Last year, BMW tested its electric iNext SUVs in the chilly northern environs of Arjeplug, Sweden (watch the video if you need a reminder). The next stage of the testing took the iNext to the Kalahari Desert of South Africa.
The engineer crew tries to establish how well the powertrain, the suspension, the body, the interior, the safety systems and the on-board electronics perform in hot climates. The AWD off-roader has to be capable of riding on sand, gravel and other challenging terrains. The extreme heat puts high demands on the HVAC system and the traction battery cooling system. The scorching sun may damage inferior trim materials, and prolonged use of a car in the desert inevitably leads to its degradation due to the sand penetrating the transmission, so superb sand insulation is required.
The iNext will be BMW’s first all-electric vehicle to boast an SAE Level 3 autopilot and a permanent broadband connection to the Internet. Its uniquely shaped steering wheel does not obscure the innovative curved dash screen, and its smart windows can change opacity on the fly. As for the range, the company promises around 600 kilometers (373 miles).
If all goes well, the BMW iNext will enter production next year in Dingolfing, Germany.