By Steve & Tamami Laser
Last year, BMW announced that its new iX xDrive50 all-electric Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV) will join the lineup for the 2022 model year. Today, a high-performance sibling, called BMW iX M60, makes its debut during a digital press conference from Germany for the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas. The U.S. launch for iX M60 is expected early this summer as a 2023 model.
The BMW iX M60 signals a new milestone in the 50-year history of the M brand, as it heads deeper into the market for electrified performance vehicles. The iX M60 delivers high-power, dual motor all-wheel-drive, an actuator-based traction control system, and dual-axle air suspension with auto level control.
In the specs department, the iX M60 puts out a combined output of up to 610 bhp and 811 lbs.-ft. of torque (with Launch Control activated), and is said to be capable of 0-60 mph in just 3.6 seconds. That compares to the previously announced iX xDrive50 specs of 516 bhp, 564 lbs.-ft., and 4.4 sec. 0-60.
BMW designed the iX with an aluminum spaceframe and carbon cage to help reduce weight, using carbon-fiber reinforced plastic (CFRP) in the side and rear sections, plus the roof. With the battery pack mounted low in the vehicle, the iX is said to provide “ferocious acceleration,” along with outstanding cornering, handling, and balanced driving characteristics.
As expected of a BMW M model, the iX M60 is filled with high-tech gear, including standard BMW Live Cockpit Professional and BMW Natural Interaction, with the latter allowing both speech and gesture function control. There’s a Bowers & Wilkins Diamond Surround Sound System, Comfort Access, and Radiant Heat Package.
While the iX M60’s air suspension is regulated individually for each wheel, the driver can adjust ride height manually using a button on the center console. The “My Modes” button also offers adaptive control of damper-mapping as part of the overall vehicle settings.
The iX M60 has a standard Sport Package, M Sport Brakes with Blue Calipers, AC and DC Fast Charging, BMW Assist eCall, BMW TeleServices, ConnectedDrive Services, Panoramic Sky Lounge LED Roof, Park Distance Control, Dynamic Cruise Control, Parking Assistant Plus, Surround View with 3D View, and a power tailgate.
Note: Prototype vehicles are shown in this story. Models, specifications, features, and launch timing for future production models are subject to change without notice.
News sources and photos courtesy of BMW of North America, LLC, BMW AG, and BMW M GmbH
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