The BMW iX3 was tested for its real range - with a mountain drive and a track lap

BMW organized a test drive with the new electric SUV BMW iX3 on public roads in Romania. The route led from Bucharest to the mountain resort Poiana-Brasov and back, including several laps on the racetrack.

According to official information, the range of the BMW iX3 after the WLTP cycle is 805 km. However, actual values, as with most electric cars, may vary. Although WLTP is considered a more accurate standard compared to the outdated NEDC, the results are often optimistic.

To verify the actual values, BMW Romania organized a test without tricks in economical driving. The route included highways, national roads, and mountain drives. Additionally, the participants completed a lap on the Prejmer Raceway.

The cars were on the road for a total of about six hours and covered around 400 km. The tests took place at air temperatures from 0 to 10 °C. None of the vehicles needed charging of the 108.7 kWh battery.

Energy efficiency was also recorded by the journalists. After the drive, energy consumption was between 17.2 and 21.0 kWh per 100 km. After the test drive, the remaining battery charge was 25–31%.

If the vehicles had continued driving until completely discharged, the real range would have been about 500 to 600 km. This is significantly less than the official 805 km according to WLTP, but comparable to the range of vehicles with gasoline engines.

However, diesel versions continue to lead in travel range without stops. Therefore, BMW does not plan to abandon the BMW X3 20d xDrive and BMW X3 30d xDrive models.

Currently, the BMW iX3 is considered one of the most efficient electric cars of the brand. However, this title might only be temporary. On March 18, the premiere of the new electric sedan BMW i3 is expected, which could surpass the iX3 in terms of range thanks to a more aerodynamic body and lower weight, if it receives the same battery.

In the future, the model range could be expanded with more affordable versions of the BMW iX3 40 and BMW i3 40. They are expected to be equipped with a battery with a capacity of 82.6 kWh instead of 108.7 kWh. This will reduce the range, but lower the cost and weight of the vehicle.

Theoretically, the largest range could be achieved by a rear-wheel-drive version with an electric motor and a larger battery. However, whether BMW plans such a configuration is unknown.

Source: BMW Blog