A camouflaged prototype of the 2021 BMW iNext
electric SUV was spotted on the back of a transporter truck, giving Carscoops spies
the perfect opportunity for some detailed shots inside and out. BMW has already teased elements
of its future technology flagship model, including a definitely-not-round
steering wheel and a massive curved display mounted on the dash.
This new set of spyshots reveal more of the
dashboard’s design but it still uses the smaller digital instrument cluster from
current BMW models and not the final piece. Despite the covers, you can already
tell that BMW is gunning towards a more minimal vibe, similar to that found
inside the i3.
The production version of the BMW iNext is a battery-electric crossover with a
footprint similar in size with the X5. Having an actual X5 parked right above
the camouflaged test car is obviously very helpful when trying to figure out
the iNext’s size.
he 2021 iNext will make use of BMW’s latest flexible
architecture, which can host both ICE and EV models. In this application, the
electric SUV will feature a rear-mounted electric motor -on base models at
least- and the battery pack under the floor of the cabin.
BMW is pretty tight when it comes to technical
details but it has promised a driving range of more than 600 km on a
full charge, as well as Level 3 automated driving tech. The production version
of the iNext will also pack new cutting-edge connectivity features to go with its
impressive curved digital display.
As an electric SUV of this size -and BMW’s
technology flagship-, it’s safe to expect excellent straight-line performance.
The iNext concept promised a 0-100 km/h in around 4 seconds. BMW also
said that once launched, the iNext will serve as the company’s development mule
for Level 4 and Level 5 automated-driving technologies.
