M60 are not only characterised by fascinatingly spontaneous acceleration, but also by outstanding cornering dynamics and handling that can be precisely controlled at all times, even in highly dynamic situations. The perfectly balanced driving characteristics give the BMW iX M60 a confident and light-footed feel at all speeds. It can also be driven at the physical limits giving the driver clear feedback in typical BMW M style.

First BMW M automobile based on the new future modular system.
The BMW iX M60 combines its typical M performance characteristics with the exceptionally advanced technology of the BMW Group's new future modular system in the areas of automated driving, operation, connectivity and digital services. This creates an experience of premium mobility that is unique in the competitive environment. The completely redeveloped interior architecture also contributes to this, creating an exceptionally generous feeling of space.

Like the other model variants, the BMW iX M60 features the most extensive range of standard equipment ever offered by BMW in the field of driver assistance systems as well as numerous innovations. A new generation of sensors, a new software stack and a powerful computing platform also provide considerable potential for consistently advancing automated driving and parking functions.

With BMW iDrive, the BMW iX M60 creates an impressive and hallmark M driving experience. The focus is on the familiar display and Operating System 8 with a clear focus on the touch function of the BMW Curved Display and voice communication with the extensively enhanced BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant. A number of new features underline the M character of the BMW iX M60. M badges in the instrument display and the first-ever BMW IconicSounds Electric with typical M characteristics make the electric driving experience even more thrilling. With the new My Modes "Relax" and "Expressive", users now have five My Modes to choose from, making every ride individual. The BMW ConnectedDrive Upgrades offer the possibility to install new and improved vehicle functions over-the-air. Fast and precise route planning as well as perfect traffic guidance is ensured by navigation using the cloud-based and improved BMW Maps system and Augmented Reality Video. The BMW iX is also a pioneer in data transmission using the 5G mobile phone standard and in integrating the personal mobile phone account into the vehicle with the help of the Personal eSIM.

Clear design language, innovative feeling of space, exceptionally comprehensive standard equipment.
The powerful proportions of a modern SAV, reduced surface design and precise details characterise the clear exterior look and give the BMW iX M60 its distinctive presence. The brake callipers of the sports brake system painted in blue and featuring an M logo, the BMW Individual Titanium Bronze Exterior Line and M logos in the new High Gloss Black/Titanium Bronze finish on the front side panels and the rear of the vehicle provide clear indications of the high performance character of the BMW iX M60. 22-inch M aerodynamic wheels featuring exclusive Titanium Bronze design are optional.

The spacious, high-quality and innovatively designed interior helps the driver concentrate on driving actively while also providing travel comfort and the pleasure of progressive luxury. Multifunction seats with integrated headrests, the large BMW Curved Display, the hexagonal steering wheel and the anthracite-coloured roof liner enhance driving pleasure. The elimination of the centre tunnel creates additional legroom as well as space for storage and a centre console designed in the style of a high-quality piece of furniture. The optional Suite interior includes natural leather seats, instrument panel, centre console and door trim surfaces, as well as Gold Bronze surfaces and controls.

The exclusive character of the BMW iX M60 is further emphasised by its exceptionally comprehensive level of standard equipment. Among other things it includes BMW Live Cockpit Professional and BMW Natural Interaction, which allows functions to be operated using speech and gestures, the Bowers & Wilkins Diamond Surround Sound System, BMW Laser Light, Comfort Access, Active Seat Ventilation for driver and front passenger and the Heat Comfort Package.

Holistic sustainability concept: Controlled raw material extraction, production using 100 percent green electricity, high proportion of natural and recycled materials.
Responsibly using resources throughout the entire value chain and the maximum reduction of the CO₂ footprint all across the entire product life cycle express how BMW i understands and defines forward-looking premium mobility. This holistic approach is consistently implemented in vehicle development, throughout the supply chain and in the production of the BMW iX M60. The BMW i brand stands for both ecological and social sustainability.

The supply of cobalt and lithium required for the high-voltage batteries is procured by the BMW Group from controlled sources in Australia and Morocco and delivered to the battery cell manufacturers. The design principle of the electric motors makes it possible to dispense with the use of rare earth metals in the rotors of the drives. In addition, the company purchases aluminium, which is produced using electricity from solar energy plants.

100 per cent green electricity is used for manufacturing the vehicles as well as for manufacturing battery cells. A high proportion of secondary aluminium and recycled plastic also contributes to the resource-efficient production of the BMW iX M60. The interior features FSC-certified wood, leather tanned with olive tree leaf extract and other natural materials. Among other things, recycled fishing nets serve as raw material for floor coverings and floor mats.

* Electric drive with up to 397 kW during temporary performance increase ]]> Wed, 05 Jan 2022 00:01:00 +0100 https://content.presspage.com/uploads/3228/2180e72d-f52d-47de-82dd-22cda61a22b4/500_P90447387_highRes_the-new-bmw-ix-m60-0.jpg?10000 https://content.presspage.com/uploads/3228/2180e72d-f52d-47de-82dd-22cda61a22b4/P90447387_highRes_the-new-bmw-ix-m60-0.jpg?10000 https://newsroom.bmwgroup.com/global/merry-ix-mas---additional-media-about-the-first-ever-bmw-ix/ https://newsroom.bmwgroup.com/global/merry-ix-mas---additional-media-about-the-first-ever-bmw-ix/767169

Please find attached on location media of the first ever BMW iX.

Munich. They did it again. After Academy Award winner Christoph Waltz played a central role in the world design premiere of the BMW iX at #NEXTGen 2020, he now stars in the new BMW Christmas film. In the film he encounters two old acquaintances: Oliver Zipse, Chairman of the Board of Management of BMW AG, and the BMW iX. They are supported by Alex Hirschi, known as Supercar Blondie, star designer Alexa Chung and Kai Langer, Head of Design BMW i who also appear in the clip.

Christoph Waltz's partnership with the BMW Group was initiated by Oliver Zipse. The company cooperates with avant-garde pioneers from ecology, social sciences, fashion, sports, music, film and other cultural disciplines. The goal is to create a deeper understanding of the needs, desires and trends of the future. Zipse invited the actor to enter into critical dialogue with designers, technology developers and strategy experts from the BMW Group. His openness, pragmatism and his slight impatience have given the BMW Group important impetus. Now this cooperation continues.

The result is a clip of cinematic quality, a cat-and-mouse game embedded in a wonderful Christmas film setting. It’s exciting and thrilling and there’s a fine sense of irony and comedy. The BMW Christmas film begins in Munich. It’s late afternoon at BMW headquarters, a classic BMW 3.0 CS approaches. The driver gets out and we see who it is: Christoph Waltz.

He is on his way to a meeting with Oliver Zipse and to the BMW iX, the BMW Group's new technology flagship that represents the future of the company: Fully electric, sustainable, featuring pioneering design and luxurious interior comfort. These things are important to Christoph Waltz. The actor is intensively involved with the ecological aspects of sustainable drive technology. He values premium quality, technological precision and attention to detail. He doesn't make much of Christmas.

On the run from Christmas

There is a mix-up at the reception. After Waltz has registered his meeting with Oliver Zipse, he is told he is invited to the BMW Christmas party. A staff member in a Christmas hat is to take him there. Waltz freezes. It is the prelude to an amusing escape in which Christoph Waltz is only concerned with one thing: To avoid everything that has to do with Christmas. Which doesn’t turn out to be so easy.

Christoph Waltz hopes for support from two celebrity guests

Waltz is making his way through BMW Welt, when he hears voices. Two more celebrity guests appear in the Christmas film: Kai Langer, Head of Design BMW i, and fashion designer Alexa Chung. The joy of seeing them quickly when he finds out that these two are also on their way to the BMW Christmas party.

While searching for a way out, the actor meets another familiar face. Alex Hirschi aka Supercar Blondie stands next to a concealed BMW model. She is just about to unveil the vehicle when Waltz bursts onto the set. Supercar Blondie complains loudly, but by then Waltz has already disappeared from the scene.

Christoph Waltz runs off, he rushes into another room thinking he is finally safe. He spins around - and finds himself standing in the middle of the BMW Christmas party. Oliver Zipse, Chairman of the Board of Management of BMW AG, approaches him, they clink glasses. The actor relaxes.

Happy ending with an Aventurine Red BMW iX

The BMW Christmas film wouldn't be a real Christmas film without a happy ending. How the story ends is revealed at the end of the clip. All we’ll give away is: It's also about an Aventurine Red BMW iX that leaves nothing to be desired. Especially at Christmas.

Watch the entire BMW Christmas film here.

BMW iX achieves highest possible five-star rating in Euro NCAP safety assessment.

+++New technology flagship from the BMW Group impresses with outstanding occupant protection for adults and children. +++ New interactive airbag between driver and front passenger seats reduces the risk of injury in the event of a side collision. +++ Advanced driver assistance systems help to prevent collisions with pedestrians and cyclists+++

Munich. With its purely electric drive and comprehensive range of digital features, the BMW iX represents a new era in individual mobility. In addition, it operates at the highest level of safety. This is according to the experts of the European New Car Assessment Programme (Euro NCAP) – the consumer protection institute specialising in automotive safety – who awarded the BMW iX the highest possible rating of five stars in the Euro NCAP safety assessment. During the course of the test programme, which was further intensified in 2020, the BMW Group’s new technology flagship impressed with both its outstanding occupant protection and its advanced driver assistance systems, which are particularly effective in helping to prevent accidents.

The BMW iX achieved five-star ratings in all test categories of the Euro NCAP crash test. In the assessment of adult occupant protection, the testers highlighted among other features the effectiveness of the new interactive airbag between the driver and front passenger seats, which provides additional protection against injury in the event of a side collision. Child safety in the rear of the BMW iX was also given the highest possible score for both frontal and side collisions.

Meanwhile, the integrated safety concept of the BMW iX ensures the highest level of passenger protection. In addition to precisely coordinated restraint systems, this includes highly resilient support structures and precisely designed deformation zones that absorb the impact of a collision and keep it away from the passenger compartment. The body structure of the BMW iX combines an aluminium spaceframe concept with a carbon cage for the passenger compartment. Particularly torsion-resistant components made of carbon fibre reinforced polymer (CFRP) are used in the roof, side and rear sections of the BMW iX.

“The BMW iX sets new standards in sustainability, and its top rating of five stars in the Euro NCAP underlines the vehicle’s comprehensive sustainability concept,” says Dominik Schuster, Head of Vehicle Safety BMW. “The extremely stable body structure and the extended range of restraint systems ensure an outstanding level of occupant protection. In addition, the BMW iX scores highly both in the test programme and in everyday driving with innovative driver assistance systems that significantly reduce the risk of accidents in a wide array of situations.” Among other features, the BMW iX has a front collision warning system with brake intervention that can detect pedestrians and cyclists as well as vehicles. In addition, the automatic emergency braking system now also reacts in turning situations, helping to minimise the risk to pedestrians when turning and the risk of collision with oncoming traffic when turning left.

If a collision does occur, the risk of injury to vulnerable road users is reduced by carefully designed body elements and flexible structures at the front of the vehicle. The BMW iX also features an active bonnet, which is raised by means of a pyrotechnical triggering mechanism as soon as the data collected by sensors indicate a corresponding collision. This creates a deformation zone that prevents direct impact between the pedestrian or cyclist and hard components in the engine compartment.

Other standard features of the BMW iX include an attention assistant, lane departure warning and speed limit recognition, all of which scored positively in the Euro NCAP crash test. The Driving Assistant Professional package is offered as an option, which also includes steering and lane guidance assistance. In a separate assessment, BMW’s Driving Assistant Professional in the iX3 was also recently awarded the top rating of “very good” by Euro NCAP.

The figures for fuel consumption, CO₂ emissions, power consumption and range are measured using the methods required according to Regulation (EC) 2007/715 as amended. They refer to vehicles on the automotive market in Germany. For ranges, the WLTP figures take into account the effects of any optional equipment.

All figures have already been determined on the basis of the new WLTP test cycle. WLTP values are used as a basis for the assessment of taxes and other vehicle-related levies that are (also) based on CO₂ emissions and, where applicable, for the purposes of vehicle-specific subsidies. Further information on the WLTP and NEDC measurement procedures can be found at www.bmw.de/wltp.

More information about the official fuel consumption figures and the official specific CO₂ emissions of new passenger cars can be obtained from the “Guideline on fuel consumption, CO₂ emissions and power consumption of new passenger cars”, available free of charge from all outlets, from Deutsche Automobil Treuhand GmbH (DAT), Hellmuth-Hirth-Str. 1, 73760 Ostfildern-Scharnhausen, and at https://www.dat.de/co2/.

Please address any queries to:

Corporate Communications

Dieter Falkensteiner, Press Officer BMW Group Innovation and Design

Telephone: +49-89-382-51813

E-mail: Dieter.Falkensteiner@bmwgroup.com

Paloma Brunckhorst, Press Officer Product Communications BMW iX

Telephone: +49-89-382-22322

E-mail: Paloma.Brunckhorst@bmwgroup.com

Almut Stollberg, Head of Communications Innovation, Design, Technology, Digital Car

Telephone: +49 89 382 96543

E-mail: Almut.Stollberg@bmw.de,

Ingo Wirth, Head of Product and Brand Communications BMW

Telephone: +49-89-382-25814

E-mail: Ingo.Wirth@bmwgroup.com

Internet: https://newsroom.bmwgroup.com/global/en

E-mail: presse@bmwgroup.com

The BMW Group

With its four brands BMW, MINI, Rolls-Royce and BMW Motorrad, the BMW Group is the world’s leading premium manufacturer of automobiles and motorcycles and also provides premium financial and mobility services. The BMW Group production network comprises 31 production and assembly facilities in 15 countries; the company has a global sales network in more than 140 countries.

In 2020, the BMW Group sold over 2.3 million passenger vehicles and more than 169,000 motorcycles

worldwide. The profit before tax in the financial year 2020 was € 5.222 billion on revenues amounting to € 98.990 billion. As of 31 December 2020, the BMW Group had a workforce of 120,726 employees.

The success of the BMW Group has always been based on long-term thinking and responsible action. The company set the course for the future at an early stage and consistently makes sustainability and efficient resource management central to its strategic direction, from the supply chain through production to the end of the use phase of all products.

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Munich. BMW is taking its successful co-creation initiative to a new level with the market launch of the two fully electric BMW iX and BMW i4 vehicles. BMW’s “Moving Minds” initiative combines strong content ideas with social media stars such as podcaster and sustainability activist Gemma Styles; twice Grammy-nominated artist, DJ and music producer Steve Aoki; and entrepreneur, model, actor and artist Luka Sabbat. The collaboration between BMW and its partners results in authentic storytelling. “I love learning about progress in sustainability and working with others who feel the same way. The fact that this Moving Minds group, with all their different talents, needs and backgrounds, can stand together to drive change in sustainable mobility is fun and meaningful at the same time”, says Gemma Styles about the “Moving Minds” campaign.

“Moving Minds” focuses on the latest BMW i models. Together with the brand, the partners present the two new electric BMW iX and i4 vehicles to a broad digital audience. “Moving Minds” comprises 11 strong-minded personalities from various social fields such as art, music, fashion, lifestyle, sustainability and technology who put the two models through their paces over six months and post their experiences on social media. “Working with this talented group is so inspiring and refreshing to see that no matter our background, we can always decide to change our ways of living and the way we treat each other. Reconsidering tradition to save our planet by thinking twice about the choices we make”, says Steve Aoki.

All the co-creators will share a “Big Picture” on their channels on 13 November to kick off this campaign. Their combined social community reaches a total of around 75 million fans. “Moving Minds” will be using the #bornelectric hashtag to present the BMW iX and the BMW i4 to their followers from their own personal perspective over the coming weeks. BMW will also publish selected posts on its social media channels. BMW was able to gain the services of the well-known photographer Jens Koch for the campaign pictures. The photographer, known for his special visual language, staged the co-creators together with the two new electric vehicles at exclusive locations.

BMW had already set new standards in co-creator communication during the IAA Mobility 2021. The brand united its global network of ambassadors at the international motor show in Munich to work with them to produce creative content around the important themes of electromobility and the circular economy. “The projects with our co-creators during the IAA Mobility have demonstrated how sustainability innovations can be communicated in a captivating and creative way and how new and diverse target groups can be reached authentically. We are proud to further expand our cooperation with this select group of personalities, our Moving Minds, and to jointly strengthen the communication messages around the market launches of the BMW iX and i4,” says Stefan Ponikva, Head of BMW Brand Communication and Experience.

Wide-reaching social media activities for the market launch of the two all-electric BMW iX and BMW i4 models.

BMW is now turning even more intensively to a young community in cooperation with the established network of opinion leaders for the market launch of the BMW iX and the BMW i4. The co-creators credibly outline to their target groups how the company lives and implements its electromobility, using the two new electric models from BMW as examples. Luka Sabbat says of the cooperation: “The purpose of my platform is to inspire and encourage young people to pursue their dreams. As part of the Moving Minds group, I can also introduce them to a new way of mobility. I want them to see that sick design and performance of a car is not at odds with sustainable driving and environmental protection”.

BMW’s international co-creator community is made up of diverse, well-known personalities from different areas of society. These include other well-known personalities such as Academy Award-winner Hans Zimmer, British photographer and Gen-Z advocate Brooklyn Beckham, singer and songwriter Khalid, actor, writer, and co-presenter of art podcast “Talk Art” Russell Tovey, Italian blogger and entrepreneur Chiara Ferragni, as well as long-time BMW brand ambassador, model and entrepreneur Lena Gercke, singer Zoe Wees and six-time skateboarding world champion Nyjah Huston.

Please find attached on location media of the International Media Launch of the first ever BMW iX.

Munich. The sales launch of the BMW iX and the BMW i4 in November 2021 marks the beginning of a new era of purely electric premium mobility. In addition to sustainable driving pleasure, the two new models also offer the latest innovations in the field of driver assistance systems and, with the new generation of the BMW iDrive operating system, represent the future of intuitive interaction between driver and vehicle. Parallel to this, the BMW model range will also undergo targeted further development in autumn 2021. Additional drive variants and innovations in the areas of design and digital services increase the diversity and attractiveness of the current range.

The model range of the new BMW 4 Series Convertible will be expanded by three new drive variants from November 2021. In future, an 8-speed Steptronic transmission will be standard equipment for one additional model variant each of the BMW X1 and the BMW X2. New paint finishes are available for the BMW 1 Series, BMW 2 Series Gran Coupé, BMW X2, BMW X3 and BMW X4 models. The functional scope of the My BMW App is complemented by further digital services. The BMW i brand is not only setting trends with its two new models. The pioneer of all-electric premium mobility, the BMW i3, will be offered in a limited Unique Forever Edition from November 2021. And in the BMW iX3, a predictive battery heat management system will optimise the way in which DC fast charging stations will be used in the future.

BMW 4 Series Convertible: Two additional BMW M automobiles and a further all-wheel drive model.
The combination of sporty performance and open-air pleasure in a BMW 4 Series model will be enriched even further in autumn 2021. In the new BMW M 440i Convertible (combined fuel consumption: 8.3 – 7.7 l/100 km according to WLTP; combined CO₂ emissions: 190 - 175 g/km according to WLTP), a 275 kW/374 hp inline 6-cylinder petrol engine with 48-volt mild hybrid technology ensures particularly purist driving pleasure by transferring its power to the rear wheels. An 8-speed Steptronic sports transmission and an M sports differential in the final drive also contribute to the thrilling driving dynamics as standard. This is reflected, among other things, by accerlation from 0 - 100 km/h from standstill in 5.2 seconds.

An inline 6-cylinder diesel engine and the intelligent BMW xDrive all-wheel drive system make the second new BMW M automobile a thrilling open-top drive. With a peak output of 250 kW/340 hp, a maximum torque of 700 Nm and 48-volt mild hybrid technology, the new BMW M440d xDrive Convertible (combined fuel consumption: 6.6 – 6.0 l/100 km according to WLTP; combined CO₂ emissions: 172 - 157 g/km according to WLTP) has impressive pulling power. 5.0 seconds are sufficient for the sprint from 0 to 100 km/h. An 8-speed Steptronic sports transmission and an M sports differential are also standard equipment in this model variant.

In addition, the model range for the open-top four-seater in the premium mid-size segment is expanded to include the new BMW 430i xDrive Convertible (combined fuel consumption: 8.1 – 7.3 l/100 km according to WLTP; combined CO₂ emissions: 183 - 166 g/km according to WLTP). With its 180 kW/245 hp 4-cylinder petrol engine, an 8-speed Steptronic transmission and intelligent all-wheel drive, it accelerates from zero to 100 km/h in 6.3 seconds. The 8-speed Steptronic sports transmission and the M sports differential are optionally available for this model.

BMW X1 xDrive18d and BMW X2 xDrive18d now feature 8-speed Steptronic transmission as standard.
Driving pleasure and comfort will be enhanced in autumn 2021 as the 8-speed Steptronic transmission is included in further model variants of the BMW X1 and BMW X2 as standard. The fast and efficient automatic transmission is characterised by a high level of shifting comfort and a particularly favourable internal efficiency. In future, it will also be available as standard with the 110 kW/150 hp 4-cylinder diesel engine of the BMW X1 xDrive18d models (combined fuel consumption: 6.1 – 5.4 l/100 km according to WLTP; combined CO₂ emissions: 159 – 142 g/km according to WLTP) and the BMW X2 xDrive18d (combined fuel consumption: 6.1 – 5.4 l/100 km according to WLTP; combined CO₂ emissions: 160 - 142 g/km according to WLTP).

With the new drive combination, both models accelerate from zero to 100 km/h in 9.4 seconds. An optional 8-speed Steptronic sports transmission is also available, operated by paddle shifts on the steering wheel.

New paint finishes for numerous model series.
New paint finishes for numerous current BMW models allow for additional customisation opportunities. The Skyscraper Grey metallic variant will be available for the BMW 1 Series, the BMW X2 and the BMW X3 from November 2021. Also new to the range are the BMW Individual paint finishes Frozen Pure Grey metallic for the BMW 1 Series and the BMW 2 Series Gran Coupé, as well as Aventurine Red metallic for the BMW X3 and the BMW X4.

My BMW App with extended range of functions.
Planning travel routes and transferring them to the car, receiving information about the car’ status and live images from its surroundings, arranging service appointments or receiving news from the brand - the My BMW app makes all this possible on the customer's smartphone. It serves as a universal interface for communication between car and customer, the BMW brand and the BMW dealer. The range of functions of the My BMW App will be expanded again in autumn 2021. In future, for example, the images transmitted by the Remote 3D View service will be stored in a gallery, including information about the location and time of the shots. The status of the vehicle's air conditioning and ventilation is now also clearly displayed in the My BMW app.

In addition, the My BMW app now also provides the driver with comprehensive information on the condition of the vehicle's tyres on his or her smartphone. The so-called digital tyre diagnosis helps to minimise the risk of flat tyres and is available for a wide range of models (currently BMW 1 Series, 2 Series Coupé, 2 Series Gran Coupé, 3 Series, 4 Series, Z4) and for the new i4 and iX models. The individual tyre inflation pressures determined by the tyre pressure control are now also displayed in the My BMW app. In addition, the digital tyre diagnosis, which is unique in the competitive environment, can transfer early signs of a gradual tyre pressure loss or wear to the My BMW app and the vehicle. For this, the BMW back end uses an AI approach to process data from the tyres to create a forecast of the remaining distance of the tyres. In all cases, the customer receives appropriate recommendations for action.

Intelligent battery heat management for the BMW iX3.
To ensure the fastest and most efficient power feed at DC fast-charging stations, regardless of operating and outside temperatures, the BMW iX3 (combined power consumption: 19.0 - 18.6 kWh/100 km according to WLTP, 17.8 - 17.5 kWh/100 km according to NEDC) will be equipped with a pre-heating function for the high-voltage battery from November 2021. At the customer's request, it ensures that the battery is preconditioned while driving to a direct current (DC) charging station. By heating up the high-voltage battery accordingly, the ideal temperature for charging with maximum power is set on arrival. Among other things, the battery temperature, the remaining range and the state of charge of the battery are taken into account.

BMW i3 and BMW i3s in the Unique Forever Edition.
From November 2021, the BMW i3 models (combined electricity consumption: 16.3 - 15.3 kWh/100 km according to WLTP, 13.1 kWh/100 km according to NEDC and BMW i3s (combined electricity consumption: 16.6 - 16.3 kWh/100 km according to WLTP, 14.6 - 14.0 kWh/100 km according to NEDC) in the Unique Forever Edition. The naming of the new special edition refers to the unique character of the world's first premium automobile designed from the outset for purely electric mobility. The BMW i3 represents a holistic understanding of sustainability not only with its drive system, but also with its particularly lightweight passenger cell made of carbon fibre-reinforced plastic (CFRP) and extensive use of natural and recycled materials in its interior. Eight years after being launched on the market, it is still a globally recognised symbol of locally emission-free urban mobility.

The edition vehicles are characterised by particularly high-grade and exclusive design and equipment features. The two BMW Individual paint finishes, available for the first time for the BMW i3, ensure a stylish appearance. The Aventurine Red metallic variant is combined with an accent in Frozen Grey metallic and the Storm Bay metallic paint finish with an accent in Frozen E-Copper. The interior surfaces of the BMW grille are also finished in the respective accent colour. Other special features include the omission of the trim strip and model lettering on the luggage compartment lid and a black insert for the rear bumper. In the interior of the edition vehicles, the contents of the Suite equipment world - including the Vernasca Dark Truffle leather combination, the leather instrument panel, the fine wood surface in dark matt oak, the leather steering wheel, the Carum grey roof lining and the ambient lighting - are supplemented by specific design elements. The front headrests are embroidered with the words "Unique Forever", the door trim panels in the area of the exterior mirrors bear the inscription "One of 2,000“.

The Unique Forever Edition models are produced in a limited edition of 2,000 units at the BMW plant in Leipzig. Only electricity generated by the wind turbines on the factory premises is used. 350 of the sustainably manufactured edition vehicles are available for the German market.

* all new models available from start of production in November 2021

Highest standards of flexibility: All drive train variants on one line +++ Successful transformation of BMW Group plants towards e-mobility and digitalisation +++ Half of Dingolfing's production volume will be electrified by mid-decade +++ Nedeljković: “setting ourselves ambitious goals for the most sustainable production”

Dingolfing. Standard production of the fully-electric BMW iX* began today in Dingolfing. The plant in Lower Bavaria now produces vehicles with all drive train variants, i.e. combustion-engine vehicles, plug-in hybrids and fully-electric models, on a single line. Milan Nedeljković, member of the Board of Management of BMW AG, responsible for Production: “The launch of the BMW iX* marks another milestone in our expansion of electrification and demonstrates our production network's successful transformation towards electromobility and digitalisation.”

The BMW iX* is being manufactured at the BMW Group’s largest European production plant on an assembly line with the flexibility to build a mix of BMW 5 Series, 7 Series and 8 Series models. To handle this flexibility and variety of drive trains, vehicle assembly in Dingolfing has been expanded and refurbished. The BMW Group has invested a total of more than 400 million euros in producing the BMW iX* at the Dingolfing vehicle plant. Many of the remodelling and structural measures required for the BMW iX* are already benefiting future generations of the BMW 7 Series and 5 Series that will come off the production line in Dingolfing in the coming years. Fully-electric variants have also been announced for both model ranges.

Half of production volume already electrified by mid-decade

With the BMW iX* and other PHEV models at Plant Dingolfing alone, the BMW Group plans to double the percentage of electrified vehicles produced this year compared to 2020. By the middle of the decade, half the vehicles produced in Dingolfing will be electrified. The new model will play an important part in this. “The BMW iX* will already be one of the highest-volume model at the location by next year,” according to Nedeljković. The BMW iX* will be followed in the autumn by the BMW i4*, which will be built in Munich. At the end of next year, all German plants will be producing at least one fully-electric vehicle.

Broad know-how: Vehicle and e-drive production on site

Production of the BMW iX* in Dingolfing benefits from broad know-how and expertise in the technologies located at the site. Close interaction between these different areas enables a high level of in-house activity and short lines of communication, as well as ensuring optimum production technology overall. The fully-electric heart of the BMW iX* – the highly integrated e-drive and fifth-generation battery, as well as the complete electric axle are produced on site, together with the Dingolfing component plants. Production capacity will be systematically expanded and, from 2022, Dingolfing will be able to produce e-drives for more than half a million electrified vehicles.

BMW iX* as trailblazer

The BMW iX* introduces a multitude of innovations to the product and production processes at the plant – especially in the vehicle’s electrical system architecture, software, digital services, connectivity and automated driving functions. As a result, the vehicle plays an important role as a trailblazer and is making Dingolfing “e-car” and “smart-car ready” as the BMW Group’s primary plant for the luxury class.

The BMW iX* is also an important trailblazer in production, bringing future technologies into the production system – such as digital methods for employee training, automation of logistics processes, virtual commissioning and validation of driver assistance systems.

Christoph Schröder, head of BMW Group Plant Dingolfing: “As the primary plant for the luxury class, our location produces the BMW Group’s technology flagship. It is once again proving itself as a pioneer for the mobility of tomorrow and as the industry leader in key future areas of automotive activity, such as electrification, digitalisation and sustainability. In this way, the BMW iX* is continuing the successful transformation of the BMW Group location in Dingolfing that began long ago.”

Special focus on sustainability

The topic of sustainability is firmly anchored throughout the company. A particular focus is on improving our carbon footprint – especially in production of electric vehicles. Independent auditors have confirmed that the greenhouse gas potential of the BMW iX xDrive40* is around 45 percent lower than that of a comparable Sports Activity Vehicle with an internal combustion engine. “We are already the sustainability benchmark for our industry. But we will continue to invest in resource-saving technologies and set ourselves ambitious goals for the most sustainable production,” underlined head of Production Milan Nedeljković. The BMW Group takes a holistic approach to reducing CO₂ emissions and minimising resource consumption that covers the entire value chain, including production as well as the supply chain and use phase.

The BMW Group has already succeeded in lowering resource consumption per vehicle produced by more than half between 2006 and 2020. CO₂ emissions have been reduced even more significantly – by as much as 78 percent. The aim is to reduce CO₂ emissions per vehicle produced by another 80 percent by 2030. “To achieve this, we have made some changes at Plant Dingolfing and implemented a series of new measures,” says plant director Christoph Schröder. For example, the BMW iX* is produced exclusively using regional and directly sourced green power from two hydroelectric power plants located on the Isar and Lech rivers. The entire plant, like all BMW Group locations, will also be net carbon neutral from this year, through the use of corresponding offsets and certificates.

Other aspects of sustainability range from energy-efficient installations to packaging planning, through transport logistics and recycling, up to and including topics such as biodiversity and water management. Plant Dingolfing is therefore able to achieve a recycling rate of more than 90 percent and an even higher recoverability rate of over 99 percent. The plant’s own wells meet over 40 percent of its water needs, thereby helping conserve the region’s drinking water reserves. The BMW Group has already reduced its water consumption by more than 30 percent overall since 2006.

BMW iX* as catalyst for change: Active shift in competence.

The BMW iX* creates a need for additional training beyond the extensive experience and expertise that is already available. It is accelerating the shift in competence already taking place within the production network and helping prepare the workforce for the demands of a new era. In this way, employee development across the entire company is being geared towards digitalisation and e-mobility. As part of the biggest training offensive in the company’s history, 75,000 staff are being trained in future areas of activity.

In Dingolfing alone, more than 4,000 employees have moved to jobs with strong future prospects since 2012. A current example of this is the creation and expansion of the Competence Centre for E-Drive Production at the location, which doubled its staff numbers last year from 600 to 1,200. This number is likely to increase to over 1,900 by the end of the year.

Munich. Local emission-free driving pleasure has never been greater than with the first-ever BMW iX and the first-ever BMW i4. The fitting soundtrack for the debut of the latest all-electric models is called "Higher Power" and comes from the British band Coldplay. You can hear the quartet's latest single in the TV commercials filmed for launching the joint worldwide communication campaign for the two new models. It delivers the perfect message with the lyric line "This joy is electric". The song for a new era of individual mobility marks the beginning of a long-term collaboration between BMW and Coldplay.

Back in 2014, Coldplay, made up of Chris Martin, Jonny Buckland, Will Champion and Guy Berryman, performed before 1,500 fans at the end of their "Ghost Stories Tour" at BMW Welt in Munich. On the basis of the contact established at that time, a creative connection has now been established between the premium car manufacturer and the band, which has achieved worldwide success in the charts. This is based in particular on a common interest in sustainability in various areas of life.

"In the initial discussions we quickly realised: Coldplay and BMW share many common goals that go far beyond marketing," says Jens Thiemer, Senior Vice President Customer and Brand BMW. "Based on this we developed a real co-creation in which the band actively contributed their thoughts and attitude to the design of our campaign for the BMW iX and the BMW i4." The shared awareness of sustainability gave rise to an intensive creative process between BMW and the British musicians and which will produce further co-created elements later in the year.

For the BMW Group, the premiere of the BMW iX and the BMW i4 is an important milestone in the current phase of its transformation towards electric mobility. The company expects all-electric models to account for at least 50 percent of its global vehicle sales as early as 2030. The Coldplay musicians are looking for innovative ways to combine their popularity and performances in front of thousands of enthusiastic fans with a positive impact with regard to sustainability. The band said "We are proud to partner with BMW as part of our efforts to make everything we do as sustainable as possible. The technology that BMW use for their electric cars can power our live performances almost entirely from renewable energy."

For the premiere of their new song "Higher Power", Coldplay already managed to overcome the usual boundaries of the music business. Last month, Coldplay premiered "Higher Power” in space. The song was played for the first time by French astronaut Thomas Pesquet on the International Space Station. Shortly after, the band played its first live set of 2021 for earthly audiences in a special livestream from the site of Glastonbury Festival.

With the launch for the campaign film for the BMW iX and the BMW i4, fans all over the world can now enjoy the sound of "Higher Power". "And that's just the beginning," announces Stefan Ponikva, Vice President BMW Brand Communication and Brand Experience. "We are already looking forward to being able to realise exciting projects with regard to sustainability in an intensive and substantial collaboration with Coldplay."

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=loYO_aNqYOI

The BMW iX is ready for series production and is due to arrive on the world’s roads from November 2021. The BMW Group’s new technology flagship combines locally emission-free driving pleasure, sporting agility and a compelling operating range with a character profile dedicated squarely to sustainability. With its trailblazing design and an interior devoted to luxurious spaciousness, the BMW iX embodies a fresh new take on the Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV) concept. Conceived from the outset for purely electric mobility, this model is based on a new toolkit for the future, whose vast potential for innovations in the areas of automated driving, operation, connectivity and digital services translates into a premium mobility experience unparalleled in this segment.

The BMW iX will be launched with a choice of two model variants. Both are equipped with an electric all-wheel-drive system, with combined output of 385 kW/523 hp in the BMW iX xDrive50 (electric power consumption combined in the WLTP cycle: 23.0 – 19.8 kWh/100 km [62 miles]; CO₂ emissions: 0 g/km) and 240 kW/326 hp in the BMW iX xDrive40 (electric power consumption combined in the WLTP cycle: 22.5 – 19.4 kWh/100 km [62 miles]; CO₂ emissions: 0 g/km). The drive technology’s efficiency paired to the very latest battery cell technology results in WLTP-calculated ranges of up to 630 kilometres (391 miles) in the BMW iX xDrive50 and up to 425 kilometres (264 miles) in the BMW iX xDrive40. Also set to join the model line-up at a later date is the BMW iX M60 (electric power consumption combined in the WLTP cycle: 21.6 kWh/100 km [62 miles]; CO₂ emissions: 0 g/km) with a maximum output in excess of 440 kW/600 hp that promises an exceptionally sporty all-electric driving experience. (The figures relating to motor output and energy consumption for the BMW iX M60 are predicted values based on the car’s current stage of development.)

Well-balanced driving characteristics.
The body structure, design principle and chassis tuning of the BMW iX are perfectly geared to blending superb ride comfort with sporty handling characteristics. The aluminium spaceframe construction and the Carbon Cage’s use of carbon fibre-reinforced plastic (CFRP) in the roof and at the sides and rear result in an intelligent material mix that increases rigidity at the same time as minimising weight. The optimised aerodynamic properties that contribute to the car’s drag coefficient of just 0.25 also have a positive impact on efficiency and range. The high-voltage battery located low down in the car’s underbody lowers the centre of gravity, combining with the even weight distribution to make handling more nimble. Thanks to its well-balanced driving characteristics, the BMW iX feels solid and comfortable out on the road, yet also exudes fleet-footed agility.

The standard chassis technology for the BMW iX comprises a double-wishbone front axle, five-link rear axle, lift-related dampers and an electric steering system with Servotronic function and a variable ratio. Two-axle air suspension with electronically controlled dampers, Integral Active Steering and Sport brakes can all be found on the options list. As an alternative to the standard 20-inch light-alloy wheels, there is a choice of 21-inch and 22-inch Air Performance Wheels. These can be fitted with noise-reduced tyres, which have a layer of foam on their inner surface to improve acoustic comfort.

Electric all-wheel drive and near-actuator wheel slip limitation.
The electric all-wheel-drive system in the BMW iX transmits exactly the right amount of drive torque to the front and rear wheels in all driving situations. Its intelligent control enables fully variable power transmission ranging from highly efficient pure rear-wheel drive through to an all-wheel-drive set-up that maximises traction.

The near-actuator wheel slip limitation technology fitted in tandem with all-wheel drive for the first time brings about a further improvement in traction and handling stability. Integrated into the motor management, this system produces very precise and lightning fast corrective inputs and thereby enables the car to make effortless progress at all times, even in adverse weather and road conditions. The BMW iX xDrive50 posts acceleration of 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 4.6 seconds, while the BMW iX xDrive40 hits the same mark from rest in 6.1 seconds.

Highly integrated and efficient drive technology.
The fifth-generation BMW eDrive technology fitted in the BMW iX is centred around a drive unit which brings together the electric motor, power electronics and transmission within a single housing. This highly integrated electric drive system topology has a beneficial effect on both power density and efficiency, at the same time as making highly economical use of the installation space in the area between the front and rear axle.

Both motors in the BMW iX work according to the principle of an electrically excited synchronous motor, where the excitation of the rotor is induced by the feed-in of electrical energy rather than fixed permanent magnets. This enables them to put their maximum torque on tap immediately on pulling away and maintain it over an extremely broad rev band. Combined torque peaks at 630 Nm (464 lb-ft) in the BMW iX xDrive40 and an even higher 765 Nm (564 lb-ft) in the BMW iX xDrive50.

Adaptive and individually regulated recuperation.
Adaptive recuperation gives a further boost to the efficiency and range of the BMW iX. Intelligently connected drive management means the intensity of the brake energy recuperation during overrun and active braking can be adapted to the road situation, as detected by data from the navigation system and the sensors used by the driver assistance systems. When approaching a junction, for example, the degree of recuperation can be increased, in order to feed energy back into the high-voltage battery while harnessing the deceleration effect at the same time. On the open road, meanwhile, the coasting function can take over, allowing the car to “freewheel” with no drive power whenever the driver eases off the accelerator.

Adaptive recuperation is the default setting in driving position D. Alternatively, the driver can choose a high, medium or low Brake Energy Regeneration setting for all driving situations in the BMW iDrive menu. The highest recuperation setting is automatically activated in driving position B, which also produces the characteristic one-pedal feeling. Information on the energy flow can be viewed in the control display no matter which driving position is selected. The Efficiency Trainer offers hints for driving in a very economical manner, while the range horizon clearly illustrates the impact of driving style on the high-voltage battery’s charge level.

High-voltage battery with the very latest battery cell technology.
Fifth-generation BMW eDrive technology also includes a high-voltage battery with state-of-the-art battery cell technology. Its volumetric energy density at cell level is up by around 40 per cent compared to the high-voltage battery in the 2020 BMW i3. The BMW iX xDrive50 is fitted with a high-voltage battery with a net energy content of 105.2 kWh (gross energy content: 111.5 kWh), while the battery unit for the BMW iX xDrive40 has a net energy content of 71 kWh (gross energy content: 76.6 kWh).

The standard specification of the BMW iX includes an integrated heating and cooling system for the cabin, together with its high-voltage battery and a drive system that operates using an exceptionally efficient heat pump function. Anticipatory thermal management enables the high-voltage battery’s operating temperature to be optimised for quick and efficient charging prior to a scheduled stop at a fast-charging station.

The Combined Charging Unit (CCU) in the BMW iX has been designed to offer a very high level of charging flexibility. DC power can be taken on board at a rate of up to 200 kW (BMW iX xDrive50) or 150 kW (BMW iX xDrive40). This allows the battery’s state of charge to be increased from 10 to 80 per cent in around 35 minutes in the BMW iX xDrive50 or 31 minutes in the case of the BMW iX xDrive40. What is more, range can be increased by up to 150 kilometres (93 miles) for the BMW iX xDrive50 and over 95 kilometres (59 miles) for the BMW iX xDrive40 in just ten minutes when they are plugged into a DC fast-charging station with an initial battery charge of 10 per cent. BMW iX models in Europe are supplied complete with a BMW Charging Card, the Flexible Fast Charger offering a charging rate of up to 11 kW and a mode 3 charging cable for public charging stations. The special tariff system offered by BMW Charging allows electrical power to be replenished at a very attractive price at both public charging stations and high-power charging stations.

Premiere for the new generation of the BMW iDrive control/operation system.
The new generation of the iDrive display and operating system making its debut in the BMW iX expands the interaction between driver and vehicle and turns it into a natural dialogue. It is based on the new BMW Operating System 8 and was designed with a clear focus on the touchscreen operation of the BMW Curved Display and on verbal communication with the BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant, which has also undergone an extensive upgrade. The BMW Curved Display is a fully digital display grouping formed by a 12.3-inch information display and a control display with a screen diagonal of 14.9 inches housed together behind a glass surface that is angled towards the driver. The digital personal assistant now boasts additional capabilities and uses a new graphic when communicating with the vehicle’s occupants.

The new My Modes expand the range of vehicle settings that can be selected, thereby creating an all-encompassing driving experience. Remote Software Upgrades and the option of also purchasing vehicle functions later from the BMW ConnectedDrive Store via Functions on Demand, then having them installed over the air, keep the vehicle software “always fresh”. Navigation using the cloud-based system BMW Maps and Augmented Reality Video in the control display ensures quick and accurate route planning while also making it easy for the driver to find their way on the road. The use of 5G mobile technology for data transmission and the ability to integrate a personal mobile account into the car using the personal eSIM reinforce the pioneering status of the BMW iX.

Wide variety of driver assistance systems.
The new technology toolkit in the BMW iX offers considerable potential for driving forward the development of automated driving and parking functions, with the prospect of Level 3 functionality in the medium term. A new generation of sensors, a new software stack and a powerful computing platform provide the basis for exceptional intelligence. Five cameras, five radar sensors and 12 ultrasonic sensors are used to monitor the vehicle’s surroundings.

The BMW iX comes equipped with the most extensive set of standard driver assistance systems ever seen on a BMW along with a wealth of innovations. The front collision warning system, for instance, now detects oncoming traffic when turning left (in countries where vehicles drive on the right) as well as cyclists and pedestrians when turning right. Availability of the optional Steering and Lane Control Assistant has been significantly expanded, while the optional Active Cruise Control with Stop&Go function offers enhanced situational distance adjustment. The exit warning function, which alerts to the presence of cyclists or pedestrians in the surrounding area before the doors are opened, and the Remote Theft Recorder are both new features. Also to be found on the standard equipment list for the BMW iX is the Parking Assistant including Reversing Assist Camera and the Reversing Assistant.

Exterior design exuding progressive luxury; spacious interior with a feel-good ambience.
The pioneering character of the BMW iX also clearly shines through in its exterior design. The clearly structured, reduced design language, the body’s imposing styling with muscular SAV proportions and the precisely crafted details create an aura of progressive luxury. Standout exterior features include the almost completely blanked-off BMW kidney grille, whose surface is the product of innovative manufacturing techniques and incorporates camera and radar sensors.

The BMW iX has been rigorously designed from the inside out. Its interior has been created to provide quality of life and personal well-being. Vast amounts of room and newly developed seats with integral head restraints set the tone for the luxurious ambience. The absence of a centre tunnel creates extra legroom and sufficient space for storage facilities and a centre console designed in the style of a high-quality piece of furniture. The control panel with feeler bars and active haptic input as well as a rocker switch for gear selection adds some very modern flourishes. Besides the BMW Curved Display, the hexagonal steering wheel and frameless projector integration for the optional Head‑Up Display further add to the focused driving experience. There is a choice of three different trims for customising the interior.

The automatic climate control system in the BMW iX comes with a nanofibre filter to purify the air and new touchscreen controls. The system intelligently combines interior ventilation and surface, seat and steering wheel heating to maximise the occupants’ sense of well-being. The optional Bowers & Wilkins Diamond Surround Sound System with speakers integrated out of sight in the head restraints and a 4D Audio function using bass shakers in the front seats promises the ultimate sound experience.

In addition to acoustic pedestrian protection, the BMW iX also features a specially composed drive sound, which adds to the thrill of the driving experience by providing authentic feedback in response to accelerator movements and speed. The BMW IconicSounds Electric function included as standard also allows new sound variants from a collaboration with film score composer Hans Zimmer to be added to the acoustic repertoire.

Production at BMW Group Plant Dingolfing using purely green power, monitored raw materials extraction, high proportion of natural and recycled materials.
The BMW iX will be produced at BMW Group Plant Dingolfing. Both the vehicle itself and the battery cells will be manufactured using green power across the board. The BMW Group procures the cobalt and lithium required for the high-voltage batteries from controlled sources in Australia and Morocco and delivers it to the battery cell manufacturers. The design principle for the electric motors allows the use of rare earth metals to be avoided in the drive system rotors. Added to which, the company sources aluminium produced using power from solar energy plants.

A high proportion of secondary aluminium and reused plastic also contribute to the resource-efficient production of the BMW iX. Its interior uses FSC-certified wood, leather tanned with olive leaf extracts and other natural materials. Recycled fishing nets are among the raw materials used for the floor coverings and mats.

• BMW Group continues to expand manufacturing capacity at the Competence Centre for E-Drive Production in Dingolfing
• E-drive trains for 500,000 electrified vehicles per year from 2022
• Extensive in-house drive train expertise: Start of production for fifth-generation high-voltage batteries in Germany
• Successful transformation to e-drive train production

Munich/Dingolfing. Production of fifth-generation high-voltage batteries and battery modules for use in the BMW iX* and BMW i4 is now underway at the Competence Centre for E-Drive Production in Dingolfing. At the same time, the company is also increasing production capacity for its fifth-generation electric motor, which has been built in Dingolfing for the BMW iX3* since 2020 and will also power the BMW iX* and BMW i4. “We expect at least 50 percent of the vehicles we deliver to our customers worldwide to be electrified by 2030. To achieve this, we are relying on our extensive in-house drive train expertise: We are increasing capacity at existing drive train production locations – like here in Dingolfing – and developing capabilities at others – like recently in Regensburg and Leipzig,” explained Dr Michael Nikolaides, Senior Vice President, Production Engines and E-Drives, BMW Group.

The BMW Group is investing more than 500 million euros in expanding production capacity for e-drives at its Dingolfing location alone between 2020 and 2022. From 2022, it will produce e-drives for more than half a million electrified vehicles. The BMW Group will invest a total of around 790 million euros in expanding capacity for electric powertrain components at its Dingolfing, Leipzig, Regensburg and Steyr locations between 2020 and 2022.

Standard production of the BMW iX* will soon get underway at BMW Group Plant Dingolfing, followed by production of the BMW i4 at Plant Munich in the autumn. The highly integrated e-drives and high-voltage batteries for these vehicles will all be manufactured at the Competence Centre for E-Drive Production in Dingolfing. The BMW Group already began producing battery components at Plants Regensburg and Leipzig in April and May 2021. In line with growing demand for e-drives, BMW Group Plants Landshut and Steyr are also stepping up production of e-drive housings.

Production of fifth-generation BMW eDrive technology

The output and energy content of drive units and high-voltage batteries with fifth-generation BMW eDrive technology can be flexibly scaled. This means they can be optimally adjusted to suit different model variants.

Each vehicle uses up to two highly integrated e-drives, which combine the electric motor, power electronics and transmission in a single housing. Based on the design principle of a current-excited rotor, the fifth-generation e-drive does not require any materials classified as rare-earth metals.

BMW eDrive technology also comprises a high-voltage battery with state-of-the-art battery cell technology. The BMW Group agreed with its suppliers that they will only use renewable green power for producing fifth-generation battery cells. The entire high-voltage battery boasts outstanding qualities in the areas of performance, charging and discharging characteristics, durability and safety. The technically standardised production process for battery modules has been further developed in such a way that different module variants can be produced on the same production line – in line with the growing range of electrified vehicle models and performance levels. The production systems are highly flexible and scalable. Battery modules are produced from supplied prismatic battery cells at the respective BMW Group production location. A modular system developed in-house allows model-specific high-voltage batteries to be manufactured from these modules in a flexible arrangement.

The company has outstanding expertise and experience, both in the field of battery cell technology and in production of model-specific high-voltage batteries. The BMW Group conducts basic research in the fields of cell chemistry and cell design at its own Battery Cell Competence Centre. The BMW Group also produces battery cell prototypes itself. These battery cell prototypes are used in tests to validate the development maturity of battery cells and to demonstrate the effectiveness of the production processes. In addition, the prototype production of the battery cells serves the identification of process potentials as well as the optimization of the production processes. In this way, the BMW Group gains a thorough understanding of the entire battery cell value chain and the decisive competitive advantages its chemical and technical properties offer. This enables battery cells to be manufactured to precise specifications that are geared towards each vehicle’s individual requirements.

Competence Centre for E-Drive Production

Following extensive expansion, the Competence Centre for E-Drive Production now provides a usable area of 125,000 sq. m. This is where the company manufactures electric motors and the components needed for them, as well as high-voltage batteries and battery modules. A paint coating is also applied to the battery cells at this location. The coating increases mechanical robustness and thermal conductivity, thereby improving insulation and cooling of the even more powerful fifth-generation battery cells.

Plant Dingolfing has been manufacturing standard high-voltage batteries and battery modules since 2013, when the BMW Group's first all-electric vehicle, the BMW i3*, went into production. The first production lines for electric motors and high-voltage batteries for plug-in hybrids went on-stream there in 2014. The Competence Centre for E-Drive Production has been steadily growing ever since. The plant has also been producing high-voltage batteries for the fully electric MINI Cooper SE* since 2019 and, since 2020, also the highly integrated fifth-generation e-drive used for the first time in the BMW iX3*. Production of the even more powerful high-voltage batteries for the BMW iX* and BMW i4 is now getting underway. E-drives for future models can also be produced on the flexible production lines.

Qualification for long-term, sustainable jobs

With the BMW Group systematically pursuing progress in electromobility, the demands on employees and their areas of responsibility are also constantly evolving. “We are growing our staff for e-drive production almost exclusively through personnel restructuring. We are actively shaping the transformation process and leveraging our employees’ skills so we can develop long-term sustainable jobs,” explains Nikolaides.

The Competence Centre for E-Drive Production in Dingolfing currently has almost 1,400 employees. By the end of 2021, around 1,900 employees are expected to work in e-drive production in Dingolfing.

Production employees receive further training at the in-house learning centre, which uses innovative vocational training and further education methods to provide employees with intensive preparation for their new tasks. Employees’ knowledge and skills are being expanded specifically to include new electromobility technologies, with a training concept that is constantly updated. The training sessions are held in the classroom, at practice workstations and directly on the production lines. Digital methods and augmented reality play a bigger role here than ever before. Thanks to these methods, the training courses were also able to continue safely during the coronavirus pandemic, in compliance with health and safety measures.

“The learning centre takes a holistic approach that supports employees throughout their professional development and further education, from their first day in production,” reports Dr Sven Jochmann, head of Production E-Drives Dingolfing, Landshut, Regensburg, Leipzig. “As well as trainers and managers, new colleagues are also supported by trained mentors who help them quickly find their way around their new working environment,” adds Jochmann.

Transformation of the Dingolfing location

The Dingolfing location is a prime example of the successful transformation of the BMW Group plants towards e-mobility and digitalisation. E-drive production, including electric motors and high-voltage batteries, is located in an existing, roughly 50-year-old building at the site, rather than using new space. The infrastructure was adapted to the new requirements and expanded accordingly. A modern staff restaurant seats 300 and there is also a new parking deck with space for 800 vehicles. The structural measures are rounded out by a 25,000 sq. m. logistics hall, new office spaces and social rooms close to the production area, as well as an additional plant gate in the south for improved logistics flows.

On the issue of sustainability, the BMW Group takes a holistic approach to reducing CO₂ emissions and minimising resource consumption that covers the entire value chain, including in-house production, the supply chain and use phase. In Dingolfing, as at all BMW Group locations, production uses only green power. In addition, all BMW Group locations have been net carbon neutral since this year, through corresponding offsets and certificates. The company is also using many other levers: from building technology to energy-efficient installations to increased use of renewable energies. Electric trucks will be used for intra-company goods transport at the Competence Centre for E-Drive Production from the autumn.

2030: At least 50 percent of global BMW Group sales will be fully electric

The BMW Group continues its massive electromobility ramp-up: The company will offer five fully-electric models by the end of this year: the BMW i3*, the MINI Cooper SE* and the BMW iX3*, as well as the two main innovation flagships, the BMW iX* and BMW i4.

Between now and 2025, the BMW Group will increase its sales of fully-electric models by an average of well over 50 percent per year – more than ten times the number of units sold in 2020. Based on its current market forecast, the company also expects at least 50 percent of its global sales to come from fully-electric vehicles in 2030. In total, over the next ten years or so, the BMW Group will be releasing about ten million fully-electric vehicles onto the roads.

Global e-drive production network with a focus in Germany

The high-voltage batteries and battery components needed for all BMW and MINI electrified vehicles come from the company’s own battery factories in Dingolfing, Leipzig and Regensburg in Germany, as well as from Spartanburg (USA) and Shenyang (China). The BMW Group has also localised production of high-voltage batteries in Thailand, at its Rayong plant, and is working with the Dräxlmaier Group for this. Munich is home to the e-drive pilot plant and the Battery Cell Competence Centre, where the BMW Group is conducting a full analysis of battery cell value creation processes and advancing technology for its production processes.

The company produces electric motors at the Competence Centre for E-Drive Production in Dingolfing and at BMW Group Plant Landshut. BMW Group Plant Steyr builds the housing for the highly integrated fifth-generation e-drive.

Munich.

The future of driving pleasure is electric, locally emission-free – and characterised by a typically BMW sporting flair expressed not only in dynamic talent, but also through an emotionally rich aural experience. BMW IconicSounds Electric brings an unmistakable sound portfolio to BMW models powered by a fully electric or plug-in hybrid drive system. The collaboration between composer and curator Hans Zimmer and Renzo Vitale, Creative Director Sound at the BMW Group, has produced a distinctive driving sound which customers will soon be able to experience in a version developed specially for electric BMW M cars. “Every BMW has its own character, which is reflected in the sound it makes,” says film music creator and Academy Award winner Zimmer. “So for the electrically driven BMW M models we have developed a driving sound which accentuates their emotional driving experience particularly vividly and ensures their performance can be felt with even greater intensity.”

Hans Zimmer had previously been involved in the development of an inspiring ready-to-drive sound for electrically powered BMWs which instils a sense of excitement at the prospect of electric driving when the Start/Stop button is pressed. The latest chapter in this collaboration covers drive sounds for the BMW iX and BMW i4, including a differentiated sound for the M-specification version of the BMW i4.

While the hush of electric driving offers an unprecedented level of comfort, the driving experience loses a degree of emotionality. This is where BMW IconicSounds Electric steps in to put smiles on the faces of customers keen to experience Sheer Driving Pleasure with all the senses. In the future, electric driving pleasure will be enhanced by acoustic feedback to every movement of the accelerator. Like the on-board driving modes selectable at the touch of a button, the driving sound also takes its cues from the driving situation at hand and the driver’s personal preferences. In the basic setting, BMW IconicSounds Electric employs a strikingly transparent timbre with spherical components to convey the basic character of an electrically driven BMW brand model. An immersive and pleasant atmosphere is created initially in the BMW i4 in COMFORT mode. But when the driver steps on the accelerator, the direct relationship between how the car is being driven and the sounds it makes is immediately revealed: the sound experience deepens as load and speed increase. In SPORT mode, in particular, the car’s aural spectrum is more dominant and powerful, the sound providing a constant commentary on the driving situation. Drive system processes are registered within milliseconds and acceleration, load changes or recuperation given a suitable acoustic accompaniment. Only when the vehicle is travelling in ECO PRO mode is the acoustic feedback reduced to nothing. Here, the silence of the drive system underscores the driver’s decision to adopt an ultra-efficient driving style.

In the version developed specifically for electrified BMW M models, the drive sound of the BMW i4 is charged with extra energy. Added to which, the differentiation between COMFORT and SPORT mode is especially strong. Overall, the drive system note displays a less harmonious but engagingly rousing and technical sonic profile. Acceleration sparks a rich intensification of the soundtrack’s development, authentically reflecting the car’s performance character. “When you press the pedal of an M car, you suddenly get goosebumps all over your body,” says sound designer Renzo Vitale. “We translated this feeling into a drive sound that expresses a fusion of superior power and flowing energy.”

Hans Zimmer and Renzo Vitale had already co-developed the driving sound for the BMW Vision M NEXT revealed in 2019 and the BMW Concept i4 presented the following year. Numerous learnings from this creative process have now been channelled into the design of the sound for future series-produced vehicles.

The new drive sounds developed as part of the collaboration with Hans Zimmer are expected to feature in the BMW i4 and BMW iX over the course of 2022. IconicSounds Electric comes as standard in the BMW iX and can be specified as an option for the BMW i4. In cars with earlier build dates, the new sounds can be imported retrospectively via Remote Software Upgrade, should the customer wish. The new spectrum includes one ready-to-drive sound and one stop sound, plus a driving sound which will be made available in the relevant version for BMW models and BMW M cars with electrified drive system.

Munich. Vehicles will need to be purely electric, sustainable in every way, more intelligent than ever and capable of conversing naturally with the driver to provide the driving pleasure of the future, as showcased by BMW at the Auto Shanghai 2021 show. And drivers will soon be able to experience this progressive form of personal mobility on the road in the BMW iX. The new model will celebrate its world premiere in real-life, series-produced form as the centrepiece of BMW’s presence in Shanghai, and its market launch in China will get underway over the course of 2021. The BMW Group’s new technology flagship embodies the company’s innovative talents in the areas of design, electric mobility, driving pleasure, sustainability, luxury and connectivity.

The BMW iX is first model in the brand’s line-up to feature the new Operating System 8 and the latest generation of BMW iDrive, which turns the interaction between the driver and vehicle into an intuitive, personal and emotionally engaging experience. At the same time, Operating System 8 provides the basis for the seamless integration of additional digital services. The enhanced possibilities for using market-specific apps in China that this enables brings another focal point to BMW’s presentation at Auto Shanghai 2021. Additional highlights include the world premiere of the BMW 7 Series Two-Tone special-edition model created exclusively for customers in China and a look ahead to the fully electric BMW i4 in M Sport specification.

Auto Shanghai is one of the world’s largest and most significant automotive shows and offers a fascinating overview of the latest industry trends and innovations once again this year. On 21 – 28 April 2021, automotive manufacturers, suppliers and service providers from around the world will flock to the halls of the National Exhibition and Convention Center (NECC) in China’s commercial capital to show off their new models, products and technologies. As an open-to-the-public event, Auto Shanghai 2021 will be held in compliance with strict hygiene regulations and feature extensive use of digital technology.

The BMW iX: opening the gates to a new era of personal mobility.
The physical world premiere of the BMW iX provides visitors to Auto Shanghai 2021 with a window into a new era of personal mobility. Developed around the BMW Group’s new, modular scalable toolkit as a modern Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV), the new model espouses a future-focused view of design, sustainability, driving pleasure, versatility and luxury. The BMW iX is wrapped in a clean-sheet design majoring on precision and minimalism. It combines the locally emission-free driving pleasure and sporting agility provided by electric all-wheel drive and a persuasive operating range with a character profile dedicated to sustainability from the ground up. This covers the whole lifecycle of the vehicle – from the sourcing of raw materials through manufacturing and use to subsequent recycling.

The BMW iX will be offered in two model variants when it goes on sale in late 2021. The electric motors fitted in the BMW iX xDrive50 and BMW iX xDrive40 are – like the power electronics, charging technology and high-voltage batteries – the product of fifth-generation BMW eDrive technology. This means output, dynamism, long-range driving ability and efficiency are all outstanding. The electric all-wheel drive of the BMW iX xDrive50 channels maximum output of more than 370 kW/500 hp to the road, enabling acceleration of 0 – 100 km/h (62 mph) in under 5.0 seconds, while also posting a range of more than 600 kilometres (373 miles) and power consumption below 21 kWh per 100 kilometres in the WLTP test cycle. The BMW iX xDrive40 has an output of more than 240 kW/300 hp and completes the sprint from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in a shade over 6.0 seconds. Its range is in excess of 400 kilometres (249 miles) and consumption less than 20.0 kWh per 100 kilometres. (All figures relating to performance, energy consumption and range are predicted values based on the car’s current stage of development.)

Like its electric all-wheel drive, the versatile interior of the new car also fits the character of a modern SAV. The vehicle concept and design of the BMW iX attaches a whole new level of focus to the needs of those on board. The car has been developed from the inside out. Its interior offers innovative options for using the time during a journey – and enjoying relaxation, safety, security, and a new form of luxury in the process.

The new technology toolkit, making its debut in the BMW iX, also underpins significant advances in the areas of connectivity and digital services. For example, the tech is designed to be able to process 20 times more data than existing models. And that means many times more sensor data can be processed. The sensor technology itself is likewise more powerful than ever. The BMW iX is also 5G-capable, enabling fast and reliable transfer of large quantities of data between the vehicle and the BMW Cloud.

The new BMW iDrive with seamlessly integrated digital services from Tencent.
The new generation of BMW iDrive lays on an all-encompassing, intelligent, multi-sensory experience tailored to the driver. A natural dialogue is created between the user and their vehicle with the aim of precisely tailoring all the functions controlled via BMW iDrive to the driver’s needs and preferences as the situation demands.

For many years now, BMW has offered customers around the world extensive integration of digital services from third-party providers via its iDrive system. Market-specific applications and services have also been integrated seamlessly into the vehicle’s operating system. Display and operation here will be familiar to customers from their smartphones. As well as the offerings from Apple and Google, apps relevant to the Chinese market provided by local platforms are also integrated. The introduction of BMW Operating System 8 and the latest iDrive generation takes the integration of services from Chinese platform Tencent, in particular, to a new level.

The Operating System 7 found in existing BMW models already enables integration of applications from Tencent which are extremely popular in China. The key ingredient here is the mini program platform from Tencent, which allows digital services in the areas of communication, travel, entertainment, infotainment, edutainment and gaming to be integrated seamlessly into the vehicle’s operating system. New features presented with the introduction of the latest-generation BMW iDrive include the newly developed integration of digital communication service WeChat.

Like the mini program platform as a whole, the WeChat application is integrated natively into the BMW Operating System. This means the functions included in the WeChat app can be operated in extremely user-friendly fashion via the on-board iDrive system, and are viewed on the BMW Curved Display in the familiar way. The various content is shown according to need and context on the information display or control display in the digital screen grouping. The individual functions can be activated quickly and intuitively via the operating system’s selectable apps menu.

The new integrated applications from Tencent will be available from the launch of the BMW iX in China. The initial range of WeChat functions that can be used comfortably, easily and safely in the vehicle via these applications include WeChat phone calls, voice messaging and sharing of location data, which can then be adopted immediately as a navigation destination. Additional functions and apps will also be integrated into the BMW Operating System and updated using the Tencent mini program platform in the future. You can find further information on the new generation of BMW iDrive here.

Stylish luxury for China: the BMW 7 Series Two-Tone special-edition model.
A new special edition of the BMW 7 Series embodying a unique combination of luxury, poise and exclusivity is set to be unveiled for the first time at Auto Shanghai 2021. The BMW 7 Series Two-Tone exudes an exceptionally stylish allure with its Cashmere Silver metallic/Aventurine Red metallic paintwork. The luxury sedan is based on the 12-cylinder BMW M760Li xDrive and will be produced in a limited run of just 25 examples exclusively for customers in China.

As well as BMW’s market-specific interpretation of exclusive driving enjoyment, visitors to Auto Shanghai 2021 will also be greeted by the latest expression of race-car thrills for everyday use – as BMW M GmbH presents its new high-performance sports cars for the premium midsize segment. The BMW M3 Competition Sedan (fuel consumption combined: 9.8 – 9.6 l/100 km [28.8 – 29.4 mpg imp] in the WLTP cycle; CO2 emissions combined: 224 – 219 g/km in WLTP) and BMW M4 Competition Coupé (fuel consumption combined: 9.8 – 9.6 l/100 km [28.8 – 29.4 mpg imp] in WLTP; CO2 emissions combined: 224 – 219 g/km in WLTP) will be launched in China imminently. The signature M characteristics of the 375 kW/510 hp six-cylinder in-line engine powering the two models, chassis technology optimised using racing car expertise and new setup customisation options provide owners with an inimitable experience of performance at work.

A look ahead to the BMW i4 in M Sport specification.
At Auto Shanghai 2021 the BMW i4 will offer a first impression of the BMW i4 with the M Sport equipment line set to be made available in China and other markets.
The BMW i4 is a fully electric four-door gran coupé, whose market launch is scheduled for 2021. Its perfect balance of customary BMW sporting ability, long-distance comfort and sustainable performance is unique in this segment. The BMW i4 model range will include a selection of variants enabling a range of up to 590 km / 367 miles in the WLTP cycle or up to 300 miles in EPA testing. The BMW i4 develops output of up to 390 kW /530 hp, enabling it to accelerate from 0 – 100 km/h (62 mph) in four seconds.

The most exacting environmental compatibility requirements have been put in place throughout the value chain and for the full life cycle of the BMW iX. The car is currently in the final phase of its series development. At market launch – which will get underway at the end of 2021 – customers will be able to choose from two model variants: the BMW iX xDrive50 and BMW iX xDrive40.

The BMW iX redefines the successful Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV) concept. It is the first model based on a new, modular, scalable toolkit on which the future of the BMW Group will be built. The development and production of the BMW iX follow an all-encompassing approach to sustainability involving compliance with strict environmental and social standards in the extraction of raw materials, plus the use of electricity from renewable sources and a high proportion of recycled materials in the mix.

“Technology is driving the advances we need to tackle even the greatest challenges. This applies in particular to climate protection,” says Oliver Zipse, Chairman of the Board of Management of BMW AG. “We are in no doubt: mobility has to be sustainable if it is to represent a truly outstanding solution. For the BMW Group, premium mobility is not possible without responsibility.”

“We made a promise and we will deliver on that promise: the market launch of the BMW iX will get underway at the end of this year with a two-pronged approach – in the form of the BMW iX xDrive40 and BMW iX xDrive50,” says Pieter Nota, Member of the Board of Management of BMW AG, responsible for Customer, Brands and Sales. “We have already set out the pricing for Germany. For example, the BMW iX xDrive40 will start at 77,300 EUR, which puts it at the level of a comparable BMW X5 with conventional combustion engine. Plus, our customers will now benefit from new additions to the range of vehicle functions that can be uploaded to their cars during ownership, and enjoy a seamless and extremely customer-oriented configuration process with personalised products and services.”

Monitored raw materials production, across-the-board green power for manufacturing, high proportion of natural and recycled materials.
The BMW Group procures the cobalt and lithium required for the high-voltage batteries from controlled sources in Australia and Morocco, before supplying them to the battery cell manufacturers. As in the production of the overall vehicle at BMW Group Plant Dingolfing, the battery cells are manufactured using exclusively green power from certified sources. And since February 2021 the company has bought in aluminium manufactured using electricity from solar energy plants. The importance placed on conserving resources in the production of the BMW iX is highlighted by the high proportion of secondary aluminium and recycled plastic used. The car’s interior features FSC-certified wood, leather tanned with olive leaf extracts and other natural materials. Among the raw materials used for the floor coverings and mats are recovered fishing nets.

“Rather than simply passing responsibility on to the supplier network, we take responsibility together with our direct suppliers,” explains Dr Andreas Wendt, Member of the Board of Management of BMW AG, responsible for Purchasing and Supplier Network. “In so doing, we tap into our many years of experience and create processes for attaining greater transparency and traceability.”

Electric motors: enhancing dynamism, reducing the use of critical materials.
Added to which, the electric motors for the BMW iX are marked out by a design which enables the use of rare earths to be avoided. They work according to the principle of a current-excited synchronous motor. The excitation of the rotor in the BMW iX motors is not induced by fixed permanent magnets, but the feed-in of electric energy. This removes the need for the critical materials used to manufacture magnets, and the BMW Group is therefore not reliant on their availability.

This special design also has a positive effect on the motors’ performance characteristics. The precisely controlled excitation of the rotor using electric power enables peak torque to be on tap in full immediately on pulling away. And – unlike with electric motors of conventional design – that torque is maintained over an extremely broad rev band. The defining trait of the driving experience on board the BMW iX is, then, power development that is not only lightning fast but also unusually consistent, underscoring the car’s brand-typical sporting excellence.

In the BMW iX xDrive50, the drive system – which features one electric motor on the front axle and another at the rear axle – produces total output of over 370 kW/500 hp and enables acceleration of 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in under 5.0 seconds. The BMW iX xDrive40 has an output of more than 240 kW/300 hp, allowing it to sprint from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in a shade over 6.0 seconds.

Efficient drive system and the latest battery technology increase range.
The electric motor, transmission and power electronics of the BMW iX come together as a highly integrated package within a single housing. This compact construction also benefits the drive system’s efficiency. Indeed, further boosted by optimised aerodynamics and intelligent lightweight design, the BMW iX posts standout efficiency for its segment. The result is average electric power consumption in the WLTP cycle of less than 21 kWh per 100 kilometres (62 miles) for the BMW iX xDrive50 and under 20 kWh per 100 kilometres (62 miles) in the case of the BMW iX xDrive40.

Like the electric motors, power electronics and charging technology for the BMW iX, its high-voltage batteries are also the product of fifth-generation BMW eDrive technology. They are positioned low down in the vehicle floor as an integral component of the body. The gravimetric energy density of the lithium-ion batteries has been increased by around 20 per cent again over the previous-generation battery.

The battery cells are manufactured according to precise specifications from the BMW Group and integrated into model-specific high-voltage batteries. The BMW iX xDrive50 is therefore fitted with a battery with a gross energy content of over 100 kWh at BMW Group Plant Dingolfing, while the battery unit for the BMW iX xDrive40 has a gross energy content of more than 70 kWh. This gives the BMW iX xDrive50 a range in excess of 600 kilometres (373 miles) in the WLTP test cycle. And the WLTP-calculated range of the BMW iX xDrive40 is more than 400 kilometres (249 miles). (All figures relating to performance, energy consumption and range are predicted values based on the car’s current stage of development.)

The new charging technology of the BMW iX enables DC (direct current) fast charging with extremely high charging power. The BMW iX xDrive50 can replenish its high-voltage battery at up to 200 kW, while the maximum charging capacity of the BMW iX xDrive40 is 150 kW. All of which means that a ten-minute plug-in time provides sufficient energy to add more than 120 kilometres (75 miles) / 90 kilometres (56 miles) of range. In both model variants, the high-voltage battery’s charge can be increased from 10 to 80 per cent of its full capacity in under 40 minutes.

New technology toolkit underpins further advances towards automated driving.
The new technology toolkit making its debut in the BMW iX also provides the platform for significant progress in the areas of automated driving and digital services. For example, the level of computing power has been developed to process 20 times the data volume of previous models. As a result, around double the amount of data from vehicle sensors can be processed than was previously possible.

“We are setting new industry standards with the technology in the BMW iX. The iX has more computing power for data processing and more powerful sensor technology than the newest vehicles in our current line-up, is 5G-capable, will be given new and improved automated driving and parking functions and uses the high-performing fifth generation of our electric drive system,” says Frank Weber, Member of the Board of Management of BMW AG, Development.

Fresh design for a new driving experience.
The BMW iX is leading the way for a future generation of cars with which the company is redefining sustainability, driving pleasure and what it means to be premium. This trailblazing character is clearly expressed in the car’s design, which has been developed from the inside out. The BMW iX has therefore been created to provide quality of life and wellbeing for drivers and passengers.

The clear and minimalist design of its exterior showcases a new form of mobility geared squarely to the needs of the vehicle’s occupants. Its interior offers those on board innovative options for using the time during a journey – and enjoying relaxation, safety, security, and a new form of luxury in the process.

“The BMW iX shows how we can give new technologies a very modern and emotional design. The car is technologically complex, but it feels very clear and uncomplicated,” says Adrian van Hooydonk, Senior Vice President BMW Group Design. “The BMW iX offers a mobile living space in which people will feel at ease, where the car’s intelligence is only there when you need it.”

Please find here the press kit of the design world premiere of the first ever BMW iX:
https://newsroom.bmwgroup.com/global/en

BMW iX* and BMW i4 production powered by hydroelectricity from Rivers Isar and Lech +++ Electricity for BMW Group production is 100% green +++ Direct supply contracts boost eco-credentials +++

Munich / Dingolfing. The BMW Group will power production of the new electric BMW iX* and BMW i4 at Plants Dingolfing and Munich entirely with regional green hydroelectricity. Contracts have been signed with Stadtwerke München and RWE Supply & Trading for energy to be supplied by hydroelectricity from rivers Isar and Lech. Board Member for Production Milan Nedeljković: “We take a holistic view of sustainability. So rather than just minimising emissions from driving, we are working to significantly reduce the carbon footprint of our production processes.”

The BMW Group already powers its production facilities worldwide entirely with green electricity today. “What’s new is the fact that in the future, we will source our renewable electricity directly from regional providers based close to our plants,” Nedeljković explains. The green electricity needed for BMW iX* production will come from the Isar hydroelectric power stations Uppenborn between Moosburg and Landshut while production of the BMW i4 will be powered by the Lech hydroelectric power stations in Gersthofen and Rain. The energy they supply is also used to manufacture a wide range of components for the two electric models, at BMW Group Plants Landshut, Dingolfing and Berlin.

“Our direct supply contracts add another major boost to the eco-credentials of the green electricity we use in production,” Nedeljković emphasises. But as well as implementing more and more such contracts, the BMW Group is increasing the share of the renewable or carbon-neutral electricity it generates itself. Since 2013, for instance, the four wind turbines at Plant Leipzig have provided all the electricity needed to manufacture the BMW i3*. Another of several examples from the BMW Group production network is the newest plant, in San Luis Potosí, Mexico, where production is largely powered using energy from large solar arrays.

The energy goals the BMW Group has set itself are designed for the longer term. Between 2006 and 2019, emissions from production fell by more than 70 percent per car. Going forward Nedeljković explains: “We want to cut CO₂ emissions by another 80 percent by 2030, to less than 10 percent of what they were in 2006.”

The BMW Group has a strong foundation to build on, having raised the bar repeatedly over the last few decades in terms of sustainability. Continuous improvement remains central to the strategy to cut CO₂ emissions and increase resource efficiency.

As well as sourcing 100 percent green energy, since 2020 the BMW Group has been systematically investing in improving energy efficiency – partly by capitalising on the opportunities of digitalisation. Data analytics has already helped make production more efficient, for instance with predictive machine maintenance and by minimising the number of parts rejected from the bodyshop. As well as drastically cutting actual CO₂ emissions, the BMW Group will offset any remaining emissions (Scope 1 + 2) in full via relevant certificates.

Munich. A year prior to market launch, the series development process for the BMW iX is forging ahead as scheduled. Following the presentation of the final design of the BMW iX at the #NEXTGen 2020 in Munich, prototypes of the new technology flagship are now ready for final winter testing north of Scandinavia. The endurance test, which is being held under extreme weather conditions beyond the Arctic Circle, serves, among other things, the fine tuning of drive and suspension systems. Moreover, the electric motors, four-wheel drive system as well as charging technology, high-voltage batteries and heat management are put to the demanding acid test under sub-zero temperatures.

The tuning and test drives take the prototypes of the BMW iX as far as Europe’s most northerly regions. On deserted roads in Finnish Lapland and to the North Cape on the Norwegian island of Magerøya, both the fifth-generation BMW eDrive technology and the suspension control systems have to prove their functionality and reliability in particularly demanding road and weather conditions. In the process, test engineers evaluate above all the interaction between drive and suspensions systems on road surfaces with a low friction coefficient. Unsecured tracks, icy roads and ice surfaces especially prepared for test-driving on the edge of the Arctic Circle offer the ideal conditions to precisely coordinate the motor control technology, the electric four-wheel drive and suspension control systems right up to the limits of longitudinal and lateral vehicle dynamics.

The BMW iX is the first model based on a new, modular and scalable future BMW Group construction concept. It was conceived from the outset for purely electric mobility, and with the latest development stage of BMW eDrive Technology, intelligent lightweight construction and optimized aerodynamic characteristics it sets new benchmarks in efficiency within the competitive environment of the luxury Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV). Two electric motors together generate a maximum power output of more than 370 kW/500 hp according to current calculations. An integral part of the endurance test at the North Cape is also the final tuning of the intelligent four-wheel drive system BMW xDrive and adaptive adjustment of the axle-specific yaw moment, which in addition to stability and traction also constantly optimizes the BMW iX’s efficiency. The aim of the development is to achieve an extremely low combined power consumption of less than 21 kWh per 100 kilometres in the WLTP test cycle and a range of more than 600 kilometres, likewise according to WLTP, values which are untypical of this class.

During the winter test, the components of BMW eDrive Technology are faced with very special challenges. The high-voltage batteries and the charging technology undergo in extremely low outdoor temperatures field testing for everyday use in the deep of winter. Likewise, displays informing of charge level, range and operating status as well as the heat management system, which constantly ensures the optimum operation temperature of the drive system and high-voltage batteries, demonstrate their resistance to extreme sub-zero temperatures. 

Within the shortest time, the challenging test programme demands more from the BMW iX prototypes than the future production models have to withstand during their entire life cycle. The evaluation of all test results and the resultant fine tuning of all drive and suspension components of the BMW iX will pave the way during the coming months for the launch of a new era of driving pleasure.

Munich. With the BMW iX (combined power consumption: < 21 kWh/100km in the WLTP test cycle*; CO₂ emissions combined: 0 g/km), BMW Group ushers in a new age of mobility. The new fully electric BMW model interprets the electric mobility theme innovatively, making use of totally new technologies. The BMW iX, currently in the final stage of development, is due to come onto the market at the end of 2021. However, winter sports fans will get a taste of the new technology flagship in the coming months when under the motto ‘Born Electric’, the BMW iX takes centre stage in the extensive BMW winter sports commitment for the 2020/21 season.

BMW Group has supported the BMW IBU World Cup Biathlon, the BMW IBSF World Cup Bob & Skeleton and the FIL Luge World Cup as a strong partner for many years. As part of this commitment, BMW Group will now bring the BMW iX and the motto ‘Born Electric’ into the biathlon stadiums and to the ice channels.

Electric mobility reinterpreted.

The BMW iX is the first BMW model to be based on an all-new technology toolkit and was conceived from day one purely for electric mobility. It innovatively unites the areas of sustainability and climate protection, design, versatility and driving pleasure, and leads the way with future technologies that will also be incorporated into other BMW models in the foreseeable future. According to the latest predictions, the maximum output of the BMW iX will exceed 370 kW/500 hp – with absolutely zero emissions and tremendously low power consumption.

The BMW iX on a winter tour through Europe.

As part of BMW’s involvement in winter sports, the BMW iX is going on a huge tour of Europe in the 2020/21 season. The BMW IBU World Cup Biathlon will be heading to Kontiolahti, Hochfilzen, Oberhof and Antholz. The highlight of the season is the world championships in Pokljuka, Slovenia in February, followed by the season finale in Nove Mesto and Oslo. The locations for the BMW IBSF World Cup Bob & Skeleton and the FIL Luge World Cup include Sigulda, Innsbruck, Winterberg, St. Moritz and Königssee near Berchtesgaden. The Eisarena Königssee will also host the FIL Luge World Championships at the end of January. The BMW IBSF Bob and Skeleton World Championships will be held in Altenberg in the Erz Mountains in February.

* Data on driving performance, energy consumption and range are preliminary and based on forecasts.

Munich. In its search for inspiration and a challenging exchange with opinion leaders and visionaries from different areas of society, the BMW Group is entering into a cooperation with one of the most prominent players in the US cinema. Actor Christoph Waltz takes on role as Co-Creator for the premium brand BMW. To kick off the partnership, Waltz played a central role in the design world premiere of the BMW iX. The future model of the BMW Group celebrated its premiere at #NEXTGen 2020.

With this year's #NEXTGen, the multi-day, completely digitally produced event streamed at www.bmw.com/NEXTGen, the BMW Group is not only providing an outlook on future individual mobility, but also exciting insights into how the models and technologies are developed with which the company is significantly driving and shaping the current transformation of the automotive industry. In order to gain a deeper understanding of tomorrow's needs, wishes and trends, the BMW Group cooperates with pioneers and lateral thinkers from such diverse fields as computer technology and e-gaming, fashion and sport, ecology and social science as well as music, film and other cultural disciplines.

The dialogue with Christoph Waltz, who was awarded an Oscar each for his acting achievements in the films "Inglorious Bastards" (2009) and "Django Unchained" (2012), was initiated by Oliver Zipse, Chairman of the Board of Management of BMW AG. He invited the actor to enter into critical dialogue with designers, technology developers and strategy experts from the BMW Group. The focus was on the design of the BMW iX, the current fields of innovation of the BMW Group and the general conditions under which individual mobility will continue to develop in the future.

"The discussions we had with Christoph Waltz in the run-up to #NEXTGen 2020 about future technologies, social change and the future significance of driving pleasure were very inspiring. He gave us new perspectives with his openness, pragmatism and a certain degree of impatience. I am delighted to have won a Co-Creator in Christoph Waltz, who will challenge us again and again with his thoughts and ideas," says Oliver Zipse.

When it comes to cars, Christoph Waltz appreciates premium quality, technological precision and attention to detail. He is particularly concerned with the sustainable character of high-quality and therefore durable products. But the actor is also intensively interested in the ecological aspect of sustainable drive technology with regard to protecting the climate and conserving resources. Accordingly, he follows the progress in the field of electric mobility with great interest.

Christoph Waltz observes the latest developments in the technology fields of electric mobility, networking and automated driving just as closely as the associated international competition. "I am delighted about every new technological impulse that comes not from Silicon Valley but from Europe, and I would like to see more of it", says Christoph Waltz. "What I was able to learn at BMW in this area impressed me very much. BMW is a very steeped-in-tradition, but at the same time extremely future-oriented company."

https://www.bmw.com/en/events/nextgen/christoph-waltz.html

Conceived from the outset for purely electric mobility, the iX sees BMW redefining the successful Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV) concept. With its completely newly developed, precise and minimalist design, the BMW iX is the first representative of a trailblazing generation of cars poised to redefine the driving experience, the feeling of space inside and the relationship between vehicles and those on board.

The BMW iX harnesses the latest innovations in the fields of electrification, automated driving and connectivity to deliver a mobility experience which puts people more than ever at its heart. To this end, its design has been developed from the inside out. The BMW iX has been created to provide quality of life and wellbeing for drivers and passengers. The clear and minimalist design of its exterior showcases a new form of mobility geared squarely to the needs of the vehicle’s occupants. Its interior offers those on board innovative options for using the time during a journey – and enjoying relaxation, safety, security, and a new form of luxury in the process.

The BMW Group’s new technology flagship – courtesy of BMW i, the “workshop for the future”.
The design and technology of the BMW iX form an overall package that lays the foundations for what is in many respects a new kind of driving experience. In so doing, it comprehensively embodies the character of the BMW i brand, whose mission is to transform personal mobility. BMW i plays a central role at the BMW Group as a “workshop for the future” and driver of innovation across the company.

“The BMW Group is constantly striving to re-invent itself. That is a central element of our corporate strategy,” says Oliver Zipse, Chairman of the Board of Management of BMW AG. “The BMW iX expresses this approach in an extremely concentrated form.”

The BMW iX will go into production at BMW Plant Dingolfing from the second half of 2021 as the BMW Group’s new technology flagship. It brings together the company’s latest developments in the strategic innovation fields of Design, Automated Driving, Connectivity, Electrification and Services. Added to which, the vehicle concept and design of the BMW iX are rooted in an all-embracing approach to sustainability. This is reflected in areas of the car such as its optimised aerodynamics, intelligent lightweight design and extensive use of natural and recycled materials, which help to create a cutting-edge sense of luxury and comprehensive feeling of wellbeing on board.

Fifth-generation BMW eDrive technology delivers outstanding efficiency and long range.
The fifth generation of BMW eDrive technology – which encompasses the two electric motors, the power electronics, the charging technology and the high-voltage battery – guarantees exceptional efficiency. The power unit developed by the BMW Group has been manufactured sustainably without the use of critical raw materials known as rare earths and will, by the most recent calculations, develop maximum output of more than 370 kW/500 hp. That will be enough to power the BMW iX from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in under 5.0 seconds.

At the same time, the vehicle’s clear aim is to post an exceptionally low combined electric power consumption figure for its segment of less than 21 kWh per 100 kilometres (62 miles) in the WLTP test cycle. A gross energy content of more than 100 kWh should enable the latest-generation high-voltage battery to record a range of over 600 kilometres in the WLTP cycle. That equates to more than 300 miles according to the EPA’s FTP-75 test procedure. (All figures relating to performance, energy consumption and range are predicted values based on the car’s current stage of development.)

DC fast charging: over 120 kilometres (75 miles) of extra range in ten minutes.
The new charging technology of the BMW iX enables DC fast charging at up to 200 kW. In this way, the battery can be charged from 10 to 80 per cent of its full capacity in under 40 minutes. Added to which, within ten minutes enough energy can be fed into the battery to increase the car’s range by more than 120 kilometres (75 miles). It takes less than eleven hours to charge the high-voltage battery from 0 to 100 per cent at 11 kW from a Wallbox.

The batteries fitted in the BMW iX are designed as part of a long-term resource cycle and enable an exceptionally high recycling rate. The power used to produce the battery cells and the high-voltage battery as a whole come exclusively from renewable sources.

New technology toolkit underpins further advances towards automated driving.
The new technology toolkit making its debut in the BMW iX also provides the platform for significant progress in the areas of automated driving and digital services. For example, the level of computing power has been developed to process 20 times the data volume of previous models. As a result, around double the amount of data from vehicle sensors can be processed than was previously possible.

“We are setting new industry standards with the technology in the BMW iX. The iX has more computing power for data processing and more powerful sensor technology than the newest vehicles in our current line-up, is 5G-capable, will be given new and improved automated driving and parking functions and uses the high-performing fifth generation of our electric drive system,” says Frank Weber, Member of the Board of Management of BMW AG, Development.

Fresh design for a new driving experience.
The BMW iX is leading the way for a future generation of cars with which the company is redefining sustainability, driving pleasure and what it means to be premium. This trailblazing character is clearly expressed in the car’s design. It provides the basis for a new kind of driving experience in which familiarity, relaxation and self-determination are the dominant themes.

The exterior of the BMW iX represents a distinctive re-imagining of the powerful proportions of a large BMW SAV. The BMW iX is comparable with the BMW X5 in length and width, and is almost the same height as the BMW X6 on account of its flowing roofline. The size of its wheels, meanwhile, brings to mind the BMW X7.

The minimalist use of character lines and generously shaped surfaces conjure an aura of supreme assurance. The crisp lines, clear structure and almost rectangular contours around the wheel arches contribute to an imposing body design. And the reduced design language steers the eye onto precisely constructed details which accentuate the sophisticated character, brand identity and optimised aerodynamics of the BMW iX.

Front end: expressive, vertical kidney grille serves as an intelligence panel.
At the centre of the front end stands the prominent, vertically emphasised kidney grille. Since the electric drive system of the BMW iX requires only a small amount of cooling air, the kidney grille is completely blanked off. Its role has duly turned digital and here it functions as an intelligence panel. Camera technology, radar functions and other sensors are integrated seamlessly into the grille behind a transparent surface.

Developed and produced at the BMW Group’s LuTZ lightweight design and technology centre in Landshut, the kidney grille for the BMW iX presents a technologically lavish advertisement for intelligent mobility. The grille has reinvented itself as an innovative and multifunctional high-tech interface for the advanced driver assistance systems with which the BMW iX paves the way for automated driving.

Clearly designed surfaces, discreetly integrated technology.
The exterior design highlights of the BMW iX also include the slimmest headlight units ever to feature on a series-produced model from BMW, the flush-fitted door openers (operated at the press of a button), the frameless side windows, the tailgate – which has no separation joints and extends across the whole of the rear – and the likewise extremely slim rear lights.

The BMW kidney grille is not the only example of how the principle of shy tech has been integrated into the design of the BMW iX: an array of other cameras and sensors are likewise positioned discreetly, the door openers are flush, the filler neck for the windscreen washer fluid is concealed under the BMW logo on the bonnet and the rear-view camera has been integrated into the BMW logo on the tailgate. The technology stays in the background and only becomes apparent as and when the relevant functions are called into action.

“The BMW iX shows how we can give new technologies a very modern and emotionally engaging design. The car is technologically highly complex, but it feels very clear and uncomplicated,” says Adrian van Hooydonk, Senior Vice President BMW Group Design. “The BMW iX offers a mobile living space in which people will feel at ease and the car’s intelligence is always available without becoming obtrusive.”

Interior design: people at centre stage.
A high level of spaciousness, a mixture of high-quality materials, newly developed seats with integral head restraints and an exceptionally large panoramic glass roof immerse all five seats of the BMW iX cabin in a luxurious, lounge-like ambience. The all-new architecture of the BMW iX cabin underpins a perfectly clear and straightforward functionality that revolves entirely around the needs and emotions of the driver and their fellow occupants. The drive concept means there is no centre tunnel, adding to the open, airy feel while also allowing extra legroom in the front and rear, sufficient space for storage facilities, and a centre console crafted to look like a high-quality piece of furniture. The minimalistic design language and clearly structured surfaces shine an even brighter spotlight on the feeling of spaciousness inside the car.

The displays and controls are all stripped down to the essentials, further reinforcing the impression of an uncluttered cabin offering a place of relaxation. The technology of the BMW iX is used intelligently and only becomes visible when it is needed. This makes it intuitive to use rather than seeming overly complex. The interior design conveys a sense of safety and familiarity and engenders a new type of bond between occupants and vehicle. The shy tech approach for the interior can be seen in a number of features, including speakers integrated out of sight, intricately styled air vents, heated surfaces and the discreet recessing of the BMW Head-Up Display’s projector into the instrument panel so it is almost invisible. The hexagonally shaped steering wheel, a rocker switch for gear selection and the BMW Curved Display – which forms part of the next-generation BMW Operating System – clearly advertise the futuristic form of driving pleasure on offer.

Intelligent lightweight design and optimised aerodynamics increase range.
The energy and range of the BMW iX benefit from innovative solutions in the areas of lightweight design and aerodynamics. Its body structure, featuring an aluminium spaceframe and innovative Carbon Cage, can claim extremely high torsional stiffness, which in turn enhances agility and maximises occupant protection, while minimising weight. The intelligent material mix, with a variety of materials employed exactly where their specific properties can be utilised to best effect, is unique in this segment. Together with the superb aerodynamics, the intelligent material mix helps to endow the iX with remarkably composed, relaxed driving characteristics combined with instant, precise response to every movement of the accelerator and turn of the steering wheel.

Fully capitalising on the benefits provided by the all-electric drive system and meticulously implementing proven measures from the past in the front end of the car, the underbody section, the wheels and the rear end gives the BMW iX optimised aerodynamics which have a positive effect on both the performance and range of the purely electrically powered SAV. The BMW iX boasts outstanding aerodynamics for its class, with a drag coefficient (C_d) of just 0.25.

Munich. BMW i is preparing to launch the next generation of solely electrically powered models. Three of the brand’s electric models are currently going through a key phase of their series development process at the BMW Group’s winter test centre in Arjeplog, Sweden. Together with the BMW iX3 already due to go on sale next year, the BMW i4 and the BMW iNEXT, being brought to market in 2021, are also completing an intensive test programme. Within the framework of comprehensive vehicle testing, their drive and suspension components are being put to the test under extreme weather and road conditions. The testing area situated at the edge of the Arctic Circle provides the ideal requirements for this purpose. On the icy surfaces of frozen lakes, on snow and in the bitter cold, the electric motors, the high-voltage batteries and the power electronics of BMW eDrive technology as well as the suspension control systems are demonstrating their high level of performance and reliability.

The latest chapter of the BMW Group electrification strategy will be heralded by a Sports Activity Vehicle. Starting next year, the BMW iX3 will already feature the fifth generation of BMW eDrive technology for the first time. An exceptionally powerful electric motor and a high-voltage storage unit featuring state-of-the-art battery cell technology facilitate purely electric driving pleasure in a new dimension. With a range of over 400 kilometres* and the possibility to use DC charging stations with a capacity of 150 kW to charge its battery, the first all-electric SAV is ideally suitable for day-to-day use and long-distance travel. The BMW iX3 will be the first model produced for the entire global market by the BMW Brilliance Automotive Joint Venture at the Chinese production location in Shenyang.

The BMW i4 delivers locally emission-free driving pleasure combined with outstanding sportiness. The four-door coupe positioned in the premium midrange segment combines a dynamic design with inspiring performance and a high level of ride comfort. Fifth-generation BMW eDrive technology featured by the BMW i4 facilitates a range of over 600 kilometres*. Moreover, the electric motor’s spontaneous power development can be utilised above all to achieve a dynamic driving experience. The BMW i4 sprints from a standstill to 100 km/h in a mere 4 seconds and reaches a top speed of over 200 km/h. The BMW i4 will be produced at the BMW Munich plant starting 2021.

With the proportions and dimensions of a luxury Sports Activity Vehicle, a fifth-generation electric drive unit and systems for highly automated driving, the BMW iNEXT embodies the future of driving pleasure in a particularly comprehensive way. As the BMW Group’s future modular construction system, it combines the latest innovations in the areas of design, automated driving, connectivity, electrification and services (D+ACES) defined by the NUMBER ONE > NEXT corporate strategy. BMW eDrive ensures a range exceeding 600 kilometres*. Furthermore, the car is equipped with the latest connectivity features and designed for Level 3 automated driving. The BMW Group’s new technology flagship will be produced at the BMW Dingolfing plant as from 2021.