Why the long grille? BMW iX debuts at 2021 Shanghai Auto Show

Making its world premiere at the 2021 Shanghai Auto Show is the 2021 BMW iX in its series-production form. With its unmissable kidney grille, the iX is an SAV (Sports Activity Vehicle) similar in size to a BMW X5.

Having debuted digitally last year, one of the highlights of the BMW iX is its reported range of over 600 km on the WLTP cycle.

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Two variants are showcased at the Shanghai Auto Show, namely the BMW iX xDrive50 and BMW iX xDrive40. Both variants are all-wheel-drive, but the xDrive 50 delivers more power and has a longer range.

The massive kidney grill provides more than just a visual shock. It actually serves as an intelligence panel with integrated sensors, camera and radar technology for advanced driver assistance systems.

Available on the BMW iX are extremely high level of computing power for data processing, extremely powerful sensors, 5G capability provides the basis for optimised automated driving and parking functions.

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The iX also showcases BMW Shy Tech which makes functions/features invisible when not in use.

Part of Shy Tech on the BMW iX are flush-fitted door openers activated at the touch of a button, sensors integrated out of view, speakers integrated out of sight, and intricately styled air vents.

The BMW iX is also 5G-capable, enabling fast and reliable transfer of large quantities of data between the vehicle and the BMW Cloud. The 5G connectivity also enables seamless digital services from Tencent which are already integrated in the BMW iX.

This means that apps like WeChat can be operated in an extremely user-friendly fashion via the on-board iDrive system, and are viewed on the BMW Curved Display in the familiar way.

Finally making a physical premiere, the iX is due to launch in China later this year.

Also Read: 2021 BMW iX is an X5-sized EV with 600 km range, 500 PS, and a massive grille that it doesn't need

Earlier digital premiere of the BMW iX: