BMW Neue Klasse iX3 sets 1,030.2-km range record ahead of China launch

BMW’s next electric SUV for China completed a demanding real-world efficiency test ahead its Chengdu Auto Show debut on August 21, highlighting new battery technology, an 800V platform and locally tailored long-wheelbase design 

BMW’s Neue Klasse iX3 achieved a 1,030.2-km no-charge run, arriving with 5% battery left. A BMW engineer drove an iX3 50L xDrive from the automaker’s production base in Shenyang to its R&D center in Beijing. He completed a 1,030.2-km drive without recharging and arrived at the destination with 5% battery remaining. BMW said the result set a new range record for its battery-electric models. Previously, the Neue Klasse iX3 completed an 805-km road test around Qinghai Lake under real-world driving conditions. 

The 1,030.2-km figure was achieved in an internal extreme-range road test and should not be interpreted as the range drivers can expect in everyday use. The BMW iX3 50L has an official CLTC range of 919 km. Exceeding that figure in the latest test was not simply a result of a larger battery. Instead, it is a comprehensive testament to BMW’s next-generation battery, electric-drive and energy-management systems. 

The new model uses BMW’s sixth-generation high-voltage battery system on an 800V architecture and, for the first time in a BMW model mass-produced for China, adopts large cylindrical cells. The battery uses a module-free cell-to-pack design, integrating cells directly into the battery-pack housing to reduce structural redundancy and improve space utilization. The cells use a high-nickel Series 9 chemistry, with energy density about 20% higher than the prismatic cells used in the previous-generation BMW eDrive system. 

The technology package represents an important step in BMW’s response to changes in China’s NEV market. As the first model from BMW’s New Class platform introduced for the Chinese market, the Neue Klasse iX3 will also be an important test of the competitiveness of BMW’s upcoming battery-electric lineup. 

The new BMW iX3 will be locally assembled by the BMW-Brilliance joint venture in Northern China with a 103-mm stretched body and components from local suppliers. The wheelbase of the Chinese variant of the iX3 reaches 3,005 mm. It is 108 mm more than the global version offers. The exact dimensions of the long-wheelbase iX3 are 4885/1895/1635 mm. It is 103 mm longer than the global version. Despite growing by 103 mm, the China-made iX3 has a curb weight of 2,371 kg. It is 11 kg more than the global version. The gross weight is 2,800 kg (the global iX3 has a gross weight of 2,825 kg). 

In terms of design, the iX3 Long-Wheelbase adopts the New Generation design language. The front fascia features a 3D illuminated grille and integrated light groups that create a digital “Angel Eye” effect. The side profile is specifically tailored for Chinese consumers, replacing the classic Hofmeister kink with a China-exclusive “Mirror-Light Corner.” The vehicle is equipped with semi-hidden electric door handles featuring dual-mode (electric and physical) opening and a triple-safety redundancy mechanism. The rear is characterised by 3D “Feather” taillights and an optimised rear spoiler. Customers can choose from nine body colours, including Mineral White, Polar Day Grey, and Flame Red. 

Inside, the cabin has four colour schemes available. The core upgrade is the BMW Panoramic iDrive intelligent system, which features a Panoramic Vision Bridge and a 3D Head-Up Display. Utilising ultra-short-throw projection technology, it projects a 4K high-definition panoramic image of nearly 40 inches onto the windshield. The centre console houses a 17.9-inch high-definition touchscreen tilted 17.5 degrees toward the driver for better ergonomics. 

The infotainment system is integrated into the Chinese ecosystem, supporting Huawei HiCar and Apple CarPlay, and is powered by Alibaba’s AI large language model and DeepSeek’s reasoning capabilities for enhanced voice control and interaction. The smart driving system is co-developed by BMW and Momenta. This end-to-end AI system utilises localised large models to cover all scenarios, including urban roads and highways, providing adaptive cruise control and hazard avoidance tailored to complex Chinese road conditions. 

The front passenger seat now includes an electrically adjustable leg rest. The rear seats have been thickened and lengthened for better ergonomic support, complemented by a panoramic integrated sun-protection roof. For cargo, the combination of the front and rear trunks provides a maximum expandable volume of 1,900 L. 

The BMW Neue Klasse iX3 will open for reservations at the Chengdu Auto Show on Aug. 21. During the Chengdu Auto Show, BMW is expected to disclose the iX3’s detailed specifications, reservation terms and technologies developed specifically for the Chinese market. Meanwhile, the 2027 BMW X3 will make its China debut at the show and is scheduled to begin deliveries in September.