The New High-Performance Pure-Electric SAV From BMW

This week BMW announced the brand's first high-performance SAV designed for purely electric mobility, the 2023 BMW iX M60. With a total power output of up to 610 bhp and 811 lb-ft of torque (when Launch Control is activated), and a unique M-enhanced adaptive dual-axle air suspension, it adds an outstanding performance experience to the world of emission-free driving.

By integrating a vehicle concept geared towards sustainability with the design of a modern Sports Activity Vehicle and thrilling dynamic driving characteristics, the BMW iX M60 embodies the best of three worlds; BMW i, the BMW X models and BMW M GmbH.

Full electric mobility with BMW M style starts here.

In Sport Mode with Launch Control engaged, the iX M60 will unleash 610 bhp and 811 lb-ft of instantaneous torque, hitting 60 mph from a standstill in only 3.6 seconds. The intense power delivery of its M-specific electric motor remains virtually constant up to the electronically-limited maximum speed of 155 mph.

The two motors of the BMW iX M60 operate on the principle of a current-energized synchronous machine. That is, instead of permanent magnets, the excitation of the rotor is triggered by the precisely metered supply of electrical energy. This design method makes it possible to completely dispense with the rare earth metals required for magnetic components when manufacturing the rotor.

The M-specific design of the current-energized synchronous machine principle enables the electric motor of the BMW iX M60 - especially in the case of the rear motor - to achieve an extremely high power density. The drive unit is six-phase operated and has a double inverter. This makes it possible to achieve a particularly high increase in peak power, which is available up to high speeds and provides typical BMW M power.

First-ever all-electric SAV from the BMW M brand

The debut of the BMW iX M60 marks a milestone in the history of BMW M GmbH, which began 50 years ago. Together with the BMW i4 M50, it signifies the entry of BMW M into the segment of electrified performance cars. The power and precise control of the electric all-wheel-drive, the highly responsive traction control system, and suspension technology that includes a dual-axle air suspension with automatic level control help emphasize the driving performance that BMW M is known for.

The BMW iX provides an ideal basis for an all-electric SAV with high-performance characteristics. The body structure and suspension design are geared towards combining excellent ride comfort with sporty handling characteristics. The aluminum spaceframe and carbon cage with carbon fiber reinforced plastic (CFRP) in the roof, side and rear sections are an intelligent mix of materials that combines increased rigidity. 

The BMW iX M60's performance, efficiency and range also benefit from its aerodynamic properties, which give it a drag coefficient (Cx) of 0.26. The high-voltage battery is located low in the vehicle's structure and within the wheelbase, lowering the vehicle's center of gravity and ensuring agile handling as well as balanced weight distribution. The overall performance of the BMW iX M60 is not characterized solely by ferocious straight-line acceleration, but also by its outstanding cornering dynamics. The perfectly balanced driving characteristics give the BMW iX M60 a confident and nimble feel at all speeds and provide the driver clear feedback.