The next generation of BMW electric vehicles will come equipped with new technology, allowing them to travel up to 620 miles on a single charge. The next generation of Gen6 batteries, will be released in 2025.
What are the difference between a Gen5 and Gen6 batteries?
These cylindrical cells are more efficient than previous models, meaning better range and charging rates for drivers.
The batteries are now cylindrical rather than flat, prismatic cells. Gen6 batteries are believed to give drivers 30% or more range than the current Gen5.
However, it has been said that BMW won’t go over 620 miles (1000km) of range. Even though it is possible, they don’t believe it is necessary to have such a long range.
The charge time for DC-powered BMWs are set be improved by up to 30%, allowing the cars to handle ultra-rapid charging of around 270kW.
It’s estimated that the Gen6 batteries pack could weigh 10-20% less than the existing Gen5 batteries, which typically weigh around 300kg.
The upcoming Gen6 cylindrical cells will be made using a proprietary BMW technology. They are 46mm in diameter and 95mm or 120mm tall, depending on the variant. They will come from Chinese battery makers CATL and EV, and they will be an improvement of the conventional lithium ion chemistry used in today’s EVs.
The change in cell shape has allowed for a new, slimmer battery-pack design. This design makes it possible to install the battery pack in a variety of ways, including making it an integral part of the car’s structure.
More information about EV batteries.
What is BMW’s plan?
BMW plans to build six new battery plants in Canada, China, Europe, Mexico and the US near existing car-production facilities to reduce transportation needs and keep up with Gen6 battery demand.
Not only will the new changes save time and hassle for consumers, but BMW estimates that production costs will fall by around 50%. This is significant because currently, the battery accounts for 40% of the cost of an EV.
The changes BMW is making, which include transitioning to completely renewable energy in all of its facilities and those of its third-party suppliers, are expected to result in a 60% reduction in the CO2 created during production.
Recyclability is also a focus for BMW and they are still aiming for a cyclical life with the metals in their batteries.
With the new battery, additional details on the long-term environmental benefits of Gen6 batteries will be made available in BMW’s “battery carbon footprint declaration” that is planned to begin in 2024.
After 2025, all BMW Group brands––from Rolls-Royce to BMW to Mini––will use Gen6 batteries.
BMWs Newest Electric Vehicles in the UK
With the new iX1, iX3, i4 and iX models, BMW quadrupled the number of electric cars it produces. However, this isn’t the first time the company has shown an interest in EVs; over the past decade or so, they have released a number of other innovative offerings.
BMW iX1
The BMW iX1 is a new electric vehicle that will join the BMW iX3 and iX in the company’s growing electric SUV family. This vehicle is due to be on sale very soon (late 2022). It will have a range of up to 272 miles and cost around £50,000.
The new BMW iX1 will look strikingly similar to the X1, but it’s a lot more reserved than other SUVs from BMW.
The grilles aren’t quite as large or in-your-face as on a BMW iX, but they are bigger than those found on the old cars. The iX1 also gets some unique blue trim around the lower bumper area to help differentiate it from other models.
The new iX1 comes with optional 20-inch wheels and its doors have straighter creases instead of the curved ones found on the older X1 model.
The back end includes brake lights that are both wider and more angular than before, giving the car a look that suggests it means business. The bumper also gets some additional blue trim.
The new BMW iX1 features a sleek and simple cabin with noticeably fewer buttons than the older model.
The BMW comes with a gigantic curved infotainment system that has a 10.25-inch central touchscreen. It also has an 10.7-inch digital drivers display. Apple Car Play, Android Auto, and the ‘Hey BMW’ voice assistant are all standard features on every model in the range.
The voice commands come in handy, since the only buttons in the cabin are on the steering wheel and a volume knob on the centre console.
The most notable change to the interior design is its modernity, with a floating console and wide central air vent that makes it appear as if it was scaled-down from a BMW iX.
BMW iX3
The BMW iX3 is a great all-around electric SUV. It’s just as practical as the regular X3, while its more understated appearance will appeal to buyers who don’t want to advertise their eco-friendly credentials. The interior is very well done. It’s also relatively inexpensive to operate, even though the price tag of over £60,000 might be tough to swallow at first.
The BMW iX3 is distinguished by its grilles, which are black. The distinctive grilles of the standard vehicle have been filled in while the alloy wheels are a bit more aerodynamic. Blue accents on the BMW iX3 include highlights along the doors and on the rear diffuser.
There aren’t any drastic changes inside, but most people will find that acceptable given how luxurious the cabin is. The X3’s cabin is an attractive design and has quality materials. It also has lots of features that are practical and well-executed.
The BMW iX3 is a premium SUV with a list price of approximately £60,000. It comes standard with loads of features. Moreover, it’s initially available in two models: the Premier Edition and the Premier Edition Pro.
You can choose from four different metallic BMW body colours- black, white, blue, or grey. You can also pick between two exterior trims- brushed aluminium or black high gloss.
As standard, the 20 inch aerodynamic wheels come along with an automatic tailgate, as well as adaptive suspension and panoramic sunroof.
The ambiance lighting and leather seats with electric adjustment come standard, as well as the top-of-the-line BMW Live Cockpit Professional media system.
This comprises of a 10.25-inch touchscreen display on the dashboard and 12.3-inch digital dials placed behind the steering wheel for your convenience.
Many buyers will opt for the BMW iX3 Premier Edition Pro which adds a premium sound system. A head-up display and BMW’s showy gesture control feature. It also comes with an unusual but cool sound effects, along with Parking Assistant Plus and automatic high-beam assist.
What else does the BMW iX3 offer?
It has an 80kWh battery powering an electric motor on the rear axle. The official range is 279 miles, for example; this covers the driving distance from Newcastle to London.
With a suitable rapid charger, the BMW iX3 can be charged from empty to 80% in just over half an hour.
BMW has said that 62 miles can be added to its range in just 10 minutes. While a 7kW wall box should be able to charge the iX3 overnight. Although the exact figures are yet to be confirmed.
It’s not the quickest electric vehicle in production (0-62mph takes 6.8 seconds), but it’s fast enough to join a motorway without any issues.
BMW i4
The all-new BMW i4 is an electric vehicle that is now available for sale in the UK .
The i4 is a four-door Gran Coupe. It has a range of up to 373 miles and is able to reach 0-62mph in 4.0 seconds.
The i4 is based on the same platform as the BMW 3 Series and 4 Series. Meaning it has a similar size and dimensions. However, it is significantly lighter thanks to the use of carbon fiber in its construction.
The exterior design of the i4 is very sleek and modern, with a large grille that houses the charging port. The car also features slim headlights and a sporty rear end.
Inside, the i4 has a minimalist interior with a wide central touchscreen display. The dashboards in both the front and rear seats are completely digital, and there are no physical buttons or controls.
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