Audi and Mercedes are preparing to introduce
electric crossovers next month and they’ll eventually be joined by the BMW iX3. Previewed by a concept at Auto
China, the iX3 will be launched in 2020 and become the brand’s first electric crossover.
While previous prototypes were virtually indistinguishable from the standard
model, the latest version features production bodywork that is hidden beneath
blue camouflage designating its eco-friendly status.
The changes are minor and the model
is still instantly recognizable as an X3. However, the crossover has been
equipped with a new front fascia which features a revised grille. It’s too
early to tell what it will look like, but hopefully the company decided against
using the bow-tie design that was featured on the concept.
Further below, we can see a wider lower intake which
appears to remain pretty faithful to the concept. We can also see a glimpse of
the side air intakes, but it’s unclear if they will be vertical units. The rest of the design largely
carries over, but the iX3 has been equipped with a modified rear bumper. This
is the result of the crossover not needing an exhaust system due to its
electric powertrain.
Spy photographers couldn’t get close enough to snap
the interior, but changes to the cabin will likely be minimal. Nothing is
official,but we can expect a revised instrument cluster and EV-specific
infotainment displays.
The production model is expected
to have a 70+ kWh lithium-ion battery pack and an electric motor that develops
more than 266 hp. This should enable the crossover to travel
more than 400 km on a single charge. When the battery is depleted,
it can be topped off in 30 minutes using a 150 kW charger.
