BMW Malaysia teases iX electric SUV, launch expected this year

KUALA LUMPUR: The BMW iX electric SUV was unveiled globally in November 2020 and is expected to go on sale in the international market later this year as a 2022 model year. Well, here comes an exciting news for Malaysian auto enthusiasts, the German automaker has started teasing the EV on its official local website and social handles with a link for customers to register their interest. 

The BMW iX underpins the automaker's latest modular toolkit platform and features the brand's new design theme. It will be manufactured with the help of an amazing set of components, including high-strength steels, carbon fibre, aluminum, and thermoplastic.

About the drivetrain, BMW says that the upcoming iX SUV will have the brand’s latest fifth-generation eDrive powertrain, which houses two electric motors churning out a maximum output of 500 hp. The automaker also claims that the EV will go zero-to-100 kmph in less than 5.0 seconds. The cruising range of the iX is rated at 483 km according to the US Environmental Protection Agency standards.

Speaking about the battery size, BMW has not yet revealed the actual battery size of the model but mentioned that it touts 200-kW DC fast charging that provides it 121 km of range with 10 minutes of charging. Moreover, the battery pack is said to get charged up to 80% in less than 40 minutes, however, if you charge from an 11-kW Level 2 charging station, it will take 11 hours for full charging.

In terms of design, the BMW iX front fascia sports a distinctive take on the brand’s conventional grille pattern, which was disliked by some car enthusiasts at the time of reveal. Looking inside, here the EV gets a more relaxed and lounge-like appearance. There is a 14.9-inch infotainment system teamed up with a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster. As for safety, no official statements are there, however, the iNext Concept vehicle gave a hint about the inclusion of Level 3 autonomous driving capabilities.

So when will the BMW iX come to Malaysia? The answer is not so soon, we can only expect the launch onto our shores when it becomes available globally,

Also read: BMW unveils next-gen user experience with iDrive 8