BMW has launched the new iX3 in South Korea, marking the market debut of the first series-production model based on the Neue Klasse architecture. The electric SUV combines BMW’s sixth-generation eDrive technology, an 800-volt system, up to 611 kilometres of range and charging power of up to 400 kW.Image: BMWThe new iX3 is the first BMW electric vehicle to use an 800-volt architecture. In the Korean market, the system supports charging power of between 350 and 400 kW. BMW says the battery can be charged from 10 to 80 per cent in approximately 21 minutes, while a ten-minute charging session can add up to 250 kilometres of range according to Korean certification standards. Under the WLTP cycle, the same charging period corresponds to up to 372 kilometres of additional range.For South Korea, the iX3 achieves a certified driving range of up to 611 kilometres on a single charge. BMW also quotes a WLTP range of up to 805 kilometres.The model launches exclusively as the iX3 50 xDrive. The dual-motor all-wheel-drive system delivers 469 hp and 65.8 kgm of torque, enabling acceleration from 0 to 100 kph in 4.9 seconds.The iX3 is also the first production vehicle to feature BMW’s sixth-generation eDrive system. At its core is a newly developed high-voltage battery using cylindrical cells. According to the company, the new cell chemistry and packaging increase energy density by 20 per cent, while also enabling a 30 per cent improvement in charging performance and driving range compared with the previous generation.BMW has adopted a cell-to-pack design, integrating the battery cells directly into the battery pack. The pack itself is structurally integrated into the vehicle body using what BMW calls a ‘Pack to Open Body’ concept. The company says this approach improves packaging efficiency, reduces weight and increases torsional rigidity, contributing to both efficiency and driving dynamics.Beyond the electric drivetrain, the iX3 introduces BMW’s new software and vehicle control architecture. Four high-performance computers, referred to by BMW as ‘Superbrains,’ independently manage vehicle dynamics, driver assistance systems, infotainment and core vehicle functions. BMW states that the processing capability is up to 20 times greater than that of previous vehicle generations.The driving dynamics system is centred on the new ‘Heart of Joy’ control unit, which integrates acceleration, steering, braking and energy recuperation functions into a single system. BMW says this allows faster and more precise responses while improving stability, traction and regenerative braking performance.The iX3 also debuts BMW Panoramic iDrive, a new cockpit concept featuring BMW Panoramic Vision, which projects driving information across the entire width of the windscreen between the A-pillars. The system is complemented by a 3D head-up display and a central touchscreen angled 17.5 degrees towards the driver.BMW Korea is offering the iX3 in SE, M Sport and M Sport Pro trim levels. Prices start at 79.9 million won (€45,600) for the SE variant and rise to 91.9 million won (€52,400) for the M Sport Pro. Deliveries are scheduled to begin on 6 July.bmwgroup.com (in Korean), koreatimes.co.kr