BMW has been in the electric game for a while, so it would track, then, that their latest fully-electric vehicle, the BMW iX xDrive50, should be exceptional. Ryan O’Connor investigates further…
In 2020, the BMW i3 turned 10. Yes, you read that correctly – it’s been a whole decade since BMW introduced their BMW i electric sub brand to the world, launching with it the i3 family hatchback sort of thing and the i8 “supercar’. All those years on, both of those cars still stand out from the crowd as being futuristic and forward-thinking. Being early adopters on the mainstream electric scene has allowed BMW to develop and hone their electric division while dabbling in other electrified models here and there such as the X5 xDrive40e PHEV and the ‘iPerformance’ range which attempted to add more appeal to electrification, hybrids and downsizing by way of adding a performance element to the positioning of the vehicles.
The iX, then, could be considered to be the culmination of a decade of BMW appearing to lead the EV pack, most certainly in the realm of ‘premium’ brands, at least. It’s design may be divisive but there’s no denying that it has presence. It also has the most exquisite interior appointed with the most impressive materials and finishes. It’s powertrains are impressive, too, with the range starting at the BMW iX xDrive40 and, locally at least, stretching to the BMW iX xDrive50. The iX M60 has been unveiled, supposedly sharing its powertrain with Rolls-Royce’s upcoming Spectre EV, but nothing has been confirmed just yet.
Ryan O’Conner takes the opportunity to chat to E Movement’s Iain Banner, one of the people responsible for bringing Formula E to South Africa. They chat about electrification, motorsport and the interesting intersection between the two.
Head to the video below to see what Ryan O’Connor has to say about the best the BMW currently has to offer in terms of sustainable motoring.
