BMW is set to launch a new long-wheelbase version of its iX3 SUV at the Beijing motor show.
The car is going to be sold in China only, and BMW says that it shows how flexible its freshly developed Neue Klasse platforms are. The German carmaker has just revealed a new entry version of the car that's going on sale in the UK with a smaller battery and lower price.
The wheelbase is extended by 107mm over the standard version of the iX3, with suspension and chassis set up specifically for the Chinese market. Long wheelbase versions of cars are highly desirable in China, which is why many popular cars end up with stretched derivatives on sale in the market.
BMW says that it has tailored the ‘digital experience’ for the local market too, with specifically developed software using local resources. It has upgraded its satnav experience with improved visualisation of complex road junctions, improved voice controlled virtual assistance and digital connectivity that’s been developed by Huawei, like a phone key and app that offers a smooth integration of the car and home systems.
The iX3 gets a 560-mile range on the China-specific CLTC test procedure (the Chinese test is a bit more optimistic than the WLTP, but the iX3 still ranks up there as one of the longest range EVs on sale) from the same 108.7kWh usable battery capacity.
It also has 400kW charging for 10 to 80% charge in 21 minutes, but that might pale in comparison to some of the speeds that locally developed Chinese cars can manage. Both BYD (with its second generation Blade tech) and Geely (thanks to its Energee Golden brick) have developed systems that charge at eye watering speeds.
The long-wheelbase iX3 is set to go on sale in China in the second half of the year – if you’re a captain of industry looking for a plush ride in Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia or India then you’re luck, because the LWB iX3 is going on sale there too. UK executives will have to wait for the updated version of the i7 limousine, which is also being revealed at the Beijing motor show.
