Concept CUV Previews Third Dedicated BMW i Model

BMW’s i sub-brand previews the next model in its dedicated range of all-electric and plug-in hybrid-electric vehicles with the unveiling of the Vision iNext concept.

The new CUV is set to become the third BMW i model when it goes on sale in 2021, following the gasoline-electric i8 and the battery-powered i3, both introduced in 2013, in a role BMW says will position it as its “new technology flagship.”

The last of four electric-powered concepts to have been revealed since the German automaker’s centenary in 2016, the Vision iNext is described as an “innovation concept” that provides the building blocks for the future, Chairman Harald Kruger says.

“BMW now has 10 years of experience with electric mobility in both small- and large-scale production,” he says. “The next step is the complete in-car integration of the fields of autonomy, connectivity, electric and services.”

Kruger says the new i model answers the question: “What does a vehicle look like which no longer needs to be driven by a person, but can be if desired?”

The description supports earlier statements by senior BMW officials that the next i model will feature new autonomous-driving technologies in combination with newly developed connectivity solutions, revised electric-drive systems and a series of new app-based services.

Rolling on 24-in. wheels, the iNext is claimed to hint at how BMW i’s next model, largely expected to be badged the i5, will look when it goes into production at the company’s Dingolfing, Germany, plant in less than three years.

The exterior incorporates design touches already showcased on the Vision Next 100, Vision Dynamics and Vision iX3 concepts.

Key elements include a new interpretation of BMW’s classic kidney grille that has been blanked off for added aerodynamic efficiency, headlamps set underneath the leading edge of the hood, prominent wheel arches, a side-window graphic without traditional B-pillars, a sloping tailgate featuring a larger spoiler to smooth airflow across the rear end and thin OLED taillamps positioned horizontally to emphasize the new concept’s width.

BMW envisions using rear-view cameras in place of traditional mirrors, as included on the new concept, on the production version of the Vision iNext.

BMW’s design team, led by Adrian van Hooydonk, hints the upcoming sister model to the i3 and i8 also may receive large coach-style doors hinged at both the front and rear to provide easy access to its interior.

Inside (below), the Vision iNext showcases BMW’s ideas for fully autonomous vehicles with a driving position offering the choice between Boost mode and Ease mode – the former designed for those wanting to drive themselves, the latter conceived for those seeking to be driven.

The dashboard uses natural materials, including open-pore wood accents that von Hooydonk says are designed to resemble a floating coffee table. It is topped by two high-definition monitors.

While the Vision iNext concept seats five, senior BMW officials say the production version of the new BMW will accommodate up to seven.

BMW is holding back on detailed information pertaining to the autonomous-driving technology, connectivity functions, electric-drive system and services planned for its new i model.

When it goes on sale in 2021, the production version of the Vision iNext will line up alongside a revised version of the i8 and i3 as well as a range of electric-powered core models, including the new all-electric Mini planned for introduction in 2019 and the X3-based iX3 revealed in concept-car form at the 2018 Beijing auto show and set for production in 2020 boasting “more than 400 km” (248 miles) of range on the new WLTP test cycle.

By 2025, BMW plans to offer 25 electrified models, including 12 with all-electric drive.