The first official images of BMW’s conceptual
electric crossover, the iNEXT, have surfaced online. Set to preview the 2021
production model, the iNEXT is a futuristic crossover that is infused with BMW
i DNA. Originally spotted on Bimmerpost, the pictures show the concept has a
massive twin kidney grille with a fake mesh insert. The grille also features a
blue chrome surround which hints at the model’s eco-friendly powertrain.
The grille sits in between slender headlights and
recessed sections of the front fascia which channel air into slender intakes.
Further below, we can see gloss black accents which mimic plastic body
cladding. Moving further back, we can see BMW has embraced the side camera
mirror trend that is being pioneered by Audi and Lexus. Elsewhere, there are
massive wheels and a distinctive greenhouse with ‘pinched’ accents on the
B-pillar. The concept also features
pronounced rear wheel arches and a relatively flat roof which meets a
tailgate-mounted spoiler.
While the rest of the crossover has a bold design,
the rear end is slightly generic. However, the model has a rounded tailgate
with slender brakes lights. Further below, we can see a heavily stylized bumper
with blue accents.
The cabin takes a different approach as it features
a minimalist design which is largely devoid of controls and trim. Instead,
drivers sit behind a rectangular-shaped steering wheel and find themselves
looking at a ‘floating’ digital instrument cluster. A widescreen infotainment
system is located nearby and it appears to have a metallic frame.
Additional details are hard to make out, but the
iNEXT has a panoramic glass roof and a unique center console that looks like it
has a wood and marble top. The dashboard also appears to be covered in wood
while there are metallic accents on the door pulls.
BMW has been tight-lipped about specifications, but
the company’s e-mobility roadmap confirmed the production iNEXT will be a “Gen
5” electric vehicle. The automaker has already confirmed these modes will have
a modular battery pack with a capacity ranging from 60 kWh to 120 kWh. This
will enable future electric vehicles to have a range of up to 700
km on a single charge.
Besides the high-tech powertrain, the iNEXT is
slated to have an advanced semi-autonomous driving system. The model is
expected to have Level 4 system which could enable the vehicle to drive itself
in a number of different situations.
