by BMW has announced a future version of its iX3 electric crossover with an extended wheelbase. The car is being developed specifically for the Chinese market, as emphasized by its slogan: “in China, for China, and together with China.” The main expected innovations include:
Competitive Battle and Features
The new model is created to compete with the long-wheelbase electric version of the Mercedes-Benz GLC. Upon its launch, the long-wheelbase iX3 will become the first model on BMW’s new Neue Klasse platform with such a modification. Thanks to the extension, the total wheelbase will be 3005 mm, even exceeding that of the X5 model. BMW promises this will provide significantly improved comfort for rear-seat passengers and overall cabin spaciousness.
Technologies for the Chinese Market
Adaptation for China is not limited to structural changes. BMW has developed a special “Chinese derivative” version of the X operating system, in which about 70% of the software is created by local engineers. The navigation system was developed jointly with the Chinese company Amap, and the intelligent personal assistant uses large language models from Alibaba and DeepSeek.
Furthermore, BMW is collaborating with the company Momenta to create driver assistance systems specifically adapted to local traffic conditions. These systems will be optimized for complex urban environments, highways, and long-distance travel across China.
Range and Fast Charging
Details of the powertrain have not yet been disclosed, but it is known that the iX3 Long Wheelbase will receive an 800-volt electric architecture, cylindrical battery cells, and sixth-generation eDrive technology. The car promises fast charging capability of up to 400 kW and a range according to the Chinese CLTC cycle of over 900 kilometers.
A 10-minute charge can restore over 400 kilometers of range, and a full battery charge from 10% to 80% will take about 21 minutes.
Performance and Global Availability
Full information about the model will appear closer to the premiere. The European version of the iX3 is equipped with a 108.7 kWh battery and all-wheel drive, producing 463 hp. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h takes 4.9 seconds. It is unknown whether the long-wheelbase version will have similar specifications, but BMW states there is a special chassis and suspension tuning for China, designed to provide an ideal balance between comfort and stability.
Although the main market for the iX3 Long Wheelbase is China, the model is also planned to be supplied to some other countries, including India, Indonesia, Thailand, and Malaysia.
The presentation of the long-wheelbase iX3 demonstrates how seriously BMW takes the world’s largest automotive market. Creating a model considering local technology partnerships, road characteristics, and customer preferences is a key strategy for competing with local manufacturers and global rivals. The success of this model could determine the further development of other “long-wheelbase” electric models from the brand for different regions of the world.
