BMW INext EV to Boast 435 Mile Range, Level 3 Autonomy

BMW will release a series-production EV in 2021 with 435 miles of range, according to a new report.

As reported by AutoExpress, BMW will show an electric SUV concept later this year called the iNext. That vehicle, which will be roughly the same size and shape as a BMW X5, will preview a production version that will arrive in a few years with SAE Level 3 autonomous technology and a maximum electric driving range of 435 miles.

“I can promise you that this year you will see something and touch something – you need to let people experience what is coming,” BMW i product boss Alexander Kotouc told AE. “It’s groundbreaking; the iNEXT will be more of the shape and size of an X5. It will have a completely different interior and be able to seat five people.”

The iNext will ride on BMW’s new modular architecture, which will underpin a variety of future BMWs including fossil fuel cars, plug-ins and EVs. The platform will allow for a variety of battery pack sizes ranging from 60 kWh to 120 kWh. The platform also allows for an electric motor to be fitted on both axles, while a triple-motor setup could be on offer as well. The iNext will apparently be available in 134 hp, 255 hp, 335 hp and 443 hp versions. Additionally, the proposed triple-motor version could make up to 800 hp.

SEE ALSO: BMW has Sold Over 100K Electrified Vehicles in 2017

While the iNext will launch with Level 3 autonomy, which may requires the driver to take over the vehicle’s controls for certain tasks, it will be upgraded to Level 4 and Level 5 over the course of its lifecycle. It’s not clear when the Level 4 system may be implemented, but with the iNext not set to arrive for another three years, a full self-driving version is probably about 5-7 years out at the absolute least.

We’ll learn more about the iNext when BMW shows the concept later this year.

[Source: AutoExpress]
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