BMW has showcased the capabilities of its upcoming iX3 Neue Klasse electric SUV by putting it through a demanding long-distance test in China. According to the company, the SUV managed to cover close to 800 km on a single charge, highlighting the advancements made in BMW's next-generation EV technology.

The test was conducted using the long-wheelbase version of the iX3, which will be the first production model based on BMW's all-new Neue Klasse platform. The electric SUV is also expected to reach India in the coming years.

Tested on a Challenging Route

Rather than going for a usual controlled test on track, BMW chose a demanding real-world route around Qinghai Lake in China. The journey started from Xining, a city located around 2,200 metres above sea level, before climbing to nearly 4,000 metres and returning to the starting point.

BMW's New iX3 EV Delivers Nearly 800 km Range in Real-World Test
BMW's New iX3 EV Delivers Nearly 800 km Range in Real-World Test

The route included significant elevation changes, varied road surfaces and different driving conditions, making it a tough test for the vehicle's battery and energy management systems.

Range

BMW says the iX3 Long Wheelbase completed the approximately 800 km journey with around 2% battery charge still remaining.

Based on the results, the brand believes the SUV could potentially achieve around 835-840 km of driving range under similar conditions. Throughout the drive, the vehicle recorded an average energy consumption of just 12.6 kWh per 100 km, which is impressive for an SUV of this size.

A major reason behind the SUV's long range is BMW's sixth-generation battery technology. The iX3 Neue Klasse uses a 108.7 kWh usable battery pack along with newly developed cylindrical battery cells. These cells are designed to offer higher energy density, allowing the vehicle to store more energy without significantly increasing weight or size.

First Neue Klasse Model

BMW's New iX3 EV Delivers Nearly 800 km Range in Real-World Test
BMW's New iX3 EV Delivers Nearly 800 km Range in Real-World Test

The iX3 Long Wheelbase will be the first production vehicle based on BMW's Neue Klasse architecture. This new platform will form the foundation for several future electric BMW models and is expected to bring improvements in efficiency, performance and charging capabilities. Production of the SUV will take place at BMW Brilliance Automotive's facility in Shenyang, China.

Will It Be Coming To India?

However, BMW remains tight-lipped about the India launch timeline; reports suggest the iX3 Neue Klasse could arrive in the country by late 2026 or early 2027. If launched, it will mark the beginning of BMW's next-generation EV lineup in India.