BMW has recently unveiled its new iX xDrive50 in India, broadening the company's electric vehicle (EV) offerings in the subcontinent. This enhanced-performance model builds upon the preceding xDrive40 variant of the iX and has climbed to the top of the price scale as the most expensive SUV or crossover from BMW in India.
Going up against industry leaders, this newly-unveiled model faces stiff competition with similar offerings from Mercedes-Benz EQE SUV, Audi e-tron, Audi Q8 e-tron, and Jaguar i-Pace. This newest offering follows closely on the heels of the launch of the iX1, an electrified X1 SUV, in the Asian subcontinent.
Driving this model out of the showroom will set buyers back by approximately Rs. 1.4 Cr (ex-sh), with the high-spec iX xDrive50 offered by the CBU (Completely Built-Up) route. Its exterior is available in several different colours, including Mineral White, Phytonic Blue, Black Sapphire, Aventurine Red, and Oxide Grey, while an alternative 'Individual Storm Bay Metallic' option offers even more customization. Inside, vegan leather upholstery is available in either Oyster or Mocha colour schemes. If, however, one prefers genuine leather upholstery, an optional 'Interior Design Suite' is available.
Visually, the car continues the powerful design language of its predecessor, the xDrive40 variant. Standout exterior features include the new BMW kidney grille, frameless windows, 22-inch alloys, a 3D bonnet, rectangular wheel arches, one-piece LED tail lights, and a flared shoulder area. Moreover, the iX showcases the narrowest matrix LED headlights of any BMW model, with the option of upgrading to BMW Laserlight.
One is sure to appreciate the spacious interior, with its impressive single-piece curved screen that dominates the dashboard, displaying both infotainment and instrumentation. The comprehensive list of features includes a hexagonal steering wheel, a Sky Lounge Panorama Glass Roof with electrochromic function, massaging seats with leather upholstery, ambient lighting, active seat ventilation, seat heating, and practical 40:20:40 split seats with a massive 1,750L boot.
The iX xDrive50 is much more than just an attractive model; functionality and performance are of paramount importance too. The dashboard’s curved single-piece glass holds a 14.9-inch infotainment screen and a 12.3-inch digital instrument screen running BMW iDrive OS 8.5. Additional features include a head-up display, BMW Maps with augmented reality, a virtual assistant, gesture control, wireless charging and smartphone connectivity, an 18-speaker Harman Kardon system, as well as the ADAS suite in the form of BMW Driving Assistant and BMW Driving Assistant Professional.
The iX xDrive50 features a powertrain unit with twin electric motors and single-speed transmission, courtesy of the fifth-generation of BMW's eDrive Technology. The high performance is noticeable, with an output of 523 bhp and 765 Nm torque allowing it to reach a speed of 100 km/h in a mere 4.6 seconds.
Comparing the iX xDrive50 with its predecessor, the xDrive40, the biggest difference is the upgraded battery - a sizeable 111.5 kWh unit that promises a range of up to 635km on a single charge. This updated and larger battery merits up to 22 kW AC charging and 195 kW of DC fast charging capabilities, which significantly enhances driving comfort via BMW’s admired Adaptive 2-axle air suspension.
Vikram Pawah, the President of BMW Group India, spoke highly of the new model, highlighting it as the highest selling luxury EV in India. He expressed confidence that the launch of iX xDrive50 would not only impress but also elevate one’s electric driving experience.
Packaged with unique style, sustainable standards, and state-of-the-art fast charging capabilities, the new BMW iX xDrive50 caters to both urban and long-distance driving requirements. The president concluded his statement by emphasizing BMW's commitment to enhancing electric mobility through its progressive expansion of its electric vehicle range, and the unveiling of innovative products like the BMW iX xDrive50.
The iconic BMW M3 is poised to enter its seventh generation, embracing a bold new strategy that blends tradition with innovation. In a move that caters to diverse customer preferences, BMW will offer both petrol-powered and electric variants of the esteemed M3, ensuring the classic driving experience endures while embracing a sustainable future.
Defying industry trends, BMW has chosen to retain the traditional petrol-powered M3, recognizing the timeless appeal of internal combustion engines. This decision will delight enthusiasts who crave the visceral thrill of a petrol engine. The classic M3's continued presence ensures that drivers seeking an authentic driving experience will still have options.
Simultaneously, BMW is forging ahead with an electric version of the M3, aligning with global efforts to reduce carbon emissions. This eco-friendly variant will appeal to environmentally conscious drivers who prioritize sustainability without compromising performance. The electric M3 promises to deliver exceptional performance while minimizing its ecological footprint.
By integrating both powertrain options, BMW offers consumers flexibility and choice, balancing performance with environmental considerations. This innovative approach:
As BMW embarks on this dual-path journey, the question remains: will the traditional allure of a petrol engine compete or coexist harmoniously with its innovative electric counterpart? Only time will tell, but BMW's versatile and dynamic offerings position the brand to lead the way.
BMW's bold move sets a precedent for the industry, demonstrating that tradition and innovation can coexist. As the automotive landscape evolves, the BMW M3's dual-path journey will undoubtedly influence the direction of performance and sustainability in the years to come.
Alpine has made a groundbreaking debut with the Alpenglow Hy6, a hydrogen-powered sports car that embodies the brand's commitment to sustainable and high-performance technology. Premiering at the 2024 24 Hours of Le Mans, this innovative concept showcases Alpine's dedication to merging eco-friendly technology with dynamic performance.
The Alpenglow Hy6 boasts a powerful 3.5-liter V6 engine, fueled by hydrogen, producing an impressive 740bhp. This twin-turbocharged engine features:
Built on a lightweight LMP3 carbon chassis, the Alpenglow Hy6 balances speed and efficiency. Key design features include:
Alpine's VP of Motorsports, Bruno Famin, emphasized the brand's dedication to hydrogen innovation: "Developing the new Hy6 V6 engine showcases our commitment to hydrogen research, paving the way for high-performance motorsport applications."
As Alpine explores adapting this technology for mass production, the Alpenglow Hy6 concept represents a significant step towards reducing carbon emissions in motorsport.
The Alpine Alpenglow Hy6 is a testament to the potential of hydrogen-powered sports cars, blending high-performance technology with sustainable innovation. As Alpine continues to push boundaries, the future of eco-friendly motorsport looks brighter than ever.
The automotive world is abuzz with excitement as five popular vehicles prepare to undergo significant generational upgrades. These overhauls promise enhanced comfort, advanced safety features, and sleek designs. Let's dive into the details of the upcoming: 1 Maruti Suzuki Dzire 2 Honda Amaze 3 Hyundai Venue 4 Toyota Fortuner 5 Mahindra Bolero
Cutting-edge design Advanced technological integration Enhanced safety measures Stay tuned for updates as these highly anticipated vehicles hit the market.
Citroen Unveils Next-Gen C5 Aircross Concept: A Glimpse into the Future of SUV Design Citroen has officially unveiled the C5 Aircross concept at the 2024 Paris Motor Show, offering a tantalizing preview of the next-generation C5 Aircross, slated for release in 2025. This bold new design marks a significant shift towards a more assertive and modern aesthetic in Citroen's popular SUV lineup.
####The upcoming C5 Aircross will be the first Citroen model to utilize the advanced STLA Medium platform, engineered to support:
The new SUV measures 4.65 meters in length, providing ample space for five passengers. Although interior details are still under wraps, enthusiasts can expect:
While specific mechanical details are yet to be released, the current-generation C5 Aircross offers:
In India, the existing C5 Aircross boasts:
The Citroen C5 Aircross concept heralds a new era in SUV design, blending style, sophistication, and advanced technology. With its STLA Medium platform and enhanced dimensions, this next-generation model promises to deliver a superior driving experience. Stay tuned for updates on the production-spec C5 Aircross, slated for release in 2025. Source: 2024 Paris Motor Show
Mini's latest electric powerhouses, the John Cooper Works (JCW) Electric and JCW Aceman, stole the spotlight at the Paris Motor Show 2024. These high-performance models elevate Mini's electric lineup, blending thrilling dynamics with sustainable mobility.
The JCW Electric and JCW Aceman boast a potent 254bhp electric motor, paired with a sporty suspension setup, delivering the signature go-kart feeling Mini fans adore. Both models share a 49.2kWh (net) battery, yielding impressive driving ranges:
Exterior designs prioritize aerodynamics and aesthetic appeal:
Inside, the JCW theme continues:
Mini has announced plans for a petrol-powered JCW Mini Cooper, with technical details forthcoming. Deliveries of the electric JCW versions are slated to begin in international markets by April 2025.
The JCW Electric and JCW Aceman solidify Mini's commitment to electric mobility while maintaining its iconic sporty performance and design. Stay tuned for updates on Mini's latest innovations and the forthcoming petrol-powered JCW model.
The Oilstainlab HF-11, a revolutionary supercar, has made its debut, pushing the boundaries of performance, innovation, and design. Limited to just 25 units worldwide, this exclusive vehicle is priced at USD 1.8 million (Rs 15.13 crore) for the flat-six engine variant and USD 2.3 million (Rs 19.33 crore) for the electric model.
The Oilstainlab HF-11 is a masterpiece of performance, engineering, and design, poised to make a significant impact in the luxury supercar market. With its pioneering swappable powertrain, advanced features, and exclusive production run, this supercar is a coveted piece for enthusiasts and collectors.
Jeep India has unveiled the facelifted Jeep Meridian, introducing a new 5-seater variant and advanced features to enhance its premium SUV offerings. Bookings are now open with an initial deposit of Rs 50,000.
At the recent 'We, Robot' event, Tesla CEO Elon Musk revealed the CyberCab, a revolutionary autonomous self-driving robotaxi poised to transform urban mobility. This futuristic vehicle embodies Tesla's innovative spirit, showcasing a unique blend of sustainability, efficiency, and cutting-edge technology.
Tesla is on the cusp of transitioning from supervised Full Self-Driving (FSD) to fully unsupervised version, with deployment anticipated in Texas and California by next year. The CyberCab represents a pivotal move towards achieving completely autonomous driving.
Elon Musk projects autonomous vehicles to achieve safety levels 10-20 times greater than human-operated cars. Operating costs are estimated at USD 0.20 per mile (approximately Rs 16.81), significantly lower than city buses (USD 1 per mile, roughly Rs 84.06).
Tesla is also developing Optimus, a versatile robot capable of performing various tasks, priced between USD 20,000 to USD 30,000 (about Rs 16.81 lakh to Rs 25.22 lakh).
The Tesla CyberCab represents a bold step in redefining urban mobility, prioritizing sustainability and efficiency. As autonomous driving approaches, the implications for traffic congestion and emissions reduction are profound, promising a cleaner, more connected future for city travel.
