BMW M rolls out its first all-electric performance SUV

BMW M has come out with the first battery-powered off-roader in its history: the iX M60, which is said to take the best from the worlds of the i, X, and M vehicles. The production is set to start in Dingolfing soon, with the first deliveries due in June 2022.

The new iX SUV brings 619 metric horsepower (610 hp / 455 kW) to the table, out of which 489 PS (482 hp / 360 kW) come from the rear-mounted motor. The suspension benefits from multiple tweaks, as do the on-board electronic systems. There is a new drive mode called Sport and a launch control function that temporarily boosts torque to 1,100 Nm (811 lb-ft), reducing sprint time to 3.8 seconds. Outside of this mode, the torque maxes out at 1,015 Nm (750 lb-ft).

With a top speed of 250 km/h (155 mph), the new flagship is 50 km/h (31 mph) faster than the iX xDrive 50, making it the fastest modern BMW EV. The engineering team proudly points out that the acceleration gain is virtually linear throughout the entire launch, from zero and all the way up to the top speed.

Optioned with the largest 111.5-kWh traction battery, the iX M60 offers up to 566 km (351 miles) of WLTP-rated driving range. Its predecessor, the iX xDrive 50, gets a superior 630 km (391 miles) from the same battery capacity. Charging from 10 to 80 percent full takes 35 minutes, provided that the power source is good enough.

Standard equipment includes adaptive air suspension with load-based automatic ride height; the car will forcibly adjust clearance if a certain load threshold is reached. Also on the standard list are M performance brakes with blue calipers, wheels sized up to 22 inches across, bronze exterior accents, sport seats, a black top, the Digital Cockpit package, a voice-controlled infotainment system, active seat ventilation and a Bowers & Wilkins audio system.

Prices are pending.