BMW ix60 EV to join range mid 2022

BMW’S iX M60 IS THE THIRD VARIANT in the iX range, and the latest fully electric model from BMW’s M performance division, following the i4 M50 that launched in March.

Launches of the iX M60 and i4 M50 models are significant developments in a year when BMW M celebrates its 50th anniversary.

The output figures and performance capability of the iX M60 are befitting of BMW M, with up to 455kW and 1100Nm of torque.

The all-new model accelerates from zero to 100km/h in just 3.8-seconds and has a top speed of 250km/h.

Its towering straight-line ability is complemented by multiple elements to enhance dynamic potential and body control, including electric all-wheel-drive, a highly responsive actuator-based wheel slip limitation and suspension technology integrating BMW M specifically tuned dual-axle air suspension with automatic level control.

The iX M60 will additionally offer 566 kilometres of driving range according to the WLTP test cycle. 

BMW have their own term for an SUV

Ideal platform for honed sports activity vehicle performance  

The BMW iX provides an optimum foundation for an all-electric sports activity vehicle (SAV) featuring high-performance characteristics.

Both the body structure and suspension set-up are geared towards combining superior ride comfort with sporty handling characteristics.

The aluminium spaceframe concept and the carbon cage with carbon fibre reinforced plastic (CFRP) in the roof, side and rear sections represent an intelligent mix of materials that combine increased rigidity with optimised weight.

The use of CFRP (carbon fibre) to reduce weight has a long tradition at BMW M GmbH. The high-tech material achieved notable results in combining engine performance and low weight in the legendary BMW M3 CSL, which launched in 2003.

Use of the material in the CSL meant BMW M GmbH was the first to adopt CFRP in large-scale automotive production. Today, a carbon fibre roof and other components made from CFRP are integral to the lightweight construction principle of numerous BMW M vehicles.

The BMW iX M60’s performance, efficiency and range also benefit from its optimised aerodynamic properties.

The high-voltage battery is located deep down in the underbody, lowering the vehicle’s centre of gravity to deliver agile handling and balanced axle load distribution.

This means the performance characteristics of the BMW iX M60 are not only characterised by spontaneous acceleration but also by outstanding cornering dynamics and handling that can be precisely controlled at all times.

The perfectly balanced driving characteristics give the BMW iX M60 a confident and light-footed feel at all speeds. It can also be driven at the physical limits and provide the driver clear feedback in typical BMW M style.

The grille is, of course, purely decorative

 First BMW M offering based on the new future modular system

The BMW iX M60 combines its typical M performance characteristics with the exceptionally advanced technology of the BMW Group’s new future modular system in the areas of driver assistance, operation, connectivity and digital services.

This creates an experience of premium mobility unique in the competitive environment. The completely redeveloped interior architecture also contributes to this approach, creating a generous feeling of space.

As with the two other iX model variants, the BMW iX M60 features the most extensive range of standard equipment ever offered by BMW in the field of driving technology systems as well as numerous innovations.

A new generation of sensors, a new software stack and a powerful computing platform also provide considerable potential for consistently advancing automated driving and parking functions.

The latest generation iDrive display and control system expands the interaction between driver and vehicle, allowing natural dialogue.

It is based on the new BMW Operating System 8 and has been designed with a clear focus on the touch function of the new BMW Curved Display and voice communication with the extensively enhanced BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant.

Remote Software Upgrades will offer the possibility to install new and improved vehicle functions over-the-air via the BMW Australia ConnectedDrive store.

Navigation with the cloud-based BMW Maps system and Augmented Reality Video on the Control Display ensure fast and precise route planning as well as traffic guidance. The BMW iX is also a pioneer in data transmission, adopting 5G capable connectivity.

Batteries always steal a little space, but plenty to spare

Latest battery cell technology and innovative charging system

The BMW iX M60 features a high-voltage 112kWh EV battery with high energy density and outstanding qualities when it comes to performance, charging and discharging behaviour, durability and safety.

The Combined Charging Unit (CCU) of the BMW iX M60 was designed for particularly flexible charging.

It can charge alternating current (AC) with a power of up to 11kW, while direct current (DC) can be charged at a rate of up to 200kW.

For example, the battery charge level in the BMW iX M60 can be raised from 10 to 80 percent in around 35 minutes. In addition, range can be increased by up to 150 kilometres in just 10 minutes at a DC fast-charging station starting with a battery charge level of 10 percent.

Clear design language, innovative feeling of space and comprehensive standard equipment 

The iX M60’s powerful proportions, reduced surface design and precise details characterise the clear exterior look and give the vehicle a distinctive presence.

Its high-performance character is underlined by aesthetic touches including brake callipers of the sports brake system painted in dark blue with M logo and BMW Individual Titanium Bronze Exterior Line and M logos in the new High Gloss Black/Titanium Bronze finish on the front side panels and the rear of the vehicle.

New 22-inch aerodynamic alloy wheels with an exclusive Titanium Bronze design will also be available for the iX M60.

The spacious, high-quality and innovatively designed interior helps the driver concentrate while also providing a high level of travel comfort and feel of progressive luxury.

Multifunction seats with integrated headrests, the large BMW Curved Display, hexagonal steering wheel and anthracite-coloured roof liner are all designed to further enhance driving pleasure.

Absence of the centre tunnel creates additional legroom as well as space for storage and a centre console designed in the style of a high-quality piece of furniture.

The no-cost optional Suite interior includes olive leaf extract tanned natural leather seats, instrument panel, centre console and door trim surfaces, as well as Gold Bronze surfaces and controls.

An M logo is shown in the left-hand area of the information display regardless of the selected display layout and the activated My Mode.

The exclusive character of the BMW iX M60 is further emphasised by its exceptionally comprehensive level of standard equipment. Among other elements, it includes BMW Live Cockpit Professional and BMW Natural Interaction, which allows functions to be operated using speech and gestures.

In addition, it will be offered as standard with Bowers & Wilkins Diamond Surround Sound System, BMW Laserlight, Interior Applications Clear&Bold, Parking Assistant Professional, Interior Camera, Comfort Access and the Heat Comfort Package as an option.

Holistic sustainability concept

Responsibly sourced resources throughout the entire value chain and the maximum reduction of the CO2 footprint throughout the product life cycle are clear reminders of BMW i’s understanding of forward-looking premium mobility.

This holistic approach is consistently implemented in vehicle development, throughout the supply chain and in the production of the BMW iX M60. The BMW i brand stands for both ecological and social sustainability.

The supply of cobalt and lithium required for the high-voltage batteries is procured by the BMW Group from controlled sources in Australia and Morocco and delivered to the battery cell manufacturers. The design principle of the electric motors makes it possible to dispense with the use of rare earth metals in the rotors of the drives. In addition, the company acquires aluminium produced using electricity from solar energy plants.

One hundred percent green electricity is used for manufacturing the vehicles as well as for manufacturing battery cells. A high proportion of secondary aluminium and recycled plastic also contributes to the resource-efficient production of the BMW iX M60.

Interior aspects include FSC-certified wood and other natural materials, while recycled fishing nets serve as raw material for the floor coverings and floor mats. 

Lots of exterior and interior choices

Australian pricing and specification 

The BMW iX M60 is priced at $222,900 (plus on road costs) and will arrive in Australia carrying a high level of specification and array of luxury and convenience features.

Highlights are as follows:

  • 22-inch Aero Alloy Wheels
  • Comfort Access
  • Seat Heating, front
  • Multifunctional Seats, front
  • BMW IconicSounds Electric
  • Driving Assistant Professional
  • Parking Assistant Professional
  • Bowers and Wilkins Diamond Surround Sound System
  • BMW Natural Interaction
  • BMW Live Cockpit with Operating System 8.0
  • Interior Design Suite with Olive Tanned Leather
  • Panorama Glass Roof Sky Lounge
  • Integral Active Steering
  • Adaptive 2-Axle Air Suspension
  • Soft-Close Doors
  • BMW Laserlight
  • Sport Tyres
  • Tyre Pressure Monitor
  • M Sport Brakes in Dark Blue Metallic
  • Interior Applications Clear&Bold
  • Interior Camera
  • Five-year unlimited subscription to Chargefox network 

Paint options 

Eight paint finishes are available for the BMW iX M60, including five metallic options and two BMW Individual metallic options.

  • Alpine White (non-metallic)
  • Black Sapphire
  • Sophisto Grey
  • Phytonic Blue
  • Blue Ridge Mountain
  • Oxide Grey

BMW Individual metallic ($2600 each)

  • Storm Bay
  • Aventurine Red 

Upholstery options

All three upholstery offerings are available at no cost to the customer.

Interior Design Loft – Stone Grey

  • Seat covers in cloth/microfibre combination
  • Instrument panel in microfibre
  • Centre console and centre armrest in microfibre
  • Highlight components and controls in Gold Bronze
  • Highlights in Gold Bronze in head restraints 

Interior Design Suite – Amido

  • Seat covers, instrument panel, centre console, centre armrest and door panel in exclusive, olive leaf-tanned natural leather
  • Highlight components and controls in Gold Bronze
  • Highlights in Gold Bronze in head restraints

Interior Design Suite – Castanea

  • Seat covers, instrument panel, centre console, centre armrest and door panel in exclusive, olive leaf-tanned natural leather
  • Highlight components and controls in Gold Bronze
  • Highlights in Gold Bronze in head restraints

Alloy wheel program 

Three 22-inch wheel designs are available for iX M60 at no cost to the customer. One wheel design, the 22-inch M aerodynamic wheel 1023 Bicolour Titanium Bronze 3D polished buff, is new and will be added to the iX line-up in time for the iX M60’s arrival.

Option packages  

Comfort Package: $3500

  • Steering Wheel Heating
  • Active Seat Ventilation, front seats
  • Heat Comfort Package; includes:
    – Seat heating, front and rear
    – Armrest heating, centre console
    – Armrest heating, front and rear doors
    – Heated instrument panel lower section, beneath steering wheel and glove box lid
    – Heated front and rear door panels, upper trim

2022 BMW iX model line-up, technical specifications and charging times 

Variant Power Torque 0-100km/h (sec) Battery
(kWh)
Range
(up to km)
Consumption
(kWh/100km)
xDrive40 240kW 630Nm 6.1 77

 

420
(ADR 81/02)
22.5 $135,900
xDrive40 Sport 240kW 630Nm 6.1 77

 

420
(ADR 81/02)
22.5 $141,900
xDrive50 Sport 385kW 765Nm 4.6 112

 

620
(ADR 81/02)
23 $169,900
M60 455kW 1100Nm 3.8 112 566
(WLTP)
TBC $222,900

All prices plus on road costs

Charging type xDrive40 xDrive50 M60
Max. DC fast charge 150kW 200kW 200kW
Range from 10 min public charging station @ max. DC fast charge
From battery charge of 10%
>95km 150km 150km
Public charging 150kW/200kW max. DC (10-80% charge) 31min 35min 35min
Public charging 50kW DC (0-80% charge) 1h23 1h51 1h51
BMW i Wallbox Plus; 11kW AC three-phase 0-100% charge 7h15 10h45 10h45

Note: All charging times listed in table are approximate