2021 BMW iNext Could Beat Tesla Model X With A 360-Mile Electric Range

That range comes from a larger battery pack

BMW iNext
[Photos: BMW]

The world of electric cars has long centered around one word: range. Now, BMW is targeting 360 miles of WLTP-cerified range with its upcoming iNext crossover, set to enter production in 2021. The model may wear the iX5 name, and would beat the Tesla Model X Long Range’s 325 miles if BMW ends up hitting its target.

According to an Auto Express piece, the iNext manages longer range thanks to a larger battery pack. The car’s new ‘common platform’ may accommodate a 120 kWh battery pack. It also supports gasoline, diesel and plug-in hybrid powertrains, though the iNext will almost certainly remain a purely electric vehicle. Right now, the Tesla Model X Long Range has a 100 kWh battery pack, allowing a range of up to 325 miles on a single charge.

BMW iNext

Apart from pure range, the BMW iNext will also house the brand’s latest and greatest technology. That includes a floating curved infotainment screen similar to what’s in the Vision iNext concept (shown below). What’s more, BMW aims to make the iNext a showcase for autonomous technology. “People have been asking why we’ve waited so long, but we waited for the next step in technology – it’s not only battery, it’s autonomous driving and it’s also new systems for communication and connection. All this technology will be new in 2021,” said head of BMW’s i division Robert Irlinger.

More recent spy photos show the BMW iNext/iX5 as a more conventional SUV. It shares its footprint with the X5, while still supposedly packing level 3 autonomous capability. We should know more about BMW’s next electric offering in the coming months, so stay tuned for more updates!